You're killing me Smalls!

I am trying to complete an NCEES “record” that is required by a state in which I wish to seek licensure by reciprocity. I have been licensed in two states for over 25 years (27 years in one of them). I initially submitted my complete surveying experience, which includes multiple past employers.

In one example, I listed my experience as a Project Manager on a freeway construction project. I described my supervision of multiple survey crews, my roadway and bridge calculations, scheduling responsibilities, and related tasks. Shortly thereafter, I received a notice stating that I had not been specific enough in explaining what I personally did as a surveyor.

As a result, I revised the description and explained how I created Excel spreadsheets to calculate centerline profiles and offset elevations, and then imported and exported the data into CAD. I explained that these calculations included vertical curves, superelevations, and bridge elevation calculations for concrete forming above finished grades, accounting for the effects of concrete loading weight on spans between piers.

I have now received a notice stating that I included too much detail and am being instructed to: “Please reduce the current text by half (1/2), citing only the most salient points of the project.”

I have previously called the NCEES “help” number several times, only to speak with individuals who appeared to have minimal knowledge of surveying and were able to answer only very general questions. They would not honor my request to speak with someone who could address my application in a more specific and knowledgeable manner.

I am frustrated by the demands to reformat and revise my experience descriptions to suit the apparent whims of the reviewers, whom apparently, I can only communicate with through my online submissions. My last submission: “You’re killing me, Smalls,” was not well received.