Careers in Civil Engineering
Content
CAREERS IN
CIVIL ENGINEERING
Institute Research Number 2 ISBN 1-58511-002-7 DOT Number 005.061-014 O*Net SOC Code 17-2051.00
CAREERS IN
CIVIL ENGINEERING FROM THE MOMENT YOU OPEN YOUR EYES IN THE MORNING THROUGH TO THE
last glimpse of light before you sleep, engineering marvels are part of your world. The lights you turn on; the radio and television you play; the running water in your bathroom and kitchen; the refrigerator, freezer, stove, microwave and other appliances you use; the streets you walk on and the highways and bridges you drive over; the structures you work in and live in; the cars, trucks, buses, trains, planes, boats you ride in, as well as the fuel and electricity that propels them; the computers, CD and DVD players you use; the cell phones and iPods you cannot live without – all started with an engineering idea.
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In the book Engineering - An Endless Frontier, author Sunny Y. Auyang, a physicist who is exploring science and technology writes, “Natural scientists discover what was not known. Engineers create what did not exist. Both boldly go where no one has gone before. Each original and creative in its own way. Through intensive research efforts in the past 50 years, engineers have developed engineering sciences, bodies of coherent knowledge that are comparable to the natural sciences in their length of vision, breadth of scope, depth of analysis, level of creativity, rigor of research, and criteria of acceptance.” Engineering is the application of scientific and technical knowledge to address problems, make tasks easier, create new processes, design new products and much more. From waste disposal methods that are environmentally sound, to designing a flashlight, to stronger and more flexible plastic, engineering is specialized scientific knowledge. It is high-tech and based on logical, systemic problem solving. Engineering has choices within its different specialties such as agricultural engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering and petroleum engineering to name a few. Civil engineering, one of the largest branches of the profession will be the subject of this Careers Report, the first of a two-part series. This report will cover all the basics, to be followed by Civil Engineering: The Technical Specialties that will focus on geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, construction engineering, transportation engineering and more. Defining civil engineering is like a history lesson in time. From earliest recorded time people have managed the building of imposing structures without the tools and equipment we have come to know and appreciate in modern times. How did they ever do that without the tools and equipment? This question has been a puzzler down through the centuries, and all we really know is that those that who recorded the process in drawings and symbols left enough information to encourage artisans and craftsmen and scientists throughout history to continue and advance the knowledge base to the profession we now know today as civil engineering. It has truly been 50 centuries in the making. When the American Society of Civil Engineering was founded in 1852, “Facilities for communication and transport were sorely needed to integrate these regional elements into a national structure for trade 3
and commerce. Fortunately, these services were to be forthcoming through many bold and imaginative enterprises in which engineers played an important role.” (From The American Civil Engineer, 1852-1974, by William H. Wisely) Civil engineering is also more than just creating, designing, constructing, maintaining and managing projects and processes, it is also the meshing of the environment – air, earth and water – with built structures, and how the particular engineering task blends in and complements the world around us. Civil engineers understand about preservation and protection and restoration. Civil engineers are the backbone of the engineering profession as they design and supervise the construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, dams, buildings, airports, water supply and sewage systems. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), “Aside from traditional engineering firms, civil engineers may work with utility companies, telecommunications businesses, consulting firms, or even toy and athletic equipment manufacturers. A civil engineering degree can lead you to a career in industry, government, computers, law, or medicine.”
IMPORTANT CAREER FOR THE 21ST CENTURY THIS IS AN IMPORTANT CAREER FOR TWO VERY SPECIFIC REASONS: THE PAST. THE
Future. We are an aging society not only in our population, but also in our infrastructure. Many of our roads, buildings and bridges were constructed during the Great Depression years of the 1930s, and still others have been in use since before the turn of the last century. The Industrial Revolution that swept Europe in the 1800s and came to America half way through the 19th century was the catalyst for a building boom that some say has not ever stopped. One of the most famous bridges in the country is the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was built between 1867 and 1884. And there are many examples of roads and structures more than a hundred years old that now are in need of repair or replacement. As our country continues a growth in population there is great concern about our natural resources, such as water, and how we address the demands of people versus conservation to accommodate future generations. The Colorado River, one of the longest rivers in the 4
world, and the Colorado River Aqueduct that in 1955 was designated one of the “Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders of the United States,” are once again under civil engineering review. This action in underway in order to determine what new engineering course to pursue so as to serve an ever-growing population in the West and still preserve the environment and natural resources. Roads span the past and the future as vehicle traffic seems to increase ten-fold every generation. We are a nation on wheels and we want our city streets, country lanes and Interstate highways to be safe and sound. Whether we are off to work or on a cross-country trek, the roads are clogged and becoming worn at an increasing and sometimes alarming rate. After healthcare, road and bridge construction and maintenance is a high-priority and high-priced budget item for governments across the country. The multitude of buildings that are old and will need work, along with the many new buildings that will rise over this century will attest to the creativity and innovation of the civil engineers who must study the past in order to serve the future. The world has changed since September 11, 2001 (the World Trade Center in 1971 was selected as an “Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement”) and the entire engineering profession is working with other specialists and technologists taking a new look at how we construct buildings and what can be done to make them as safe as possible. Preservation societies across the country are rushing to cite examples of engineering feats among the oldest structures in existence and save them from demolition, but many will need a good deal of restoration. It will be a shame to lose some of the best architecture this country has even known to the wrecking ball. It is a history that once destroyed we can never reclaim. In March of 2005, the American Society of Civil Engineers reported that our nation’s infrastructure is “crumbling” and gave us a grade of D. Many challenges needed in the future were cited in 12 categories including schools, airports, roadways, bridges, railroads, drinking water systems, public facilities like parks, and the power grid. Perhaps you, the next generation of civil engineers, will be able to make a significant contribution to urban and suburban buildings, bridges and roads as you preserve the past while pushing the creative envelope for an exciting, ground-breaking future that is unimaginable today.
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CIVIL ENGINEERING REVEALED CIVIL ENGINEERING IS ONE OF THE OLDEST SPECIALTIES IN THE FIELD OF
engineering, dating back to the late 1700s and becoming a professional force to reckon with in the early 1800s leading up to the founding of the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1852. Civil engineering has grown up with America. From the first organized construction of a road in 1806 in the Northwest Territory to the design of NASA’s space shuttle, civil engineers have been involved, contributing their expertise and innovation in moving America forward throughout our history. Civil engineers plan, design and oversee the construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities such as roads, bridges, railroads, airports, harbors, channels, dams, power plants, irrigation projects, pipelines, water and sewage systems, and waste disposal projects. These professionals are the crucial link between the goals of a project and its reality. The many components to typical civil engineering project include: Gathering and analyzing topographical and geologic data such as survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, and aerial photos. Testing soils and materials to determine whether the strength and adequacy of the foundation, concrete, asphalt or steel are right for the project. Conducting studies of traffic patterns and environmental conditions to help identify any engineering problems while assessing the potential impact of the proposed project. Determining project feasibility by estimating quantities and cost of the materials, equipment and labor needed for the project completion. Preparing and presenting all the public reports such as bid proposals, deeds. environmental impact studies, and property and right-of-way descriptions. Directing or participating in the surveying to lay out installations and establish reference points, grades and elevations that will help guide construction.
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Inspecting project sites to monitor progress and ensure that design specifications, and safety and sanitation standards are in conformity. Also, directing construction, operations and maintenance activities at the project site. Providing technical advice to industrial and managerial personnel regarding the project in such areas as the design, modifications, structural repairs, and construction methods. Civil engineers are savvy in the science of engineering and technology, mathematics, design, building, construction, transportation, public safety, security, administration, management, communications, and satisfying the client and consumer with personal services. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of the city planners in the US are civil engineers.
A LOOK BACK “ENGINEERING WAS NOT SPOKEN INTO EXISTENCE BY ROYAL DECREE OR CREATED
by legislative fiat. It has evolved and developed as a practical art and a profession over more than 50 centuries of recorded history. In a broad sense, its roots can be traced to the dawn of civilization itself, and its progress parallels the progress of mankind.” From the Introduction to Engineering, by Paul H. Wright. Inscribed clay tablets discovered on archeological digs and eventually deciphered show that the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia had the first recorded system of canals, temples and city walls. Also known is that the early Egyptians, about 3300 BC, had a large population living along the fertile valley of the Nile, and they developed and maintained an extensive system of dykes and canals and a drainage system. Other populations in the valleys of the Tigris and Euphrates developed large irrigation and flood control systems. The first pyramid was built in 2980 BC and evolved from a tomb that had been too easy for grave robbers to access from the top. Placing one level on top of another made it impossible to do that, but history tells us that many pyramids were desecrated. Three pyramids still stand at Giza reminding the world that the ancient Egyptians had outstanding engineering skills. A Greek historian who visited Egypt in the fifth century, BC, recorded that the Great Pyramid was built by 100,000 men over 20 years and that they worked in three-month relays. 7
By about 600 BC, the Greeks added architecton to their advances in art, literature and philosophy, as they became the first great master harbor builders. They also built the first lighthouse in the world about 300 BC. This 370-foot-high structure was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ruler Pericles, who signified the Golden Age of Greece, helped make Athens the most beautiful place on earth by hiring artists and building experts to construct temples and shrines, and statues on the Acropolis. The Romans, starting about 535 BC, were the most prolific engineers of antiquity devoting more of their labor and resources to public works than their predecessors. Romans had slaves so labor was cheap, and raw materials were in abundance, so they built arenas, public forums, temples, town halls, roads, aqueducts and baths. The buildings were practical and at the same time bold in execution and impressive in scale. Unlike the Greeks who were heavily into mathematical logic and science, the Romans relied on experience and emphasized function. The fall of the Roman Empire ushered in the Middle Ages which lasted about eight centuries and did not produce any significant engineering feats with one exception – the Gothic cathedrals. These towering, elegant structures with their stained glass windows, pointed central arches and high thin walls point to a high level of structural competence from those who designed them and those who built them. Also during this period, the wind mill was developed and water mills were improved and used in more ways. There was a push to get more production out of humans and animals. Starting about 1300 AD, scientific advances were being made in transportation and communication. Italian architect-engineers invented the canal lock making it possible for countries throughout Europe to build a network of canals for inland water travel. Advances in navigation devices and shipbuilding designs made ocean transport a reality. About 1450, Johann Gutenberg invented the movable type mole and printed the first book. By 1500, books were being published on such scientific and engineering subjects as surveying, mining, metallurgy, chemistry and hydraulics. Some of the greatest contributions to scientific knowledge that are still felt today came in the 15th through 17th centuries, with such luminaries as: Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), Italian artist, architect, experimental scientist, conceptual designer; Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543), Polish astronomer and founder of modern astronomy; 8
Galileo Gallelei (1564-1642), Italian astronomer and physicist who formulated the scientific method of gaining knowledge and was the first to use the telescope to study astronomy; Robert Boyle (1627-1691), Irish chemist and physicist who studied the compression and expansion of air and other gases and discovered that the volume of gas at a constant temperature varies inversely with its pressure (Boyle’s Law); Robert Hooke (1635-1703), English experimental scientist who formulated a theory of elasticity known as Hooke’s Law ; Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727), English scientist and mathematician who invented calculus, discovered the secrets of light and color, and formulated the law of gravity; Thomas Newcomen (1663-1729), English inventor who built the first practical steam engine that pumped water from British mines.
The Industrial Revolution Coke, a lighter more porous form of coal was developed for steam-driven mine pumps and for the driving of machinery in the ironworks factories and for new blowing machines to aid in the smelting process. In 1807 in America, Robert Fulton pioneered the first commercially successful river paddle steamship, and by 1825, Englishman George Stephenson demonstrated the feasibility of a steam-powered railroad locomotive. In America during the 1800s, canal construction took on a life of its own with such blockbusters as: The Erie Canal, built from 1817-1825, 364 miles long and connecting Erie, Pennsylvania and Buffalo, New York; The Ohio Canal, built from 1828-1836 and extending through the state from Cleveland to Portsmouth on the Ohio River; The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, built from 1828-1850 and extending from Washington, DC to Cumberland, Maryland. Also during this period, there were advances in the technology of building roads and, of course, one of the greatest engineering achievements of all time – the harnessing of electric energy. This new source of power made possible the many scientific and engineering achievements of the 1800s. During the first half of the 19th century, America had a national population of about 10 million with almost 90 percent of the people living in rural areas and settlements of less than 2,500. The railroad brought new urgency to bridge building and the first metal truss bridge that was cast in wrought iron was designed and built by the Reading Railroad in 1845. By 1856, the Bessemer converter was introduced and this ushered in the Steel Age.
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In America, civil engineering was a significant influence in the building of our country. The need for new technology was as alive here as it was in Europe and there was a push on to create professional organizations that would set standards and encourage the exchange of information. While it was 28 years in the making, the American Society of Civil Engineering was formally organized in 1852 as the first national professional engineering organization. By the end of the 19th century, electric power in America was becoming an essential part of daily life, with the development of the telegraph, telephone, and light bulb. Electric lighting for homes and industries was growing. Electricity was running trains and street cars and the machinery in our factories. A half million telephones were in use. The 20th century ushered in more outstanding innovations with the development of motor vehicles and the Wright brothers 12-second flight. Both of these science and engineering developments eventually led to modern mass production. By the end of the century, about nine out of every 10 households in the country had least one car to drive over 3.8 million miles of highways that included a 45,500-mile Interstate Highway System. During this same time we built more than 3,000 airports for commercial planes and another 2,200 general aviation airports to serve the smaller, private airplanes. We were on a civil engineering roll and the public took to each new feat. Additional civil engineering feats in the treatment of water and sewage helped eliminate diseases such as typhoid fever that claimed more than 10,000 lives in 1906 and was reduced to a handful two decades later. Other remarkable feats included the building of the Panama Canal which opened in 1914; the Empire State Building in 1931 at a height of 1250 feet; the Hoover Dam completed in 1936, the Sears Tower in 1974 and on and on. Now in the 21st century we can communicate anywhere and everywhere in a nanosecond and fly around the world using the technologies developed step by step over the past centuries. We may never really find out how ancient civilizations accomplished their feats, but we do know that their daring has led us to our bold achievements.
New frontiers are still to be discovered and
conquered and civil engineering feats will continue to make history. 10
WHAT CIVIL ENGINEERS DO THE RESULTS OF CIVIL ENGINEERING PART OF EVERYONE’S LIFE. IN THE BUILDINGS
where you work and live and the power grids that deliver their energy; on the roads and bridges and tunnels you walk or drive over and through; in the airports you use for business and pleasure; in the dams and water supply and sewage systems that keep you safe from toxic materials and industrial waste and more. Civil engineers usually work near major industrial areas and commercial centers, and can often be found at construction sites. They also work on projects around the world, some in remote areas. Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of just about everything from toys to buildings. To give you a sampling of the great variety of their work, here are descriptions of actual positions for civil engineers: Senior project designer for a land development and construction management firm to lead design team through all phases of land development engineering activities such as storm water, sanitary sewer, water systems and road design. A leadership position requiring superior engineering design, a wide range of field experience and excellent communication skills. Management analyst with the federal government to provide technical, analytical, and management support for defense projects. Duties include reviewing and commenting on program studies, drafting of position papers, reviewing procurement schedules, analyzing programs for enhancement, preparing electronic briefings, and reviewing funding profiles. Candidate must have security clearance. Project manager/site construction for a franchise organization with the ability to oversee all aspects of construction from maintaining the schedule and keeping on budget, to reviewing contracts and permits and working with architects and other engineers. You will need excellent communication, technical and computer skills. Travel is required for site reviews. Civil project manager for a Fortune 500 company with 30,000 employees operating in over 70 countries around the world and currently You will need knowledge of basic and complex civil engineering concepts to work with other engineering and construction professionals to manage and be accountable for projects in residential, industrial, commercial and municipal development. 11
Civil engineer for a local engineering and architectural firm that designs and manages highway projects in the state with experience in and understanding of highway design. Construction project engineer/estimator for a company responsible for the development, review and implementation plans and schedules for large capital projects of $5 million or more. Develop and review capital repair cost estimates. Train engineers and managers on best use of cost estimating tools and techniques. Civil engineer for an engineering firm that does business with the federal government and must perform specific project design and development tasks including drawings, calculations, cost estimates and specifications. You will respond to clients’ questions and comments, and review and provide clarifications during construction. Must be able to obtain a security clearance and have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the architectural and engineering industry. Civil engineer for a company that constructs buildings must be highly proficient in the analysis and design of concrete foundations and steel frame structures. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required along with connecting with all engineering, design and field construction disciplines. Excellent computer skills a must. Civil engineer for an aviation company to design and supervise construction projects on airports and roads leading to airports, estimating costs and personnel and material needs. Civil engineer for an information technology company to design systems including electrical, power communications and signal for educational, healthcare and correctional facilities. Preparation of construction drawings and specifications, cost estimates and field investigations. Must have good communication skills, demonstrated managerial skills, ability to lead a design team, and meet schedules and budgets. All civil engineers make decisions and solve problems; they provide documentation, drawings, specifications and detailed instructions on devices, parts, structures, and equipment. They analyze data and other information using computers and other technology. They are creative thinkers and know how to organize, plan and prioritize work. They transcribe, record, store and maintain information. They have excellent communication skills with peers, supervisors and others. Civil engineers are always in the forefront of technology and leading users of high-tech products as they design and construct. 12
WHERE CIVIL ENGINEERS WORK CIVIL ENGINEERS HOLD ABOUT 250,000 JOBS NATIONWIDE. ALMOST HALF ARE
employed by firms providing architectural, engineering, and related services, primarily developing designs for new construction projects. Almost one-third of the jobs are in federal, state and local government agencies. The rest work in the construction industry. About 15,000 civil engineers are self-employed, mostly as consultants. Civil engineers work in large urban and suburban areas, small towns and along city and state roads and Interstate highways in all 50 States. They also work in most countries of the world and in some very remote places in the underdeveloped nations, bringing roads and other infrastructure to people for the first time. Civil engineers work for architectural and engineering firms, national and international corporations, construction companies, telecommunication businesses, utility companies, consulting firms and government agencies. They can also be employed by toy manufacturers and health equipment manufacturers as designers.
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civil engineers are taught to make sound decisions and are good communicators, they make good business executives. Many corporate executives started out as a civil engineer. Civil engineers can also have careers in law, research and medicine, as well as in teaching.
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CIVIL ENGINEERS TELL THEIR OWN STORIES I Am a Civil Engineer Design Specialist “Design is one of the most complex, challenging, interesting and frustrating aspects of the engineering field and I wouldn’t have it any other way. You know, design has been with us since the beginning of time and it was passed on through the centuries from artisans and craftsmen to their apprentices. In engineering, design means a possible creative solution to a problem whether old or new. I work for a company that specializes in design processes and systems for aircraft. I have been with the company almost 15 years, and I am part of a team of specialists that look at certain types of aircraft to determine how they can function better and be safer. We identify the problem and then work to solve it. We can make simulated models on the computer and we can build full-scale models depending upon the particular process or system we are working on. Our diversified team does a lot of brainstorming as we tackle our work. It is important to generate as many ideas as possible, some of which may be impractical, but all are recorded and evaluated. We develop a checklist so that we can examine all the various points and design possibilities such as the color, shape, material, lever or push-button and if the device could have other uses, be made smaller or larger and other ideas. Once we have gathered the necessary information, then we decide on an approach to solving our problem, and that is a preliminary design. This is the crux of my work as this next step requires my engineering experience and expertise. I mold and modify the design over and over again, discarding what does not work and making alternative configurations, dimensions and other specifications. A solution may be brought before the team and rejected for specific reasons. Back to the basics and a new set of options to be tested and evaluated. This process can be ongoing as feedback and evaluation can only bring about a better solution. The answers can come in a reasonable amount of time or it can take months, even years to bring about a workable solution. 14
It is a process that is filled with challenge and frustration as you realize that the right answer is almost within your reach and just needs a small piece to complete and solve the puzzle. I always wanted to be an engineer and build things. I have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering and also my professional engineer’s license. My first civil engineering job was with a construction company and after almost four years realized that I was more interested in the design aspect of engineering. It took me almost a year to find this job and then convince my boss that I could be part of the team even though I had no prior aviation experience. It has worked out very well. Good pay. Good benefits. Really good job.”
I Am a Civil Engineer Construction Project Manager “I work for city government in a large metropolitan area and my work involves the construction of new public facilities and the streets surrounding them and the roads leading up to them. It is work that interacts with many other professionals and agencies and my responsibility is moving the project forward, on schedule and on budget. This means that I know and am comfortable with every aspect of the project and understand all the engineering and architectural plans, drawings, and documentation. I consider my work multi-tasking because I always have so many things going on at once. My work starts after the site plan has been approved and all the ordinances and municipal procedures have been addressed. The project is then fully discussed with all parties including any other engineers, architects and construction professionals that have taken the project from idea to reality. I lead and work with a team of engineers and construction professionals who ensure that every aspect of the construction is where it should be on any given day. Safety and welfare are prime concerns on the job not just for the workers, but for the public who will eventually use the structure.
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My work involves analyzing and evaluating all the information that is generated on a daily basis and making sound judgments in the decision process. I must give my full attention to the smallest detail so that no potential problem is overlooked. I can review and sign dozens of documents every day. I write many reports, letters and other documentation with an assurance that my superiors have come to expect from me. I have both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering. I have worked for the city since I graduated from college. I started out in design but did not like desk work as much as being in the field, so I took a few extra courses in construction management and passed additional testing to qualify. I worked with a team for more than seven years before I was given a chance at managing a city road project. That was some years ago and I have been going strong ever since. I am now considered a senior manager and get to oversee some of the largest projects in our area. I have a good working relationship with the professional team that usually comes with me on the jobs because we have worked together on many projects. This is the kind of field where you leave your ego at the door, roll up your sleeves and do what is expected The work can be very sensitive and I must maintain a confidentiality with regard to any information that is dispersed. There is also the ability to deal with a variety of personalities and establish a good working relationship with the site workers, other professionals and vendors. Eventually I will go back to a desk job in some kind of executive position and by then I will be ready to leave the outside elements and come inside. My work has been so very rewarding in so many ways. I always wanted to be an engineer and civil engineering gave me a range of specialties to choose from. Engineering can be complex and frustrating, but the end results can also be awesome.”
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I Am a Civil Engineering Consultant “I travel all over the world and consult with corporations and governments on public projects in their area. I have been a civil engineer for almost 30 years and have worked on every type of road and building you can imagine. I worked for a number of companies in the States and did everything from designing to managing. It has been a wonderful career and now I have earned the right to pick and choose what I want to do. About six years ago I established an engineering consulting firm with two other engineers who are structural and environmental engineers respectively. With my background in design and management, we pretty much cover most civil engineering projects. Both partners also have had long careers in the field, and combined we have made many good business contacts that help open doors to us. We may work harder now than we ever did before, but only on the projects we want to. My work now involves meeting with clients and looking over sites and hearing their proposed plans. I may only consult on the site or the particular facility and the feasibility of placing a building or a road in that area. My job may take weeks, or it can take months if I contract to see the project underway. I can revisit a project several times and with the magic of telecommunications can be in touch on a daily basis wherever I am. I am the oldest partner and my kids are grown, out of college and on their own. I can take on a six-month or longer project in Asia or elsewhere and my wife will come with me as she loves to travel and we often do side trips. I always made a really good living, and consulting is the icing on the cake. It has become the life that I once dreamed of when I started out after getting a bachelor’s degree in engineering. The work has changed since then. Computers have made the biggest difference, and I had to become proficient in the new technology to be able to compete. There are also the advances in telecommunications and how we communicate anywhere in an instant. There is new technology and always something more to learn. It is a challenge and one that I have met head-on for many years. 17
I hope you will seriously consider civil engineering as a career option. If you are interested in science and math and computers and challenges, civil engineering is a good match.”
PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS THE WORK OF CIVIL ENGINEERS IS VERY PRECISE AND COMPLEX AS THEY PLAN,
design and manage the construction and maintenance of public and private roads, bridges, buildings, airports, harbors, dams and other projects. What civil engineers need to be able to do their work effectively and efficiently are in three categories: knowledge, skills and abilities. Knowledge Engineering is applying the principles, techniques and procedures to the design and construction of the project. It is the perfect application of engineering science and technology and requires: Knowledge of design principles, techniques and the tools necessary to create for blueprints, models, and drawings Knowledge of mathematics and the applications of algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics Knowledge of the English language that includes the spelling and meaning of words, as well as the rules of grammar and composition Knowledge of building and construction methods, materials and tools necessary to any civil engineering project Knowledge of administration and management principles needed for strategic planning, the allocation of resources as well as coordinating people and resources, production methods, and leadership qualities Knowledge of security and public safety such as policies, procedures and strategies needed to protect people, property and data Knowledge of transportation principles and methods, costs and benefits of moving people and products Knowledge of interpersonal relationships in working with colleagues and clients in setting professional standards both in and out of the office 18
Skills What must be inherent as talent and acquired in education and training in order to perform effectively as a civil engineer include: Science and math skills to solve problems and handle the complex issues relating to identifying problems, developing strategies, evaluating options and implementing solutions Computer and other technology skills to use and comprehend the tools of the profession Critical thinking skills where logic and reasoning are employed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of approaches, conclusions or alternatives to the problem Good judgment and decision-making skills to always consider the appropriate action to be taken while keeping the relative costs and benefits and potential risks in focus Good listening and learning skills where full attention is given to the views of others and then fully understanding the implications of current and future information as it relates to problem-solving/decision-making process Negotiation and monitoring skills to bring all points of view into focus and reconciling differences, and then monitoring and assessing the work of all parties Excellent communication skills in writing, speaking, reporting. Abilities The civil engineer brings to every project and process creativity and originality in coming up with new and unusual ideas on problem-solving. Visualizing what shape the project will take when it is completed Deductive reasoning that helps you apply general rules to specific problems in order to come up with answers that will make sense Oral expression and comprehension to communicate information and ideas so others will understand, and then listening and understanding the information and ideas presented Sensitivity and confidentiality about the work, the client and your colleagues, and what you see and hear 19
THE POSITIVES ENGINEERING IS A RESPECTED CAREER THE WORLD OVER. ENGINEERS ARE LAUDED
for their skills, abilities and feats or accomplishments. The work of civil engineers is on display because of its bridges, roads, buildings and all the public and private projects that enhance our lives. Civil engineering is exciting and interesting and challenging and frustrating. Civil engineers are problem solvers and as such they bring ideas to reality and make the impossible possible. From a tiny pin in a weapons system to a huge hydraulic system for a dam, civil engineers envision it and then make it happen. Imagine the exhilaration of creating that specific something that will make structures stronger, get water to thousands more people, take airplanes to the next level of flight and on and on. Creating, assessing, designing, evaluating, implementing, monitoring – what a civil engineer does every day. Some projects are solved quickly while others can take years, but there is excitement in knowing you are doing a project or process that will make a positive difference to something that exists or create a whole new entity with even a new vocabulary. Engineers are curious professionals which is why they are in this field. Civil engineers build more than just bridges that go from point A to point B. They bridge the gap from what we do know to what more we can know and then make it possible. This is a very rewarding field because you get to see progress even if it comes in small increments. Civil engineers are well-respected professionals who can point with pride to their accomplishments. They make very good money and there is good potential for growth.
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THE NEGATIVES ENGINEERING IS VERY HARD WORK AND IT CAN BE VERY FRUSTRATING BECAUSE
you can work on solving a problem for years and then have to scrap the whole process and start over. There is great competition for the good jobs and loyalty to employees is a thing of the past. Civil engineers are in constant stressful positions because there is always a deadline to come up with some signs of progress. Answers do not always come easy and that creates frustrating situations with colleagues and clients alike. Everyone expects you to have the right mix of creativity and knowledge to be able to do anything. There is too much point the finger and assess blame if something goes wrong. Engineers can also be nerds, and only other engineers understand what they are talking about. The technology keeps advancing and by the time you are proficient in one computer program, for example, there is a new one to learn. The day is not long enough to perform miracles, calm fears, absorb new information or attend boring meetings. Yes, the money is good but the respect is not always there. It is a hassle to maintain your position in this field.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING ENGINEERS ARE AMONG THE BEST EDUCATED AND TRAINED PROFESSIONALS IN THE
world. Because they are in the forefront of technology and use sophisticated processes to design, construct and maintain complex projects, their education and subsequent training must be well-rounded in order to meet the challenges of the profession. If you want to be a civil engineer, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) says that you should start in high school. “A solid high school preparation should include courses in: English, algebra plane geometry, trigonometry, advanced mathematics, chemistry, physics, and a foundation in history, social studies, or foreign language. Computer courses are also highly recommended.” The American Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET), the recognized accreditation organization for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering and technology, currently lists more than 2,700 engineering and technology programs at over 550 colleges and universities across all 50 States. You can enter a civil engineering program at the freshman level after graduating from high school, or at the junior level after completing an approved two-year junior college program. 21
The programs vary at the particular institution. Most Bachelor of Engineering degree programs require at least four years of study. Some institutions offer a five-year program with a bachelor’s degree after the fourth year and a master’s degree after the fifth year. More school are now offering a five-year cooperative degree program where you alternate periods of engineering study with engineering-related employment. Earning part of your tuition costs while still working toward your degree is a plus. To view college and university programs, requirements, costs, and get more specific information on civil engineering degree programs, visit the ABET website at www.abet.org or the ASCE website at www.asce.org The ASCE also has activities for students that encourage professional development outside of the classroom. The ASCE notes that “a typical four-year program consists of: one year of mathematics and basic sciences; one year of engineering science and analysis; one year of engineering theory and design; and one year that includes social sciences, humanities, communications, ethics and professionalism, along with electives which complement your overall education.” Today, more than a third of civil engineering graduates continue on to get their master’s degree. And an increasing number are getting their doctorates to prepare for careers in research and teaching, and to solve more sophisticated design problems at a higher level. Whatever level you start at you will have to become a licensed professional engineer (PE) and complete the requirements for professional licensure that are established by the state or territory where you want to work. Engineering is a field where learning is ongoing. Old knowledge must be supplemented by new knowledge. There are continuing education programs at colleges and universities, professional societies that offer education and training through courses, seminars and conferences and more. If you want to be a civil engineer and rise to the top of your profession, then prepare yourself properly with the best education and training possible.
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EARNINGS CIVIL ENGINEERS EARN A GOOD LIVING AND WHILE MONEY SHOULD NEVER BE
the reason you enter a profession, it is reassuring to know that you can do well. Like other professions, what you earn is tied to the area of the country you work, the size of the company you work for, your work and responsibilities, and your level of education, training and experience. The median annual earnings for civil engineers is about $65,000, with the middle 50 percent earning between $50,000 and $75,000. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,000, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $90,000. Here are several industries which employ civil engineers with typical salary levels:
$70,000 Federal government $65,000 Local government $60,000 Architectural and engineering firms $55,000 State government $50,000 Nonresidential building construction A recent salary survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers list the average starting or entry-level salaries of civil engineers with a bachelor’s degree at $40,000; a master’s degree at $50,000; and a PhD candidate $70,000. The American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers in their Engineering Income and Salary Survey provide comparisons to average salaries of civil engineers by region: New England $71,000, Mid-Atlantic $78,000, Middle Southeast $73,500, Lower Southeast $72,500, Great Lakes $70,000, Central Plains $71,000, South Central $76,500, Upper Mountain $64,750, Lower Mountain $67,500, Pacific Northwest $72,000 and Pacific Southwest $80,000.
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OPPORTUNITIES CIVIL ENGINEERS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN IN THE FOREFRONT OF TECHNOLOGY. JUST
look across America and around the world and you will see amazing feats of engineering that have captured our imaginations and enhanced our lives. That was yesterday. There is still today and tomorrow. Recent civil engineering feats are making history in a big way. One example is The Channel Tunnel – nicknamed the Chunnel – linking England and France undersea! This ranks among the largest engineering projects in history and the longest undersea tunnel ever built. Another example is the creation of high-speed bullet trains now being used in Europe and Japan and being proposed here to solve transportation problems. The civil engineering challenges for the 21st century are enormous. The future problem-solvers will have to address urban redevelopment and our crumbling infrastructure, community planing and the allocation of resources, the traffic congestion that clogs all major roads and Interstate highways, finding new ways to conserve energy while meeting needs, ensuring that we have clean drinking water, and the continuing development of the space station and the technology necessary to live in space. These and many more challenges will be found in public and private employment as well as federal, state and local governments agencies in all the 50 United States and around the world. Civil engineers will find opportunities with utility companies, construction companies, telecommunication businesses, engineering firms, international corporations, and consulting firms. From ground transit systems to space satellites, civil engineers will conceive, plan, design, construct, operate and manage the projects and processes essential to modern living. Public welfare and safety will be the guide to the civil engineering feats of the 21st century. The American Society of Civil Engineers wants you to “Set the pace for the future by becoming a civil engineer. The world of tomorrow will look to you to help clean the air, improve our cities and transportation systems, purify our water, and provide many solutions that are vital to life. With the skills you learn, you can be among the leaders shaping our 21st century.”
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GETTING STARTED IF YOUR TALENTS AND INTERESTS ARE IN THE ENGINEERING FIELD IN GENERAL AND
civil engineering in particular, then you had better start planning your future now! Why? Because there are courses you should now be taking in high school and planning to take in college. This is not a field you can jump right into. This must be a carefully thought out and planned with a goal in mind as to where you want to be in five, 10 or 20 years from now. Getting started means you do the research and legwork. You now know the basics of civil engineering, and the second Careers Report in this series will give more specifics on structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, and other specialties. If you are not sure and want to check out other engineering specialties or different careers, visit Careers Internet Database at www.careers-internet.org Consider, are science, mathematics, computers and other technologies on your radar screen? Are you a good student with good grades? Do you have good study habits? Are you ever curious about how they did that? Do you like to solve problems? Are you a team player? Would you like to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to a building, waterway, neighborhood, city, state and our country? Read up on civil engineering history, accomplishments and future at websites listed below. There are also books in your public library that may answer some of your questions. Talk to professionals in the field. Call and visit civil engineering firms, government agencies and other entities that employ civil engineers and go armed with questions about their work, potential growth, salaries and more. Invite a civil engineer to speak before your class and answer questions. Check out engineering courses and degree programs in different colleges and universities so you are aware of the requirements and costs. Your career is too important to leave to chance or the last minute. An engineering degree is hard to come by and can be costly. Make sure that this is what you want. Talk with your school counselor, teachers, family and friends about your interest in civil engineering and listen to their comments and suggestions. Every step you take now will help you eventually become a better engineer later, someone who has done the homework and made the right decision. This could be the rest of your life. Make it count. 25
ASSOCIATIONS American Association of Engineering Societies
www.aaes.org American Board of Engineering & Technology
www.abet.org American Society of Civil Engineers
www.asce.org American Society for Engineering Education
www.asee.org Association for Bridge Construction and Design
http://abcdpittsburgh.org Association of State Dam Safety Officials
www.damsafety.org Civil Engineering Research Foundation
www.cerf.org Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
www.ctbuh.org National Academy of Engineering
www.nae.edu National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering
www.nacme.org National Society of Professional Engineers
www.nspe.org Society of Women Engineers
www.swe.org
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PERIODICALS The Bridge
www.nae.edu Civil Engineering Magazine
www.pubs.asce.org Engineering Times
www.nspe.org/1et.asp PRISM Magazine
www.asee.org/about/publications/index.cfm The following can all be found at:
www.pubs.asce.org/journals/jrns.html Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering Journal of Structural Engineering Journal of Water Resources Planning & Management Journal of Urban Planning & Development Leadership & Management in Engineering HELPFUL CIVIL ENGINEERING WEBSITE
www.icivilengineer.com
COPYRIGHT Institute For Career Research 2009 CAREERS INTERNET DATABASE www.careers-internet.org
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CIVIL ENGINEERING
Institute Research Number 2 ISBN 1-58511-002-7 DOT Number 005.061-014 O*Net SOC Code 17-2051.00
CAREERS IN
CIVIL ENGINEERING FROM THE MOMENT YOU OPEN YOUR EYES IN THE MORNING THROUGH TO THE
last glimpse of light before you sleep, engineering marvels are part of your world. The lights you turn on; the radio and television you play; the running water in your bathroom and kitchen; the refrigerator, freezer, stove, microwave and other appliances you use; the streets you walk on and the highways and bridges you drive over; the structures you work in and live in; the cars, trucks, buses, trains, planes, boats you ride in, as well as the fuel and electricity that propels them; the computers, CD and DVD players you use; the cell phones and iPods you cannot live without – all started with an engineering idea.
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In the book Engineering - An Endless Frontier, author Sunny Y. Auyang, a physicist who is exploring science and technology writes, “Natural scientists discover what was not known. Engineers create what did not exist. Both boldly go where no one has gone before. Each original and creative in its own way. Through intensive research efforts in the past 50 years, engineers have developed engineering sciences, bodies of coherent knowledge that are comparable to the natural sciences in their length of vision, breadth of scope, depth of analysis, level of creativity, rigor of research, and criteria of acceptance.” Engineering is the application of scientific and technical knowledge to address problems, make tasks easier, create new processes, design new products and much more. From waste disposal methods that are environmentally sound, to designing a flashlight, to stronger and more flexible plastic, engineering is specialized scientific knowledge. It is high-tech and based on logical, systemic problem solving. Engineering has choices within its different specialties such as agricultural engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering and petroleum engineering to name a few. Civil engineering, one of the largest branches of the profession will be the subject of this Careers Report, the first of a two-part series. This report will cover all the basics, to be followed by Civil Engineering: The Technical Specialties that will focus on geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, construction engineering, transportation engineering and more. Defining civil engineering is like a history lesson in time. From earliest recorded time people have managed the building of imposing structures without the tools and equipment we have come to know and appreciate in modern times. How did they ever do that without the tools and equipment? This question has been a puzzler down through the centuries, and all we really know is that those that who recorded the process in drawings and symbols left enough information to encourage artisans and craftsmen and scientists throughout history to continue and advance the knowledge base to the profession we now know today as civil engineering. It has truly been 50 centuries in the making. When the American Society of Civil Engineering was founded in 1852, “Facilities for communication and transport were sorely needed to integrate these regional elements into a national structure for trade 3
and commerce. Fortunately, these services were to be forthcoming through many bold and imaginative enterprises in which engineers played an important role.” (From The American Civil Engineer, 1852-1974, by William H. Wisely) Civil engineering is also more than just creating, designing, constructing, maintaining and managing projects and processes, it is also the meshing of the environment – air, earth and water – with built structures, and how the particular engineering task blends in and complements the world around us. Civil engineers understand about preservation and protection and restoration. Civil engineers are the backbone of the engineering profession as they design and supervise the construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, dams, buildings, airports, water supply and sewage systems. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), “Aside from traditional engineering firms, civil engineers may work with utility companies, telecommunications businesses, consulting firms, or even toy and athletic equipment manufacturers. A civil engineering degree can lead you to a career in industry, government, computers, law, or medicine.”
IMPORTANT CAREER FOR THE 21ST CENTURY THIS IS AN IMPORTANT CAREER FOR TWO VERY SPECIFIC REASONS: THE PAST. THE
Future. We are an aging society not only in our population, but also in our infrastructure. Many of our roads, buildings and bridges were constructed during the Great Depression years of the 1930s, and still others have been in use since before the turn of the last century. The Industrial Revolution that swept Europe in the 1800s and came to America half way through the 19th century was the catalyst for a building boom that some say has not ever stopped. One of the most famous bridges in the country is the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was built between 1867 and 1884. And there are many examples of roads and structures more than a hundred years old that now are in need of repair or replacement. As our country continues a growth in population there is great concern about our natural resources, such as water, and how we address the demands of people versus conservation to accommodate future generations. The Colorado River, one of the longest rivers in the 4
world, and the Colorado River Aqueduct that in 1955 was designated one of the “Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders of the United States,” are once again under civil engineering review. This action in underway in order to determine what new engineering course to pursue so as to serve an ever-growing population in the West and still preserve the environment and natural resources. Roads span the past and the future as vehicle traffic seems to increase ten-fold every generation. We are a nation on wheels and we want our city streets, country lanes and Interstate highways to be safe and sound. Whether we are off to work or on a cross-country trek, the roads are clogged and becoming worn at an increasing and sometimes alarming rate. After healthcare, road and bridge construction and maintenance is a high-priority and high-priced budget item for governments across the country. The multitude of buildings that are old and will need work, along with the many new buildings that will rise over this century will attest to the creativity and innovation of the civil engineers who must study the past in order to serve the future. The world has changed since September 11, 2001 (the World Trade Center in 1971 was selected as an “Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement”) and the entire engineering profession is working with other specialists and technologists taking a new look at how we construct buildings and what can be done to make them as safe as possible. Preservation societies across the country are rushing to cite examples of engineering feats among the oldest structures in existence and save them from demolition, but many will need a good deal of restoration. It will be a shame to lose some of the best architecture this country has even known to the wrecking ball. It is a history that once destroyed we can never reclaim. In March of 2005, the American Society of Civil Engineers reported that our nation’s infrastructure is “crumbling” and gave us a grade of D. Many challenges needed in the future were cited in 12 categories including schools, airports, roadways, bridges, railroads, drinking water systems, public facilities like parks, and the power grid. Perhaps you, the next generation of civil engineers, will be able to make a significant contribution to urban and suburban buildings, bridges and roads as you preserve the past while pushing the creative envelope for an exciting, ground-breaking future that is unimaginable today.
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CIVIL ENGINEERING REVEALED CIVIL ENGINEERING IS ONE OF THE OLDEST SPECIALTIES IN THE FIELD OF
engineering, dating back to the late 1700s and becoming a professional force to reckon with in the early 1800s leading up to the founding of the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1852. Civil engineering has grown up with America. From the first organized construction of a road in 1806 in the Northwest Territory to the design of NASA’s space shuttle, civil engineers have been involved, contributing their expertise and innovation in moving America forward throughout our history. Civil engineers plan, design and oversee the construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities such as roads, bridges, railroads, airports, harbors, channels, dams, power plants, irrigation projects, pipelines, water and sewage systems, and waste disposal projects. These professionals are the crucial link between the goals of a project and its reality. The many components to typical civil engineering project include: Gathering and analyzing topographical and geologic data such as survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, and aerial photos. Testing soils and materials to determine whether the strength and adequacy of the foundation, concrete, asphalt or steel are right for the project. Conducting studies of traffic patterns and environmental conditions to help identify any engineering problems while assessing the potential impact of the proposed project. Determining project feasibility by estimating quantities and cost of the materials, equipment and labor needed for the project completion. Preparing and presenting all the public reports such as bid proposals, deeds. environmental impact studies, and property and right-of-way descriptions. Directing or participating in the surveying to lay out installations and establish reference points, grades and elevations that will help guide construction.
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Inspecting project sites to monitor progress and ensure that design specifications, and safety and sanitation standards are in conformity. Also, directing construction, operations and maintenance activities at the project site. Providing technical advice to industrial and managerial personnel regarding the project in such areas as the design, modifications, structural repairs, and construction methods. Civil engineers are savvy in the science of engineering and technology, mathematics, design, building, construction, transportation, public safety, security, administration, management, communications, and satisfying the client and consumer with personal services. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of the city planners in the US are civil engineers.
A LOOK BACK “ENGINEERING WAS NOT SPOKEN INTO EXISTENCE BY ROYAL DECREE OR CREATED
by legislative fiat. It has evolved and developed as a practical art and a profession over more than 50 centuries of recorded history. In a broad sense, its roots can be traced to the dawn of civilization itself, and its progress parallels the progress of mankind.” From the Introduction to Engineering, by Paul H. Wright. Inscribed clay tablets discovered on archeological digs and eventually deciphered show that the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia had the first recorded system of canals, temples and city walls. Also known is that the early Egyptians, about 3300 BC, had a large population living along the fertile valley of the Nile, and they developed and maintained an extensive system of dykes and canals and a drainage system. Other populations in the valleys of the Tigris and Euphrates developed large irrigation and flood control systems. The first pyramid was built in 2980 BC and evolved from a tomb that had been too easy for grave robbers to access from the top. Placing one level on top of another made it impossible to do that, but history tells us that many pyramids were desecrated. Three pyramids still stand at Giza reminding the world that the ancient Egyptians had outstanding engineering skills. A Greek historian who visited Egypt in the fifth century, BC, recorded that the Great Pyramid was built by 100,000 men over 20 years and that they worked in three-month relays. 7
By about 600 BC, the Greeks added architecton to their advances in art, literature and philosophy, as they became the first great master harbor builders. They also built the first lighthouse in the world about 300 BC. This 370-foot-high structure was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ruler Pericles, who signified the Golden Age of Greece, helped make Athens the most beautiful place on earth by hiring artists and building experts to construct temples and shrines, and statues on the Acropolis. The Romans, starting about 535 BC, were the most prolific engineers of antiquity devoting more of their labor and resources to public works than their predecessors. Romans had slaves so labor was cheap, and raw materials were in abundance, so they built arenas, public forums, temples, town halls, roads, aqueducts and baths. The buildings were practical and at the same time bold in execution and impressive in scale. Unlike the Greeks who were heavily into mathematical logic and science, the Romans relied on experience and emphasized function. The fall of the Roman Empire ushered in the Middle Ages which lasted about eight centuries and did not produce any significant engineering feats with one exception – the Gothic cathedrals. These towering, elegant structures with their stained glass windows, pointed central arches and high thin walls point to a high level of structural competence from those who designed them and those who built them. Also during this period, the wind mill was developed and water mills were improved and used in more ways. There was a push to get more production out of humans and animals. Starting about 1300 AD, scientific advances were being made in transportation and communication. Italian architect-engineers invented the canal lock making it possible for countries throughout Europe to build a network of canals for inland water travel. Advances in navigation devices and shipbuilding designs made ocean transport a reality. About 1450, Johann Gutenberg invented the movable type mole and printed the first book. By 1500, books were being published on such scientific and engineering subjects as surveying, mining, metallurgy, chemistry and hydraulics. Some of the greatest contributions to scientific knowledge that are still felt today came in the 15th through 17th centuries, with such luminaries as: Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), Italian artist, architect, experimental scientist, conceptual designer; Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543), Polish astronomer and founder of modern astronomy; 8
Galileo Gallelei (1564-1642), Italian astronomer and physicist who formulated the scientific method of gaining knowledge and was the first to use the telescope to study astronomy; Robert Boyle (1627-1691), Irish chemist and physicist who studied the compression and expansion of air and other gases and discovered that the volume of gas at a constant temperature varies inversely with its pressure (Boyle’s Law); Robert Hooke (1635-1703), English experimental scientist who formulated a theory of elasticity known as Hooke’s Law ; Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727), English scientist and mathematician who invented calculus, discovered the secrets of light and color, and formulated the law of gravity; Thomas Newcomen (1663-1729), English inventor who built the first practical steam engine that pumped water from British mines.
The Industrial Revolution Coke, a lighter more porous form of coal was developed for steam-driven mine pumps and for the driving of machinery in the ironworks factories and for new blowing machines to aid in the smelting process. In 1807 in America, Robert Fulton pioneered the first commercially successful river paddle steamship, and by 1825, Englishman George Stephenson demonstrated the feasibility of a steam-powered railroad locomotive. In America during the 1800s, canal construction took on a life of its own with such blockbusters as: The Erie Canal, built from 1817-1825, 364 miles long and connecting Erie, Pennsylvania and Buffalo, New York; The Ohio Canal, built from 1828-1836 and extending through the state from Cleveland to Portsmouth on the Ohio River; The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, built from 1828-1850 and extending from Washington, DC to Cumberland, Maryland. Also during this period, there were advances in the technology of building roads and, of course, one of the greatest engineering achievements of all time – the harnessing of electric energy. This new source of power made possible the many scientific and engineering achievements of the 1800s. During the first half of the 19th century, America had a national population of about 10 million with almost 90 percent of the people living in rural areas and settlements of less than 2,500. The railroad brought new urgency to bridge building and the first metal truss bridge that was cast in wrought iron was designed and built by the Reading Railroad in 1845. By 1856, the Bessemer converter was introduced and this ushered in the Steel Age.
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In America, civil engineering was a significant influence in the building of our country. The need for new technology was as alive here as it was in Europe and there was a push on to create professional organizations that would set standards and encourage the exchange of information. While it was 28 years in the making, the American Society of Civil Engineering was formally organized in 1852 as the first national professional engineering organization. By the end of the 19th century, electric power in America was becoming an essential part of daily life, with the development of the telegraph, telephone, and light bulb. Electric lighting for homes and industries was growing. Electricity was running trains and street cars and the machinery in our factories. A half million telephones were in use. The 20th century ushered in more outstanding innovations with the development of motor vehicles and the Wright brothers 12-second flight. Both of these science and engineering developments eventually led to modern mass production. By the end of the century, about nine out of every 10 households in the country had least one car to drive over 3.8 million miles of highways that included a 45,500-mile Interstate Highway System. During this same time we built more than 3,000 airports for commercial planes and another 2,200 general aviation airports to serve the smaller, private airplanes. We were on a civil engineering roll and the public took to each new feat. Additional civil engineering feats in the treatment of water and sewage helped eliminate diseases such as typhoid fever that claimed more than 10,000 lives in 1906 and was reduced to a handful two decades later. Other remarkable feats included the building of the Panama Canal which opened in 1914; the Empire State Building in 1931 at a height of 1250 feet; the Hoover Dam completed in 1936, the Sears Tower in 1974 and on and on. Now in the 21st century we can communicate anywhere and everywhere in a nanosecond and fly around the world using the technologies developed step by step over the past centuries. We may never really find out how ancient civilizations accomplished their feats, but we do know that their daring has led us to our bold achievements.
New frontiers are still to be discovered and
conquered and civil engineering feats will continue to make history. 10
WHAT CIVIL ENGINEERS DO THE RESULTS OF CIVIL ENGINEERING PART OF EVERYONE’S LIFE. IN THE BUILDINGS
where you work and live and the power grids that deliver their energy; on the roads and bridges and tunnels you walk or drive over and through; in the airports you use for business and pleasure; in the dams and water supply and sewage systems that keep you safe from toxic materials and industrial waste and more. Civil engineers usually work near major industrial areas and commercial centers, and can often be found at construction sites. They also work on projects around the world, some in remote areas. Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of just about everything from toys to buildings. To give you a sampling of the great variety of their work, here are descriptions of actual positions for civil engineers: Senior project designer for a land development and construction management firm to lead design team through all phases of land development engineering activities such as storm water, sanitary sewer, water systems and road design. A leadership position requiring superior engineering design, a wide range of field experience and excellent communication skills. Management analyst with the federal government to provide technical, analytical, and management support for defense projects. Duties include reviewing and commenting on program studies, drafting of position papers, reviewing procurement schedules, analyzing programs for enhancement, preparing electronic briefings, and reviewing funding profiles. Candidate must have security clearance. Project manager/site construction for a franchise organization with the ability to oversee all aspects of construction from maintaining the schedule and keeping on budget, to reviewing contracts and permits and working with architects and other engineers. You will need excellent communication, technical and computer skills. Travel is required for site reviews. Civil project manager for a Fortune 500 company with 30,000 employees operating in over 70 countries around the world and currently You will need knowledge of basic and complex civil engineering concepts to work with other engineering and construction professionals to manage and be accountable for projects in residential, industrial, commercial and municipal development. 11
Civil engineer for a local engineering and architectural firm that designs and manages highway projects in the state with experience in and understanding of highway design. Construction project engineer/estimator for a company responsible for the development, review and implementation plans and schedules for large capital projects of $5 million or more. Develop and review capital repair cost estimates. Train engineers and managers on best use of cost estimating tools and techniques. Civil engineer for an engineering firm that does business with the federal government and must perform specific project design and development tasks including drawings, calculations, cost estimates and specifications. You will respond to clients’ questions and comments, and review and provide clarifications during construction. Must be able to obtain a security clearance and have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the architectural and engineering industry. Civil engineer for a company that constructs buildings must be highly proficient in the analysis and design of concrete foundations and steel frame structures. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required along with connecting with all engineering, design and field construction disciplines. Excellent computer skills a must. Civil engineer for an aviation company to design and supervise construction projects on airports and roads leading to airports, estimating costs and personnel and material needs. Civil engineer for an information technology company to design systems including electrical, power communications and signal for educational, healthcare and correctional facilities. Preparation of construction drawings and specifications, cost estimates and field investigations. Must have good communication skills, demonstrated managerial skills, ability to lead a design team, and meet schedules and budgets. All civil engineers make decisions and solve problems; they provide documentation, drawings, specifications and detailed instructions on devices, parts, structures, and equipment. They analyze data and other information using computers and other technology. They are creative thinkers and know how to organize, plan and prioritize work. They transcribe, record, store and maintain information. They have excellent communication skills with peers, supervisors and others. Civil engineers are always in the forefront of technology and leading users of high-tech products as they design and construct. 12
WHERE CIVIL ENGINEERS WORK CIVIL ENGINEERS HOLD ABOUT 250,000 JOBS NATIONWIDE. ALMOST HALF ARE
employed by firms providing architectural, engineering, and related services, primarily developing designs for new construction projects. Almost one-third of the jobs are in federal, state and local government agencies. The rest work in the construction industry. About 15,000 civil engineers are self-employed, mostly as consultants. Civil engineers work in large urban and suburban areas, small towns and along city and state roads and Interstate highways in all 50 States. They also work in most countries of the world and in some very remote places in the underdeveloped nations, bringing roads and other infrastructure to people for the first time. Civil engineers work for architectural and engineering firms, national and international corporations, construction companies, telecommunication businesses, utility companies, consulting firms and government agencies. They can also be employed by toy manufacturers and health equipment manufacturers as designers.
Because
civil engineers are taught to make sound decisions and are good communicators, they make good business executives. Many corporate executives started out as a civil engineer. Civil engineers can also have careers in law, research and medicine, as well as in teaching.
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CIVIL ENGINEERS TELL THEIR OWN STORIES I Am a Civil Engineer Design Specialist “Design is one of the most complex, challenging, interesting and frustrating aspects of the engineering field and I wouldn’t have it any other way. You know, design has been with us since the beginning of time and it was passed on through the centuries from artisans and craftsmen to their apprentices. In engineering, design means a possible creative solution to a problem whether old or new. I work for a company that specializes in design processes and systems for aircraft. I have been with the company almost 15 years, and I am part of a team of specialists that look at certain types of aircraft to determine how they can function better and be safer. We identify the problem and then work to solve it. We can make simulated models on the computer and we can build full-scale models depending upon the particular process or system we are working on. Our diversified team does a lot of brainstorming as we tackle our work. It is important to generate as many ideas as possible, some of which may be impractical, but all are recorded and evaluated. We develop a checklist so that we can examine all the various points and design possibilities such as the color, shape, material, lever or push-button and if the device could have other uses, be made smaller or larger and other ideas. Once we have gathered the necessary information, then we decide on an approach to solving our problem, and that is a preliminary design. This is the crux of my work as this next step requires my engineering experience and expertise. I mold and modify the design over and over again, discarding what does not work and making alternative configurations, dimensions and other specifications. A solution may be brought before the team and rejected for specific reasons. Back to the basics and a new set of options to be tested and evaluated. This process can be ongoing as feedback and evaluation can only bring about a better solution. The answers can come in a reasonable amount of time or it can take months, even years to bring about a workable solution. 14
It is a process that is filled with challenge and frustration as you realize that the right answer is almost within your reach and just needs a small piece to complete and solve the puzzle. I always wanted to be an engineer and build things. I have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering and also my professional engineer’s license. My first civil engineering job was with a construction company and after almost four years realized that I was more interested in the design aspect of engineering. It took me almost a year to find this job and then convince my boss that I could be part of the team even though I had no prior aviation experience. It has worked out very well. Good pay. Good benefits. Really good job.”
I Am a Civil Engineer Construction Project Manager “I work for city government in a large metropolitan area and my work involves the construction of new public facilities and the streets surrounding them and the roads leading up to them. It is work that interacts with many other professionals and agencies and my responsibility is moving the project forward, on schedule and on budget. This means that I know and am comfortable with every aspect of the project and understand all the engineering and architectural plans, drawings, and documentation. I consider my work multi-tasking because I always have so many things going on at once. My work starts after the site plan has been approved and all the ordinances and municipal procedures have been addressed. The project is then fully discussed with all parties including any other engineers, architects and construction professionals that have taken the project from idea to reality. I lead and work with a team of engineers and construction professionals who ensure that every aspect of the construction is where it should be on any given day. Safety and welfare are prime concerns on the job not just for the workers, but for the public who will eventually use the structure.
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My work involves analyzing and evaluating all the information that is generated on a daily basis and making sound judgments in the decision process. I must give my full attention to the smallest detail so that no potential problem is overlooked. I can review and sign dozens of documents every day. I write many reports, letters and other documentation with an assurance that my superiors have come to expect from me. I have both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering. I have worked for the city since I graduated from college. I started out in design but did not like desk work as much as being in the field, so I took a few extra courses in construction management and passed additional testing to qualify. I worked with a team for more than seven years before I was given a chance at managing a city road project. That was some years ago and I have been going strong ever since. I am now considered a senior manager and get to oversee some of the largest projects in our area. I have a good working relationship with the professional team that usually comes with me on the jobs because we have worked together on many projects. This is the kind of field where you leave your ego at the door, roll up your sleeves and do what is expected The work can be very sensitive and I must maintain a confidentiality with regard to any information that is dispersed. There is also the ability to deal with a variety of personalities and establish a good working relationship with the site workers, other professionals and vendors. Eventually I will go back to a desk job in some kind of executive position and by then I will be ready to leave the outside elements and come inside. My work has been so very rewarding in so many ways. I always wanted to be an engineer and civil engineering gave me a range of specialties to choose from. Engineering can be complex and frustrating, but the end results can also be awesome.”
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I Am a Civil Engineering Consultant “I travel all over the world and consult with corporations and governments on public projects in their area. I have been a civil engineer for almost 30 years and have worked on every type of road and building you can imagine. I worked for a number of companies in the States and did everything from designing to managing. It has been a wonderful career and now I have earned the right to pick and choose what I want to do. About six years ago I established an engineering consulting firm with two other engineers who are structural and environmental engineers respectively. With my background in design and management, we pretty much cover most civil engineering projects. Both partners also have had long careers in the field, and combined we have made many good business contacts that help open doors to us. We may work harder now than we ever did before, but only on the projects we want to. My work now involves meeting with clients and looking over sites and hearing their proposed plans. I may only consult on the site or the particular facility and the feasibility of placing a building or a road in that area. My job may take weeks, or it can take months if I contract to see the project underway. I can revisit a project several times and with the magic of telecommunications can be in touch on a daily basis wherever I am. I am the oldest partner and my kids are grown, out of college and on their own. I can take on a six-month or longer project in Asia or elsewhere and my wife will come with me as she loves to travel and we often do side trips. I always made a really good living, and consulting is the icing on the cake. It has become the life that I once dreamed of when I started out after getting a bachelor’s degree in engineering. The work has changed since then. Computers have made the biggest difference, and I had to become proficient in the new technology to be able to compete. There are also the advances in telecommunications and how we communicate anywhere in an instant. There is new technology and always something more to learn. It is a challenge and one that I have met head-on for many years. 17
I hope you will seriously consider civil engineering as a career option. If you are interested in science and math and computers and challenges, civil engineering is a good match.”
PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS THE WORK OF CIVIL ENGINEERS IS VERY PRECISE AND COMPLEX AS THEY PLAN,
design and manage the construction and maintenance of public and private roads, bridges, buildings, airports, harbors, dams and other projects. What civil engineers need to be able to do their work effectively and efficiently are in three categories: knowledge, skills and abilities. Knowledge Engineering is applying the principles, techniques and procedures to the design and construction of the project. It is the perfect application of engineering science and technology and requires: Knowledge of design principles, techniques and the tools necessary to create for blueprints, models, and drawings Knowledge of mathematics and the applications of algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics Knowledge of the English language that includes the spelling and meaning of words, as well as the rules of grammar and composition Knowledge of building and construction methods, materials and tools necessary to any civil engineering project Knowledge of administration and management principles needed for strategic planning, the allocation of resources as well as coordinating people and resources, production methods, and leadership qualities Knowledge of security and public safety such as policies, procedures and strategies needed to protect people, property and data Knowledge of transportation principles and methods, costs and benefits of moving people and products Knowledge of interpersonal relationships in working with colleagues and clients in setting professional standards both in and out of the office 18
Skills What must be inherent as talent and acquired in education and training in order to perform effectively as a civil engineer include: Science and math skills to solve problems and handle the complex issues relating to identifying problems, developing strategies, evaluating options and implementing solutions Computer and other technology skills to use and comprehend the tools of the profession Critical thinking skills where logic and reasoning are employed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of approaches, conclusions or alternatives to the problem Good judgment and decision-making skills to always consider the appropriate action to be taken while keeping the relative costs and benefits and potential risks in focus Good listening and learning skills where full attention is given to the views of others and then fully understanding the implications of current and future information as it relates to problem-solving/decision-making process Negotiation and monitoring skills to bring all points of view into focus and reconciling differences, and then monitoring and assessing the work of all parties Excellent communication skills in writing, speaking, reporting. Abilities The civil engineer brings to every project and process creativity and originality in coming up with new and unusual ideas on problem-solving. Visualizing what shape the project will take when it is completed Deductive reasoning that helps you apply general rules to specific problems in order to come up with answers that will make sense Oral expression and comprehension to communicate information and ideas so others will understand, and then listening and understanding the information and ideas presented Sensitivity and confidentiality about the work, the client and your colleagues, and what you see and hear 19
THE POSITIVES ENGINEERING IS A RESPECTED CAREER THE WORLD OVER. ENGINEERS ARE LAUDED
for their skills, abilities and feats or accomplishments. The work of civil engineers is on display because of its bridges, roads, buildings and all the public and private projects that enhance our lives. Civil engineering is exciting and interesting and challenging and frustrating. Civil engineers are problem solvers and as such they bring ideas to reality and make the impossible possible. From a tiny pin in a weapons system to a huge hydraulic system for a dam, civil engineers envision it and then make it happen. Imagine the exhilaration of creating that specific something that will make structures stronger, get water to thousands more people, take airplanes to the next level of flight and on and on. Creating, assessing, designing, evaluating, implementing, monitoring – what a civil engineer does every day. Some projects are solved quickly while others can take years, but there is excitement in knowing you are doing a project or process that will make a positive difference to something that exists or create a whole new entity with even a new vocabulary. Engineers are curious professionals which is why they are in this field. Civil engineers build more than just bridges that go from point A to point B. They bridge the gap from what we do know to what more we can know and then make it possible. This is a very rewarding field because you get to see progress even if it comes in small increments. Civil engineers are well-respected professionals who can point with pride to their accomplishments. They make very good money and there is good potential for growth.
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THE NEGATIVES ENGINEERING IS VERY HARD WORK AND IT CAN BE VERY FRUSTRATING BECAUSE
you can work on solving a problem for years and then have to scrap the whole process and start over. There is great competition for the good jobs and loyalty to employees is a thing of the past. Civil engineers are in constant stressful positions because there is always a deadline to come up with some signs of progress. Answers do not always come easy and that creates frustrating situations with colleagues and clients alike. Everyone expects you to have the right mix of creativity and knowledge to be able to do anything. There is too much point the finger and assess blame if something goes wrong. Engineers can also be nerds, and only other engineers understand what they are talking about. The technology keeps advancing and by the time you are proficient in one computer program, for example, there is a new one to learn. The day is not long enough to perform miracles, calm fears, absorb new information or attend boring meetings. Yes, the money is good but the respect is not always there. It is a hassle to maintain your position in this field.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING ENGINEERS ARE AMONG THE BEST EDUCATED AND TRAINED PROFESSIONALS IN THE
world. Because they are in the forefront of technology and use sophisticated processes to design, construct and maintain complex projects, their education and subsequent training must be well-rounded in order to meet the challenges of the profession. If you want to be a civil engineer, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) says that you should start in high school. “A solid high school preparation should include courses in: English, algebra plane geometry, trigonometry, advanced mathematics, chemistry, physics, and a foundation in history, social studies, or foreign language. Computer courses are also highly recommended.” The American Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET), the recognized accreditation organization for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering and technology, currently lists more than 2,700 engineering and technology programs at over 550 colleges and universities across all 50 States. You can enter a civil engineering program at the freshman level after graduating from high school, or at the junior level after completing an approved two-year junior college program. 21
The programs vary at the particular institution. Most Bachelor of Engineering degree programs require at least four years of study. Some institutions offer a five-year program with a bachelor’s degree after the fourth year and a master’s degree after the fifth year. More school are now offering a five-year cooperative degree program where you alternate periods of engineering study with engineering-related employment. Earning part of your tuition costs while still working toward your degree is a plus. To view college and university programs, requirements, costs, and get more specific information on civil engineering degree programs, visit the ABET website at www.abet.org or the ASCE website at www.asce.org The ASCE also has activities for students that encourage professional development outside of the classroom. The ASCE notes that “a typical four-year program consists of: one year of mathematics and basic sciences; one year of engineering science and analysis; one year of engineering theory and design; and one year that includes social sciences, humanities, communications, ethics and professionalism, along with electives which complement your overall education.” Today, more than a third of civil engineering graduates continue on to get their master’s degree. And an increasing number are getting their doctorates to prepare for careers in research and teaching, and to solve more sophisticated design problems at a higher level. Whatever level you start at you will have to become a licensed professional engineer (PE) and complete the requirements for professional licensure that are established by the state or territory where you want to work. Engineering is a field where learning is ongoing. Old knowledge must be supplemented by new knowledge. There are continuing education programs at colleges and universities, professional societies that offer education and training through courses, seminars and conferences and more. If you want to be a civil engineer and rise to the top of your profession, then prepare yourself properly with the best education and training possible.
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EARNINGS CIVIL ENGINEERS EARN A GOOD LIVING AND WHILE MONEY SHOULD NEVER BE
the reason you enter a profession, it is reassuring to know that you can do well. Like other professions, what you earn is tied to the area of the country you work, the size of the company you work for, your work and responsibilities, and your level of education, training and experience. The median annual earnings for civil engineers is about $65,000, with the middle 50 percent earning between $50,000 and $75,000. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,000, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $90,000. Here are several industries which employ civil engineers with typical salary levels:
$70,000 Federal government $65,000 Local government $60,000 Architectural and engineering firms $55,000 State government $50,000 Nonresidential building construction A recent salary survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers list the average starting or entry-level salaries of civil engineers with a bachelor’s degree at $40,000; a master’s degree at $50,000; and a PhD candidate $70,000. The American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers in their Engineering Income and Salary Survey provide comparisons to average salaries of civil engineers by region: New England $71,000, Mid-Atlantic $78,000, Middle Southeast $73,500, Lower Southeast $72,500, Great Lakes $70,000, Central Plains $71,000, South Central $76,500, Upper Mountain $64,750, Lower Mountain $67,500, Pacific Northwest $72,000 and Pacific Southwest $80,000.
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OPPORTUNITIES CIVIL ENGINEERS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN IN THE FOREFRONT OF TECHNOLOGY. JUST
look across America and around the world and you will see amazing feats of engineering that have captured our imaginations and enhanced our lives. That was yesterday. There is still today and tomorrow. Recent civil engineering feats are making history in a big way. One example is The Channel Tunnel – nicknamed the Chunnel – linking England and France undersea! This ranks among the largest engineering projects in history and the longest undersea tunnel ever built. Another example is the creation of high-speed bullet trains now being used in Europe and Japan and being proposed here to solve transportation problems. The civil engineering challenges for the 21st century are enormous. The future problem-solvers will have to address urban redevelopment and our crumbling infrastructure, community planing and the allocation of resources, the traffic congestion that clogs all major roads and Interstate highways, finding new ways to conserve energy while meeting needs, ensuring that we have clean drinking water, and the continuing development of the space station and the technology necessary to live in space. These and many more challenges will be found in public and private employment as well as federal, state and local governments agencies in all the 50 United States and around the world. Civil engineers will find opportunities with utility companies, construction companies, telecommunication businesses, engineering firms, international corporations, and consulting firms. From ground transit systems to space satellites, civil engineers will conceive, plan, design, construct, operate and manage the projects and processes essential to modern living. Public welfare and safety will be the guide to the civil engineering feats of the 21st century. The American Society of Civil Engineers wants you to “Set the pace for the future by becoming a civil engineer. The world of tomorrow will look to you to help clean the air, improve our cities and transportation systems, purify our water, and provide many solutions that are vital to life. With the skills you learn, you can be among the leaders shaping our 21st century.”
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GETTING STARTED IF YOUR TALENTS AND INTERESTS ARE IN THE ENGINEERING FIELD IN GENERAL AND
civil engineering in particular, then you had better start planning your future now! Why? Because there are courses you should now be taking in high school and planning to take in college. This is not a field you can jump right into. This must be a carefully thought out and planned with a goal in mind as to where you want to be in five, 10 or 20 years from now. Getting started means you do the research and legwork. You now know the basics of civil engineering, and the second Careers Report in this series will give more specifics on structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, and other specialties. If you are not sure and want to check out other engineering specialties or different careers, visit Careers Internet Database at www.careers-internet.org Consider, are science, mathematics, computers and other technologies on your radar screen? Are you a good student with good grades? Do you have good study habits? Are you ever curious about how they did that? Do you like to solve problems? Are you a team player? Would you like to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to a building, waterway, neighborhood, city, state and our country? Read up on civil engineering history, accomplishments and future at websites listed below. There are also books in your public library that may answer some of your questions. Talk to professionals in the field. Call and visit civil engineering firms, government agencies and other entities that employ civil engineers and go armed with questions about their work, potential growth, salaries and more. Invite a civil engineer to speak before your class and answer questions. Check out engineering courses and degree programs in different colleges and universities so you are aware of the requirements and costs. Your career is too important to leave to chance or the last minute. An engineering degree is hard to come by and can be costly. Make sure that this is what you want. Talk with your school counselor, teachers, family and friends about your interest in civil engineering and listen to their comments and suggestions. Every step you take now will help you eventually become a better engineer later, someone who has done the homework and made the right decision. This could be the rest of your life. Make it count. 25
ASSOCIATIONS American Association of Engineering Societies
www.aaes.org American Board of Engineering & Technology
www.abet.org American Society of Civil Engineers
www.asce.org American Society for Engineering Education
www.asee.org Association for Bridge Construction and Design
http://abcdpittsburgh.org Association of State Dam Safety Officials
www.damsafety.org Civil Engineering Research Foundation
www.cerf.org Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
www.ctbuh.org National Academy of Engineering
www.nae.edu National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering
www.nacme.org National Society of Professional Engineers
www.nspe.org Society of Women Engineers
www.swe.org
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PERIODICALS The Bridge
www.nae.edu Civil Engineering Magazine
www.pubs.asce.org Engineering Times
www.nspe.org/1et.asp PRISM Magazine
www.asee.org/about/publications/index.cfm The following can all be found at:
www.pubs.asce.org/journals/jrns.html Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering Journal of Structural Engineering Journal of Water Resources Planning & Management Journal of Urban Planning & Development Leadership & Management in Engineering HELPFUL CIVIL ENGINEERING WEBSITE
www.icivilengineer.com
COPYRIGHT Institute For Career Research 2009 CAREERS INTERNET DATABASE www.careers-internet.org
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