As a professional engineer, I cannot help but speak out against Jay Ashcroft’s repeated false claims that he is an “engineer.” The integrity and credibility of the engineering profession are of utmost importance, and Jay Ashcroft’s lies undermine both.
Missouri law is very clear about who can call themselves an engineer. This distinction is crucial because engineers are responsible for designing and building bridges, high-rise buildings, and other infrastructure essential to public safety.
Many people don’t realize that the profession of engineer is actually enshrined in the Missouri Constitution. If you look in Chapter 327, you’ll find that it includes architects, professional engineers, professional land surveyors, and professional landscape architects. These skilled professions are enshrined in the Constitution because they affect the health, safety, and welfare of Missourians. When someone falsely claims to be an engineer, as Jay Ashcroft has repeatedly done, he is in direct violation of our Constitution. Jay Ashcroft took an oath to uphold the Missouri Constitution, and he breaks that oath every time he falsely claims to be an engineer.
Professional engineers are held to high standards that include academic achievement, professional achievement, and specific state certifications. These standards are not just bureaucratic checkmarks; they are essential to ensuring public safety. When individuals, not to mention politicians, falsely claim to be engineers, they undermine public trust and jeopardize the safety of the critical infrastructure that actual, credentialed engineers design and build.
A look at Jay Ashcroft’s real background reveals the truth. He has a degree in Engineering Management but is only certified as an “Engineering Intern.” Under Missouri law, this does not qualify him as an engineer. Jay Ashcroft’s claims are not just political rhetoric, they have real legal implications. Missouri Revised Statute 327.076.1 clearly states that falsely representing yourself as a professional engineer is subject to criminal prosecution and significant fines. This law exists to protect public safety by ensuring that only qualified individuals can hold the title of engineer.
I am not an optimist when it comes to politics. I understand that it is not uncommon for candidates to exaggerate or inflate their numbers. But what Jay Ashcroft has done is far worse. The claim “I am an engineer” plastered on the front page of his website is a blatant lie. And he doesn’t just lie about his background and history. Jay Ashcroft has made this lie the platform of his campaign.
Jay Ashcroft’s campaign theme, “Engineering a Stronger Missouri,” and his slogan, “Politicians solve the blame, engineers solve the problems,” are as hollow as they are false.
Jay Ashcroft has used engineering terminology and imagery everywhere, including in his so-called “redprint” vision and even on t-shirts and mugs. All of this is an attempt to deceive voters into believing he has qualifications he does not have. He is not a professional engineer and cannot sign official blueprints. I would not trust any infrastructure project he may have been involved in, and no Missourian should either, and I would not want to drive on any roads, cross any bridges, or enter any building involved with Jay Ashcroft or anyone else falsely claiming to be an engineer.
Professional engineers do not take kindly to individuals hijacking our hard-earned titles for political gain. Jay Ashcroft’s dishonesty not only tarnishes the engineering profession, it also endangers the public’s and their trust in our profession. As an engineer, I am deeply concerned by his actions. Jay Ashcroft is not an engineer.
