What should an engineer do if they suspect unethical behavior in a colleague in Michigan?

When an engineer suspects unethical behavior in a colleague, reporting the misconduct to the appropriate licensing board is the proper course of action in Michigan. This step is crucial because licensing boards are responsible for overseeing professional conduct and ensuring that engineers adhere to ethical standards. By reporting the suspected unethical behavior to the board, the engineer helps maintain the integrity of the profession and allows the board to investigate and take any necessary actions.

Confronting the colleague directly might not be advisable, as it could lead to unnecessary conflict or may not effectively address the underlying issue. Ignoring the behavior completely undermines professional standards and could potentially allow unethical practices to continue unchecked. Notifying the client's legal team could also be an inappropriate step at this stage, as it may complicate the situation without resolving the core concern regarding professional ethics. Therefore, reporting to the licensing board is the most responsible and effective way to handle suspected unethical behavior.