Since 1992, the GEO has been operating the GEG training scheme to nurture professional geotechnical engineers, under the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) Scheme "A" for the Geotechnical Discipline. The training scheme allows the trainees to acquire practical experience and attain competence to be qualified as geotechnical professionals. There are about 240 qualified geotechnical professionals in GEO, some 20% of whom were previously trained under this scheme.
The GEG training is well-structured and competence-based, which comprises the following key stages:
- 5-month focused training in geology, ground investigation and laboratory testing;
- 12-month site experience;
- 12-month design office experience; and
- 7-month exposure to greater technical and managerial responsibility (this may include attachment to government institutes in Mainland China).
The implementation of the training scheme is managed by the Head of GEO. An Engineering Supervisor (a Chief Geotechnical Engineer or a Senior Geotechnical Engineer in the GEO) is responsible for the overall supervision and coordination of the training. The Engineering Supervisor delegates the authority for the day-to-day supervision and control of the GEGs to the Training Tutors. In order to supplement the tutoring system, Training Coaches are appointed to monitor the professional development of the GEGs and give advice to them on their personal development.