Well, the exam for Electrical Engineers doesn't have them build a circuit either. I assume you're forgetting that you also have to apply to the State Board, documenting your entire Engineering career, which will be the most substantial part of the licensing process. I guarantee you that you'll have plenty of opportunity at this time to demonstrate your programming experiences.
When individuals ask me for a PE recommendation, I am often reminded in particular of one of the questions from the PPI2PASS FAQ [1]:
Q: I have been in supervision since graduation. I have never performed a single calculation.
When individuals ask me for a PE recommendation, I am often reminded in particular of one of the questions from the PPI2PASS FAQ [1]:
Q: I have been in supervision since graduation. I have never performed a single calculation.
A: Oops.
[1] https://ppi2pass.com/faqs/qualifying-to-take-the-licensing-e...