Welcome to our blog! I’m Dr. Tom, and I want to make this blog a place where the DTC Instructors and I can share not only the news about Dr. Tom’s Classroom, but also share insights on the Mechanical and Civil PE Exams, the world of mechanical and civil engineering, innovations in education and science, and, occasionally, wine-making.
December 31, 2018
12th Day of Savings...
“If you don’t read my entire testimonial – here is the “bottom line upfront:” Look no further! I passed the exam and a great deal of credit goes to Dr. Tom and the course. If you work the program, watch the lectures, do the problems, prepare the personalized resource notebooks, and use the participant forum…..you will pass the exam. This structure, organization, and commitment are why this program is so successful, and I will be recommending this to my colleagues. Thank you Dr. Tom and your entire staff."
- Neil Martin, PE (LTC (Retired – US Army)), Veolia Water Technologies, Naperville, Illinois
December 30, 2018
11th Day of Savings...
“I am 100% confident saying that without your course, I wouldn't have succeeded with a first-time go. With my work and home life demands, I needed a prep course that told me how, what, and when to study. DTC was perfect in that regard. I walked into my study sessions daily not having to worry about what needed to be accomplished. As a result, I was able to identify all of the test problems, what PRNs to use, and what pass-through to answer them in. Admittedly, I was nervous at first about taking DTC because of all the other more expensive courses, thinking the more expensive the better, but I was obviously wrong. Keep doing great things for future candidates!”
- CPT Chandler Alford, PE, United States Army, Seattle, WA
December 29, 2018
10th Day of Savings...
“I feel like the biggest advantage that your class brings to the table is that you structure all of the information you need in a way that is much easier to find. Even if you are the most well-versed engineer in the world, if you don't have a method in place to quickly find the equation or topic that you are looking for, it can make for a really tough test day. The binders that we made from the class proved to be a lifesaver, and I was able to answer most of the questions simply from them alone. This saved a ton of time as I wasn't constantly flipping through the MERM and the other mountains of books desperately looking for an answer or random equation. I will definitely recommend your class. Thanks for everything!”
- Brandon F., PE, Dallas, TX
December 28, 2018
9th Day of Savings...
“Dr. Tom's methodical approach to preparing for the PE exam helped me to get and stay organized from the very beginning. The extra practice and challenge problems were an excellent compliment to the SMS problems, NCEES practice exam, and MERM. I have no doubt that this class ensured my success on the exam on my first attempt.”
- Nicole DiFidi, PE, Boise, ID
December 27, 2018
8th Day of Savings...
“Dr. Tom’s prep course provided the structure and the solid foundation I needed to pass the PE exam. Learning to quickly identify the type of problem and using Dr. Tom’s back-to-basics approach to problem solving helped ease some of my concerns of taking the exam and feel confident in my ability to do well. I’ve used an in-class prep course before with no success. The quality, exam day references provided, exam day tips and confidence in Dr. Tom’s program makes it easy for me to recommend Dr. Tom’s Classroom. Thanks for getting me over the hump and helping to accomplish a major goal of mine!”
- Clint A., PE, Tulsa, Oklahoma
December 26, 2018
7th Day of Savings...
“I PASSED!!!! Your step by step course really did make all the difference! This was my third attempt at taking this thing. I followed your advice and made sure not to get stuck. Your class was really great because I felt like in every video, you genuinely and sincerely wanted to help us pass this test. Like all great teachers and mentors you made me not want to disappoint you. The course is one of the most reasonably priced course I could find and discovering that it was also so amazing was really a pleasant surprise. Thank you so much. I will definitely recommend your course to others!”
- Erica Kerr, PE, North Las Vegas, NV
December 25, 2018
6th Day of Savings...
“Dr Tom's was an invaluable program. I've been out of school for over 20 years and needed to re-learn a lot of the material. His teaching style took very complex concepts and laid the material out in a straight forward fashion with a systematic approach to solve the problems. His methodology gave me structure for studying that I would not have been able to achieve on my own. His organizational approach to the reference material was a huge time saver and assistance during the exam. Thank you Dr Tom for putting a great program together.”
Lori Van der Voort, PE, Abington, PA
December 24, 2018
5th Day of Savings...
“Your program is absolutely spot on - even with the recent format changes to Thermal and Fluids section - you adapted the program to include compressible flow and combined cycles to perfection. Thank you for building my confidence and staying with us during the prep period. I will totally will recommend your program to my peers.”
Michael Mastice, PE
December 23, 2018
4th Day of Savings...
“I
participated in the 20-Week Review class for the Civil: Water Resources
and Environmental exam. All of the hours put into studying and
developing the materials following the Dr. Tom method paid off as I
passed the exam. One of the critical items to my success was
understanding the test taking method of taking multiple passes and not
allowing myself to become to hung up on any one question. Taking the 20
weeks to absorb the material and develop organized references I believe
was also critical to my success. I will recommend anyone taking the test
in the future to use the Dr. Tom courses, it was worth both my monetary and time investments.”
- Chris Bakey, PE, Cochranville, PA
Through December 31, 2018
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
December 22, 2018
3rd Day of Savings...
“I can't even begin to explain how useful Dr. Tom’s course was in my preparation. Most importantly, the course helps with problem identification which is KEY in passing the exam. Being able to identify what the problem is asking, knowing where to find the right equation and having practice in solving problems is what Dr. Tom's course is all about. There were problems in the exam that I was only able to solve because of information I acquired from Dr. Tom's course. You will be ready to attack the exam after taking his course. Confidence and preparation are huge when going into the exam and Dr. Tom's course will give you that confidence and preparation. Thank you Dr. Tom!”
- Dan, PE, Farmington, Utah
December 21, 2018
2nd Day of Savings...
“I passed the PE exam! DTC was instrumental in my success. Each week is very well organized and left me with virtually no questions. The pace was perfect and the material covered was exactly what I needed to work the majority of the problems on the exam. I found Dr. Tom's Exam Day Companion especially useful during the exam in quickly finding the equations I needed to work the problems. There is a lot time spent on organization of your Personalized Resource Notebooks, but believe me, the time spent is well worth it come exam day. I highly recommend Dr. Tom's Classroom to prepare you for the PE exam!”
- Robert Strong, PE, Tulsa, OK
December 20, 2018
1st Day of Savings...
“Dr. Tom, armed with the method you taught and the organizational tools from your course, I passed on my second try. I attribute the success to calming myself with the discipline and time management learned in your course and the personal reference manual composed and the indexed reference binder you supplied. THE DOCTOR TOM method works!! I just needed to apply it and keep a cool head. Your course was the best. I am extremely grateful. Your course was the reason I passed.”
- A. Hill, PE, Arkansas
December 18, 2018
12 Days of Savings!
Season Greetings from Dr. Tom's Classroom!
To celebrate the season, we're offering 12 days of savings
starting December 20 through 31, 2018
December 20 through 31, 2018
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
December 17, 2018
Achieve the Extraordinary - Jason Savage’s Story
Becoming a licensed PE has opened doors for me, both personally and professionally, beyond what I could have ever imagined as a college student 15 years ago. Honestly, becoming a PE all started by being in the right place at the right time.
As a junior in college, I just happened to be in the Civil Engineering building one evening and noticed a line forming in the lobby. I asked what was going on and found out it was a line to sign up to take the FE exam. I had not strongly considered pursuing my PE license, but after some discussion among my closest friends, we all decided to sign up for the FE. We were planning to work in construction, most likely vertical construction or roadways, and saw PE as just a couple initials behind our name, but what the heck? I passed the FE on the first try, graduated college, and started working in vertical construction.
Even as a young EI working in construction, I had not totally grasped the value of PE licensure in construction. After about 6 months of working full time, I had run into several PEs on the project site and soon realized the value PE licensure offered. I worked in vertical construction for about a year before the economy took a downturn, and I then started my career as a construction administrator for an engineering firm, focusing on water and wastewater engineering and construction.
Being a licensed PE has allowed me to participate in all aspects of design and construction of projects, from 2” through 72” pipes, along with treatment plants and pump stations. I have a great balance of time in the office and time in the field, where I am able to use my experiences as a licensed PE to solve problems and focus on improving civil infrastructure. I’ve very glad I made that early decision that led me on the path the my PE license - Jason Savage, DTC Civil Construction Instructor
As a junior in college, I just happened to be in the Civil Engineering building one evening and noticed a line forming in the lobby. I asked what was going on and found out it was a line to sign up to take the FE exam. I had not strongly considered pursuing my PE license, but after some discussion among my closest friends, we all decided to sign up for the FE. We were planning to work in construction, most likely vertical construction or roadways, and saw PE as just a couple initials behind our name, but what the heck? I passed the FE on the first try, graduated college, and started working in vertical construction.
Even as a young EI working in construction, I had not totally grasped the value of PE licensure in construction. After about 6 months of working full time, I had run into several PEs on the project site and soon realized the value PE licensure offered. I worked in vertical construction for about a year before the economy took a downturn, and I then started my career as a construction administrator for an engineering firm, focusing on water and wastewater engineering and construction.
Being a licensed PE has allowed me to participate in all aspects of design and construction of projects, from 2” through 72” pipes, along with treatment plants and pump stations. I have a great balance of time in the office and time in the field, where I am able to use my experiences as a licensed PE to solve problems and focus on improving civil infrastructure. I’ve very glad I made that early decision that led me on the path the my PE license - Jason Savage, DTC Civil Construction Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
December 14, 2018
Engineering Toys - Our Favorites: The Classic Erector Set
When I ponder what toy influenced me the most to pursue an engineering career, the answer is easy: my Gilbert Erector Set. I don't remember when my father bought it for me, surely at Christmas, but I have had it ever since, though it has gone missing recently in some reorganization of the house. I had Model #10 1/2, the Amusement Park Edition. The most complicated project in my set was probably the parachute drop. It stood when completed about 3 feet tall, and had little figures of people and real silk parachutes. The people would be raised slowly to the top, then the mechanism would hit an empty space on the main gear and they would be released and float slowly to the floor.
It came with an extensive workbook of things to build, from simple to complex. It had wheels and axles to make a car or truck with articulated steering, all manner of gears, girders, assorted screws and nuts, and an electric motor to drive things. My favorite projects involved cranes. I can't even imagine how many hours I spent building things, then taking them apart and putting the pieces back in its bright red metal case for the next time. I probably learned valuable organizational skills just doing that. It was much more than a toy, it planted the seeds of a very rewarding career.
You can still find vintage sets for sale, but for one in mint condition, be prepared to pay a pretty penny as an Antiques Road Show appraisal shows. The closest thing I could find to my set that is currently available is the Steel Works Ferris Wheel. Other “erector” sets seem to be focused on vehicles and robots, which I suppose is the way to the hearts and minds of today’s kids.
Funny how you come to be attached to something so long ago in your past. Ralphie in the movie "A Christmas Story" had his Red Ryder BB gun with the compass in the stock. I had my Erector Set. At least I couldn't shoot my eye out! - Dr. Tom
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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December 12, 2018
FEATURED TESTIMONIAL - I Passed!
The results of the October 2018 Exam are starting to come in, and we love to hear those two words – I Passed!
“I passed! This was my first attempt at the P.E. I felt that your prep course did a great job of preparing me for the October 2018 Machine Design & Materials exam. The PRNs were key. Also, the strategy you provided of making three passes was also very important. I have been recommending your course to colleagues and to my students.”
Dr. David Raymond, PE, California State University, Los Angeles, CA
“I passed the Civil Geotechnical PE exam on my first try in October 2018, and I attribute this to Dr. Tom’s Classroom for providing the best schedule, study material, and strategies and also introducing a great team of instructors. I would highly recommend his classes to anyone who is planning on taking their PE exam.”
- Dadbeh Dowlatshahi, P.E., Houston, Texas
“I am proud to report that I received a passing score on the October 2018 Thermal & Fluids exam. I must admit that am quite surprised to say the least. If someone who has not looked at undergraduate engineering for over 30 years can pass using this course, then this is positive proof that the DTC method is effective.”
- Steven, PE, Virginia Beach, VA
“I passed! This was my first attempt at the P.E. I felt that your prep course did a great job of preparing me for the October 2018 Machine Design & Materials exam. The PRNs were key. Also, the strategy you provided of making three passes was also very important. I have been recommending your course to colleagues and to my students.”
Dr. David Raymond, PE, California State University, Los Angeles, CA
“I passed the Civil Geotechnical PE exam on my first try in October 2018, and I attribute this to Dr. Tom’s Classroom for providing the best schedule, study material, and strategies and also introducing a great team of instructors. I would highly recommend his classes to anyone who is planning on taking their PE exam.”
- Dadbeh Dowlatshahi, P.E., Houston, Texas
“I am proud to report that I received a passing score on the October 2018 Thermal & Fluids exam. I must admit that am quite surprised to say the least. If someone who has not looked at undergraduate engineering for over 30 years can pass using this course, then this is positive proof that the DTC method is effective.”
- Steven, PE, Virginia Beach, VA
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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December 10, 2018
NASA Needs Snow Data - You Can Help
Here in Raleigh at the DTC home base, we just got our first big snow of the season, and it was a doozy. We may have been caught by surprise, but researchers around the US have been thinking about snow for years!
Did you know that information about how much snow is on the ground at any given time allows scientists and engineers to predict trends in water supply for agriculture and hydropower and provides crucial information about where and when we might encounter snow-related hazards such as avalanches? The problem lies in gathering enough accurate data on snow depth around the country.
But now there’s a new project funded by NASA to let those who play in the snow help study the snow! It aims to have citizen scientists help to broaden and improve our understanding of snow. The project is called “Community Snow Observations” (CSO), and it’s targeting skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and more, who will measure snow depth and report the information on an app on their phones! So grab your sled and go do a little science on your snow day. - Beth Sciaudone, DTC Civil Water Resources & Environmental Instructor
Did you know that information about how much snow is on the ground at any given time allows scientists and engineers to predict trends in water supply for agriculture and hydropower and provides crucial information about where and when we might encounter snow-related hazards such as avalanches? The problem lies in gathering enough accurate data on snow depth around the country.
But now there’s a new project funded by NASA to let those who play in the snow help study the snow! It aims to have citizen scientists help to broaden and improve our understanding of snow. The project is called “Community Snow Observations” (CSO), and it’s targeting skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and more, who will measure snow depth and report the information on an app on their phones! So grab your sled and go do a little science on your snow day. - Beth Sciaudone, DTC Civil Water Resources & Environmental Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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December 6, 2018
Perseverance Can Pay Off!
While there are plenty of people who pass the PE Exam on the first try, there are are quite a few who don’t. We have lots of folks who come to DTC after trying to study on their own or taking review courses from other sources, and we have helped many of them pass on their second, third, and, in one case, their eighth try! So don’t give up! With a dedicated effort on your part and our tried and true review method, you can succeed!
“With DTC’s help I finally passed the Civil PE exam after several previous attempts! The organization of the course material helped me out tremendously.”
– PE, Baton Rouge, Louisiana (WRE)
“On my first attempt at the PE exam I gathered all the recommended materials I could find, established a system and devoted 260 hours to studying. I failed. Too much of my self directed study time was spent studying high challenge low probability material or material that wouldn't even be on my depth portion or the exam at all. Dr. Tom provided strategy, guidance and clarity on what to expect on the exam as well as well organized high quality review material and videos.”
- Brad Townsend, P.E., MAJ USA
“I had taken a different review course previously, but didn't pass. I was unsure if another review course would help. I liked Dr. Tom's course because he provided test taking tips specific to the P.E. exam. This was key for me.”
- John Kilgore, PE, Mantech, Huntsville, AL
“As a repeat exam taker, I felt like I was prepared the first time I took the exam, but very inefficient. With the Dr. Tom Method on the second, I had 75-80% of the necessary formulas, conversions, and charts/graphs right in front of me. I also understood the importance of not dwelling on any one single problem for too long, which also hurt me in the first attempt. I passed on the second attempt. Thanks to Dr. Tom and his staff for helping me achieve this career and personal goal.”
- Phillip Scrimpshire, Thompson’s Welding Services, Hamilton, MS
“With DTC’s help I finally passed the Civil PE exam after several previous attempts! The organization of the course material helped me out tremendously.”
– PE, Baton Rouge, Louisiana (WRE)
“On my first attempt at the PE exam I gathered all the recommended materials I could find, established a system and devoted 260 hours to studying. I failed. Too much of my self directed study time was spent studying high challenge low probability material or material that wouldn't even be on my depth portion or the exam at all. Dr. Tom provided strategy, guidance and clarity on what to expect on the exam as well as well organized high quality review material and videos.”
- Brad Townsend, P.E., MAJ USA
“I had taken a different review course previously, but didn't pass. I was unsure if another review course would help. I liked Dr. Tom's course because he provided test taking tips specific to the P.E. exam. This was key for me.”
- John Kilgore, PE, Mantech, Huntsville, AL
“As a repeat exam taker, I felt like I was prepared the first time I took the exam, but very inefficient. With the Dr. Tom Method on the second, I had 75-80% of the necessary formulas, conversions, and charts/graphs right in front of me. I also understood the importance of not dwelling on any one single problem for too long, which also hurt me in the first attempt. I passed on the second attempt. Thanks to Dr. Tom and his staff for helping me achieve this career and personal goal.”
- Phillip Scrimpshire, Thompson’s Welding Services, Hamilton, MS
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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December 5, 2018
Achieve the Extraordinary - Shannon Warchol’s Story
As an academic researcher, using my PE seal is rare, usually reserved for when I'm trying to recall my license number to record PDHs. Yet having that designation has still allowed me to achieve great personal fulfillment. Researchers can become so focused on specific questions that we often miss or forget the larger picture. Preparing for, and passing, the PE has provided tremendous personal confidence, reminding me that although my daily work may be highly specialized, I still have the ability to relearn, recall, and understand the general knowledge that underlies our field. Professionally, holding a PE designation is critical as a young professional. Most of my clients are practicing engineers. Having my license brings a sense of commonality and understanding when I walk into a room to present findings. The PE designation is about so much more than the seal - it is about the personal and professional respect from and for all others whom you encounter. - Shannon Warchol, DTC Civil Structural Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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December 3, 2018
Where Did All the Water Go?
"Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink." A line from The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It comes to no surprise that the world has a clean water supply problem. Quantifying it staggers the mind. A recent ASME article discussed a new robot that could pinpoint with a very high level of accuracy the location of links in pipes. In Saudi Arabia, where water is the most expensive in the world, 30% is lost to leaks and maintenance issues. These new robots by WatchTower Robotics are unique in that they can detect leaks within a foot of where they are in a piping system. What the designers of these robots discovered in talking to potential customers was that the robot with its GPS system would help them find the pipe that had the leak. As old as many water systems are, especially in large cities, the location of pipes has been lost in time. Robots with these kind of capabilities could change the quality of life for literally millions of people.And we certainly don't want to say to ourselves one day, "where did all the water go?" - Dr. Tom
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 30, 2018
FEATURED TESTIMONIAL – Targeted Review That’s Worth It
“The most valuable aspect of the course for me was that Dr. Tom provides a finite range of material to study, so that I did not have to guess about what might be on the exam. That alone was worth the price of the course. It also helped me to have the structure of the course to follow. I am a teacher myself, and I recognize that Dr. Tom is personally invested in the success of his students. He puts a lot of thought and work into providing good instruction. Dr. Tom and staff, thank you so much for all of your help.”
John Gravitt, PE
John Gravitt, PE
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 28, 2018
Engineering Toys - Our Favorites: Tegu Magnetic Blocks
My favorite engineering toys are Tegu magnetic block sets. They are a new take on the classic wooden blocks. With a magnets inside each block, that make building easier and more stable, providing a better opportunity to experiment with different types of structures and creatures. They allow kids to solve problems, build a variety of objects, and use creativity to come up with numerous designs. The Tegu YouTube channel has dozens of videos showing you how to make a wide variety of things with the blocks. I usually sit down beside my kids and build with them. I have as much fun as they do! - Daniel Findley, DTC Civil Transportation Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 26, 2018
Time Is Running Out to Save $100!
Today is the last day to get $100 Off any 20-Week Review with our Thanksgiving Discount. So sign up today, save $100, and begin your journey to becoming a Professional Engineer. Use discount code: THANKS20w100.
Save $100 on any 20-Week Review!
Use discount code: THANKS20w100
Friday 11/23 - Monday 11/26
drtomsclassroom.com
Use discount code: THANKS20w100
Friday 11/23 - Monday 11/26
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November 20, 2018
Happy Thanksgiving from Everyone at Dr. Tom’s Classroom!
$100 Off Any 20-Week Review!
We are very thankful for the many wonderful folks who have put their trust in us to help them pass the Civil and Mechanical Professional Engineering Exams.
To express our gratitude, we are offering a special Thanksgiving Discount of $100 off our 20-Week Reviews from Friday, Nov. 23 through Monday, Nov. 26.
We are very thankful for the many wonderful folks who have put their trust in us to help them pass the Civil and Mechanical Professional Engineering Exams.
To express our gratitude, we are offering a special Thanksgiving Discount of $100 off our 20-Week Reviews from Friday, Nov. 23 through Monday, Nov. 26.
Save $100 on any 20-Week Review!
Use discount code: THANKS20w100
Friday 11/23 - Monday 11/26
drtomsclassroom.com
Use discount code: THANKS20w100
Friday 11/23 - Monday 11/26
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November 19, 2018
Achieve the Extraordinary - Mike Batten’s Story
Becoming a Professional Engineer has enabled me to participate in a number of extraordinary projects throughout my career. These range from as simple as performing the foundation design for a local university parking deck to as complicated as performing foundation design and oversight on the replacement of the Bonner Bridge in North Carolina and replacement of the Tappan Zee Bridge in New York. I've personally driven over these bridges multiple times, and I have friends and relatives that drive them on a regular basis and always comment on construction progress, and how magnificent these structures actually are. Without becoming a Professional Engineer, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to participate in such extraordinary engineering projects. My PE registration has given me a chance to make a positive impact on the public and has given me great stories that I can share with my children. - Mike Batten, PE, DTC Civil Geotechnical Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 14, 2018
Engineering Toys - Our Favorites: Mini Strandbeest Wind Robot
With the holidays just around the corner, here at DTC, we’ve already started thinking about gifts, and we want to share some of our favorite engineering toys. If you’ve never seen Theo Jansen’s Strandbeests in action, you should check out the many videos online showing his colossal, mesmerizing, wind-driven, kinetic sculptures walking down beaches around the world. What’s even better is that you can have a mini version of your own that takes only 90 minutes to assemble. Just add a breeze, and it’s off and walking. - Dr. Tom
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 12, 2018
FEATURED TESTIMONIAL - Flexible to Fit Your Schedule - Whatever It Is!
“I’m a father with two young children and a demanding job. I knew that finding a study resource was critical for me. I wasn’t going to be able to commit hours mid-day or on the weekend to studying. I found the Dr. Tom course after researching PE exam study aids. The initial testimonials grabbed my attention, and after watching your exam strategy videos I felt instantly confident that this was the right program for me. The structure and organization provided by the course and the frank commentary on what or what not to study, were critical in my success. I can’t comment on any other study programs out there, but I can say with complete certainty that the Dr. Tom program ensured my ability to pass the exam. I can’t thank them enough!”
- Aaron John Tippie, PE, Westwood Professional Services, Inc., San Antonio, Texas
- Aaron John Tippie, PE, Westwood Professional Services, Inc., San Antonio, Texas
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 8, 2018
Autonomous Vehicle Crashes - Oops! We’re Hitting Them
Autonomous vehicles may revolutionize the way we travel, interact with society, and accessibility (amongst a multitude of other possible impacts). Many experts agree that an autonomous driving world will provide safety benefits. However, many also speculate about the difficulty in the transition period (and the length of the transition period between mostly human drivers and mostly autonomous driving). A recent Wired article explored the limited available data thus far to figure out how crashes are occurring with autonomous vehicles. The answer - we (the human drivers) are rear-ending them. 57% of self-driving car crashes were rear-end type crashes in 2018 in California (followed by 29% sideswipe crashes). The future remains unknown in terms of how we will interact with this new technology and how quickly the market will become saturated, but both aspects will have long-term effects on highway safety. - Daniel Findley, DTC Civil Transportation Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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November 6, 2018
Start Strong. Finish Strong.
The PE Exam is not a sprint; it’s a distance race. And it requires careful preparation to be in good form on exam day. Dr. Tom developed the 20-Week Review because he found, after many years of preparing engineers for the PE Exam, that 20 weeks is the optimal time frame for learning and retaining the knowledge and skills you need to pass the exam.
Sign up and start your DTC 20-Week Review for the April 2019 Civil or Mechanical PE Exam today!
“The PE exam is a “mental marathon” and a major undertaking for anyone, especially someone like myself who had been out of school for 30 years. I passed on my first try, and I attribute this to Dr. Tom’s Classroom for reinforcing basic engineering fundamentals which were lost in my mind. His encouragement, knowledge of MERM, and basic drilling of problems was invaluable in my success. I would recommend his classes to anyone who is planning on taking their PE exam.”
- Michael Sulva, PE, GE-Hitachi, Wilmington, North Carolina
Sign up and start your DTC 20-Week Review for the April 2019 Civil or Mechanical PE Exam today!
“The PE exam is a “mental marathon” and a major undertaking for anyone, especially someone like myself who had been out of school for 30 years. I passed on my first try, and I attribute this to Dr. Tom’s Classroom for reinforcing basic engineering fundamentals which were lost in my mind. His encouragement, knowledge of MERM, and basic drilling of problems was invaluable in my success. I would recommend his classes to anyone who is planning on taking their PE exam.”
- Michael Sulva, PE, GE-Hitachi, Wilmington, North Carolina
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
Save $25 with discount code: achieve25B
Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
November 2, 2018
Achieve the Extraordinary - Beth Sciaudone’s Story
When I first started working as a consulting engineer, I was nonplussed that my title was "Coastal Scientist" - after all, I had spent over 8 years studying engineering - couldn't that be my title? It turns out that I could only be called a "Coastal Engineer" once I had obtained my P.E. license.
Well, I got down to business researching when I could take the exam. With other work experience and my Ph.D. in hand, it turned out that I only had to wait about two years before I was eligible to sit for the exam. I started studying (and let me tell you - I wish Dr. Tom's method had been around back when I was sitting down every week working through the CERM!) to get ready to take the exam in April of 2004.
When exam day arrived, I was about 4 months pregnant, which made that year doubly exciting, as my first daughter was born right after I found out that I passed.
I was so proud to order my new business cards with "Engineer" as my title, and I got a raise to boot! I left those old business cards behind in the recycling bin. I'm proud to be a role model for my daughters, who know that they too can achieve whatever they set their minds to. - Beth Sciaudone, DTC Civil Water Resources & Environmental Instructor
Well, I got down to business researching when I could take the exam. With other work experience and my Ph.D. in hand, it turned out that I only had to wait about two years before I was eligible to sit for the exam. I started studying (and let me tell you - I wish Dr. Tom's method had been around back when I was sitting down every week working through the CERM!) to get ready to take the exam in April of 2004.
When exam day arrived, I was about 4 months pregnant, which made that year doubly exciting, as my first daughter was born right after I found out that I passed.
I was so proud to order my new business cards with "Engineer" as my title, and I got a raise to boot! I left those old business cards behind in the recycling bin. I'm proud to be a role model for my daughters, who know that they too can achieve whatever they set their minds to. - Beth Sciaudone, DTC Civil Water Resources & Environmental Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
Save $25 with discount code: achieve25B
Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
October 31, 2018
Now Open - World’s Longest Sea-Crossing Bridge
A new world record was broken last week when a bridge connecting Hong Kong to Zhuhai and Macao saw its initial trip. The 34 mile bridge will be the world's longest and includes multiple viaducts, three cable-stayed bridges, and a 4 mile tunnel. Currently, the ferry connecting the cities takes more than 90 minutes, but the bridge will slash that travel time to 30 minutes. Take a look at some gorgeous images of the transportation system in this Asia Times article. - Shannon Warchol, PE - DTC Civil Structural Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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October 29, 2018
TESTIMONIAL OF THE WEEK - Problem Identification - A Key to Success
“Dr. Tom's 20-week review course was very helpful at breaking down the mountain of information that is Mechanical Engineering into small bite-sized pieces. I had taken the PE twice before, and my biggest concern was problem identification and time management. I knew that these two strategies are critical to passing. On previous exams, I often times would not be able to quickly identify the question type and, therefore, wouldn’t know how to begin to solve it. I believe this was the main reason I did not pass before, and the other review course I took did not help out much with that.
It was apparent early on in Dr. Tom’s 20-Week Review course that problem identification was one of the main focuses. With the way the course topics were divided, as well as with use of the Personalized Resource Notebooks, I was able to identify problem types significantly faster than before. I believe this was the main reason I passed. Dr. Tom seems to really care about his students and course attendees, and I’m grateful his devotion has lead to such an effective review course. Dr. Tom’s course was much more effective than the other review course I took, and I would recommend Dr. Tom's 20-Week Review to others preparing for the ME PE Exam, without a doubt.”
- William Allred, PE, LEED AP BD+C, RS&H, Merritt Island, Florida
It was apparent early on in Dr. Tom’s 20-Week Review course that problem identification was one of the main focuses. With the way the course topics were divided, as well as with use of the Personalized Resource Notebooks, I was able to identify problem types significantly faster than before. I believe this was the main reason I passed. Dr. Tom seems to really care about his students and course attendees, and I’m grateful his devotion has lead to such an effective review course. Dr. Tom’s course was much more effective than the other review course I took, and I would recommend Dr. Tom's 20-Week Review to others preparing for the ME PE Exam, without a doubt.”
- William Allred, PE, LEED AP BD+C, RS&H, Merritt Island, Florida
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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October 25, 2018
Expanding Table - Engineering Magic
I would suspect that most of us have a dining room table that has the ability to expand to allow additional seating. Some require you to store separate sections away from the table, however newer models have the extra sections built into the table itself. We have one like this, and it is really neat how it works.
But my humble table pales in comparison to the ingenious design of the expanding tables made by Johnson Furniture in England. I challenge you to watch this mesmerizing video showing how the table is assembled only once. The table displays, not only precision engineering, but a dash of dramatic flair as it opens. Talk about achieving the extraordinary! The assembly might look like a piece of cake, but I think that a piece of pie would better describe this table.
Enjoy! Dr. Tom
But my humble table pales in comparison to the ingenious design of the expanding tables made by Johnson Furniture in England. I challenge you to watch this mesmerizing video showing how the table is assembled only once. The table displays, not only precision engineering, but a dash of dramatic flair as it opens. Talk about achieving the extraordinary! The assembly might look like a piece of cake, but I think that a piece of pie would better describe this table.
Enjoy! Dr. Tom
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
Save $25 with discount code: achieve25B
Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
October 23, 2018
Now Is the Perfect Time To Begin Your 20-Week Review
Dr. Tom developed the 20-Week Review because he found, after many years of preparing engineers for the PE Exam, that 20 weeks is the optimal time frame for learning and retaining the knowledge and skills you need to pass the exam.
There are concepts you need to relearn, problem-solving skills you need to develop, reference materials you need to organize, and practice solving problems that needs to happen. All this takes time. Start too early and your familiarity with the material will fade over time. Start too late, and the information won’t sink in and you won’t get enough practice (more on why Dr. Tom's 20-Week Review Method is critical to your success).
Everyone’s schedule is different, but if you can put in 15-20 hours per week on your preparation, now is the perfect time to sign up for a DTC 20-Week Review for the April 2019 Exam.
“Dr. Tom's 20 week course helped me learn everything I needed to pass the PE Exam on the first try. The best part about the 20-Week Review is that you develop a weekly schedule of what you need to work on. Material is not crammed into a 3 or 4 week review like some other PE courses. With the 20-Week Review, you gradually rebuild and strengthen what you learned in college so you can take on the PE exam with confidence. I just wish I could shake Dr. Tom's hand and tell him thank you for everything!”
- Michael Noll, PE, Delmar Systems in Houston, TX
There are concepts you need to relearn, problem-solving skills you need to develop, reference materials you need to organize, and practice solving problems that needs to happen. All this takes time. Start too early and your familiarity with the material will fade over time. Start too late, and the information won’t sink in and you won’t get enough practice (more on why Dr. Tom's 20-Week Review Method is critical to your success).
Everyone’s schedule is different, but if you can put in 15-20 hours per week on your preparation, now is the perfect time to sign up for a DTC 20-Week Review for the April 2019 Exam.
“Dr. Tom's 20 week course helped me learn everything I needed to pass the PE Exam on the first try. The best part about the 20-Week Review is that you develop a weekly schedule of what you need to work on. Material is not crammed into a 3 or 4 week review like some other PE courses. With the 20-Week Review, you gradually rebuild and strengthen what you learned in college so you can take on the PE exam with confidence. I just wish I could shake Dr. Tom's hand and tell him thank you for everything!”
- Michael Noll, PE, Delmar Systems in Houston, TX
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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October 22, 2018
ACHIEVE THE EXTRAORDINARY - Daniel Findley’s Story
Transportation and engineering played a significant role in my career and my grandfather's career. My maternal grandfather, Frank Greenberger, was a PE and graduated from Purdue University in 1948 with a BS in Electrical Engineering and 1950 with an MS in Industrial Engineering. He spent most of his working career with GE at the Transportation Technology Center in Erie, Pennsylvania. He was passionate about trains and his work included developing locomotives for GE. He assisted with the design of one of the buildings in Erie and was given a drawing of the mural that was painted in the facility.
The drawing now hangs proudly in my office and represents the legacy of engineer throughout history and highlights many of the modes of transportation that I've been involved with, including rail, aviation, and roads. It reminds me of the long and important legacy of transportation engineering, the role that engineers play in improving society, the debt we owe to previous generations of engineers, and the responsibility we have for future Professional Engineers. - Dr. Daniel Findley, DTC Civil Transportation Instructor.
The drawing now hangs proudly in my office and represents the legacy of engineer throughout history and highlights many of the modes of transportation that I've been involved with, including rail, aviation, and roads. It reminds me of the long and important legacy of transportation engineering, the role that engineers play in improving society, the debt we owe to previous generations of engineers, and the responsibility we have for future Professional Engineers. - Dr. Daniel Findley, DTC Civil Transportation Instructor.
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
October 17, 2018
Autonomous Pods - Our Transit Future?
Want a glimpse into future? Take a short detour the next time you're in London's Heathrow Airport in Terminal 5. A set of autonomous pods will shuttle you (for free) from the terminal to the parking lot. This may be the way transit works in the future - smaller scale, more personal, and without a driver. These pods don't interact with other traffic, so their job is a little easier than what other autonomous vehicles are attempting to do. However, the pods are able to run more frequently than a large bus, so average wait times are much lower. The interaction is based on a touchscreen (to choose between 2 destinations) and information is provided by audio and video. - Dr. Daniel Findley, DTC Civil Transportation Instructor
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
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Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
October 15, 2018
FEATURED TESTIMONIAL - The Binders Proved To Be a Lifesaver!
“I successfully passed the PE exam on my second attempt. I went in much more confident and I can thank your class for that. The binders that we made from the class proved to be a lifesaver and I was able to answer most of the questions simply from them alone. This saved a ton of time as I wasn't constantly flipping through the MERM and the other mountains of books desperately looking for an answer or random equation.
I feel like the biggest advantage that your class brings to the table is that you structure all of the information you need in a way that is much easier to find. I feel that any competent engineer should be able to answer just about every question the PE throws at them if given enough time, but the exam forces you to be fast and efficient. Even if you are the most well-versed engineer in the world if you don't have a method in place to quickly find the equation or topic that you are looking for it can make for a really tough test day.
I will definitely recommend your class to peers who are considering taking the PE in the future. Thanks for everything!”
- Brandon F., PE, Dallas, TX
I feel like the biggest advantage that your class brings to the table is that you structure all of the information you need in a way that is much easier to find. I feel that any competent engineer should be able to answer just about every question the PE throws at them if given enough time, but the exam forces you to be fast and efficient. Even if you are the most well-versed engineer in the world if you don't have a method in place to quickly find the equation or topic that you are looking for it can make for a really tough test day.
I will definitely recommend your class to peers who are considering taking the PE in the future. Thanks for everything!”
- Brandon F., PE, Dallas, TX
Dr. Tom's Classroom - Achieve the Extraordinary
Save $25 with discount code: achieve25B
Change Is Coming! You Should Take the PE Exam Now.
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