Published:May 21, 2025

Engineering Meets Leadership: How ASEM Prepares the Modern Engineering Manager

Key Takeaways

  • ASEM is the leading professional society for engineering management, offering certifications, resources, and a global community for engineers transitioning into leadership.

  • ASEM sets international standards in engineering management education and professional practice through tools like the EMBoK and EM Handbook.

  • ASEM offers certifications for students and engineering professionals, such as the Certified Professional in Engineering Manager (CPEM) and Certified Associate Engineering Manager (CAEM).

  • Joining ASEM can accelerate career growth for engineering students, early-career professionals, and technical leaders in interdisciplinary roles.

  • ASEM supports academic institutions and industry through peer-reviewed research, conferences, and professional development tools.

Engineers today are expected to be technical experts and leaders who tackle engineering issues, business needs, and personnel problems with equal levels of competency.

However, engineers don’t often get the training they need to handle the non-technical aspects of their jobs. So, for engineers looking to advance their careers or set them on the right path, getting a certificate from a program accredited by the American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM) can be the right choice. 

ASEM is an international body that provides engineers with the tools, certifications, and mentorship they need to thrive as effective managers. Whether you're a student exploring your path, a professional aiming for a promotion, or an educator shaping the next generation, ASEM offers a comprehensive platform to support your growth in the field of engineering management.

In this article, we'll explore what ASEM is, how you can benefit from its certifications and resources, and why it plays an important role in developing engineering leaders across industries and around the globe.

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What Is the American Society for Engineering Management?

The American Society for Engineering Management, also known as ASEM, was established in 1979 as a professional society and certifying body that promotes and develops the discipline of engineering management.1 The goal of ASEM is to develop a new generation of engineers who are just as comfortable solving field-specific technical problems as they are managing team and business dynamics.

ASEM helps promote these skills through various resources designed to bolster engineering principles and management best practices.

These include:

  • Peer-reviewed publications

  • Webinars hosted by industry leaders

  • Certifications

ASEM helps members grow their expertise through networking events and groups, including student chapters on university campuses, mentoring programs, and annual conferences.

What Are the American Society for Engineering Management’s Core Offerings?

ASEM offers a wide range of programs and services tailored to engineering managers at all stages of their careers. Members enjoy access to exclusive resources, webinars, mentoring opportunities, and discounts on events and publications.

Among its most recognized features are its professional certifications, publications, and conferences.

Here is a closer look at their offerings.

Certifications

ASEM administers two primary certifications:2

  • Certified Associate in Engineering Management (CAEM)

  • Certified Professional in Engineering Management (CPEM).

The CAEM is for students and early-career professionals.3 A CAEM certificate signals to employers that you have a strong foundation in engineering management principles and a commitment to growth in the field.

  • Eligibility Requirements:

    You will need a bachelor's degree in a related technology or engineering field, but no professional experience is required.

  • Cost:

    The CAEM exam fee can range from $150 to $175 for ASEM members and $175 to $275 for non-members.

The CPEM is a professional certification for experienced individuals looking to validate their expertise in managing technical operations.4

  • Eligibility Requirements:

    You will need a minimum of four years of professional experience in a related field and a bachelor's degree in a related technology or engineering field.

  • Cost:

    The CPEM exam fee is $175 to $275 for ASEM members and $275 to $325 for non-members.

Both credentials are highly respected in the industry and are often used by employers to identify capable leaders.

Publications & Standards

ASEM’s Engineering Management Body of Knowledge (EMBoK) is a standardized textbook representing the most current engineering management research.5 This text is used in both academic settings and industry training programs and covers everything from project and quality management to systems thinking and leadership.

Complementing the EMBok is the Engineering Management (EM) Handbook.6 The EM focuses on the practical application of domains discussed in the EMBoK, making it invaluable for students and professionals alike.
In addition to these resources, ASEM also publishes the Engineering Management Journal.7 This peer-reviewed journal offers technical papers from across the spectrum of engineering management.

Conferences & Events

The International Annual Conference (IAC) is ASEM’s flagship event, drawing professionals, researchers, and students from around the globe.8

Attendees benefit from workshops, keynote addresses, and opportunities to present research. ASEM also sponsors student case competitions and regional meetups, fostering a community of practice.

In 2025, the IAC will be held from September 24 to 27 at The Grove Hotel in Boise, Idaho. This in-person conference, hosted by the University of Idaho, will feature technical sessions, workshops, panels, and networking events.9

What Impact Does the American Society for Engineering Management Have Globally?

ASEM is shaping the next generation of engineering leaders through initiatives at the university and corporate levels. Here is an overview of some of their work.

  • Standardized Excellence

    Both the EM Handbook and EMBoK are used in undergraduate and graduate engineering programs to teach students systems thinking, team leadership, and project management.

    These resources are instrumental in standardizing engineering management education and ensuring consistency in curriculum across institutions. ASEM’s global initiatives also emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, reflecting the complex, interconnected nature of modern engineering challenges.10

  • Student Development

    ASEM’s Academic Partnership Program makes it easier for universities to register large numbers of students as ASEM members. Making enrollment easier saves universities time and money and ensures that all students who need them get access to ASEM resources.11

    For example, the University of Colorado Boulder hosts an ASEM student chapter that organizes events to enhance students' professional development and introduce them to engineering management concepts.12 Activities include networking nights with industry representatives, resume and interview workshops, and seminars from experienced professionals.

  • Corporate Networks

    ASEM also offers corporate memberships that allow companies to collaborate with a global network of engineering management professionals.13

    These memberships grant direct access to the latest discussions and developments in the field, facilitating knowledge exchange and professional growth.

Why Should Students and Professionals Join the American Society for Engineering Management?

ASEM is an organization perfect for engineers at all stages of their careers, whether they're still in school or have years of experience. Here are a few reasons you should consider joining ASEM today.

  • For Students

    ASEM offers undergraduate and graduate students an early introduction to the field of engineering management, often before they enter the workforce.14

    Student members can benefit from:

    • Networking with local or virtual chapters

    • Access to internships

    • ASEM-sponsored competitions

    These experiences not only boost resumes but also provide real-world context for classroom learning.

  • For Early-Career Professionals

    Engineers at the start of their professional journeys benefit from ASEM’s certification programs and knowledge resources.15

    In particular, the CAEM and CPEM credentials will help distinguish emerging leaders and demonstrate readiness for roles that blend technical expertise with people and project management.

  • For Mid-Career Professionals

    Mid-career professionals can benefit from ASEM by getting a chance to develop their non-technical skills.

    Whether you want to transition into management or take on a cross-functional leadership role, ASEM offers the tools, frameworks, and recognition to make that shift successful.

How to Get Involved

Getting started with ASEM is easy. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned professional, you can:

  • Join as a member

    to gain access to tools, community forums, and educational content. Student memberships start at $35 per year, while professional memberships are $150 per year.15

  • Pursue certification

    as a Certified Associate Engineering Manager (CAEM) or Certified Professional Engineering Manager (CPEM) to validate your expertise.

  • Attend events

    such as webinars, regional meetups, or the International Annual Conference.

  • Connect through local or virtual chapters

    where members can exchange ideas and build networks.

Members can also use ASEM’s online portal to access templates, case studies, and discussion boards that support ongoing professional development.

Your Next Step Starts Here

Engineering managers are the bridge between technical excellence and strategic leadership, and ASEM is the organization built to support them. From students just beginning to explore engineering management to professionals leading multinational teams, ASEM offers the community, credentials, and content needed to succeed.

If you're ready to take the next step in your engineering career, visit asem.org to learn more or become a member.

Sources

  1. https://asem.org/About 

  2. https://www.asem.org/Education/Certification

  3. https://www.asem.org/CAEM

  4. https://www.asem.org/CPEM

  5. https://www.asem.org/EMBoK

  6. https://asem.org/Sys/Store/Products/340078

  7. https://asem.org/EMJ

  8. https://www.asem.org/conference

  9. https://www.asem.org/page-18449

  10. https://www.asem.org/International

  11. https://www.asem.org/AcademicPartnership

  12. https://www.colorado.edu/emp/american-society-engineering-management

  13. https://www.asem.org/Membership-Benefits

  14. https://www.asem.org/Student-Membership

  15. https://asem.org/Membership-Levels