A student who has been exposed to the industry is a student who is more aware of the opportunities that are out there in the field and who demonstrates a greater level of commitment and dedication to what he or she is interested in.
How are Civil Engineers made?
Not only are engineers planners and doers, they’re also imagineers, people who see and create things out of nothing. Some of the characteristics that make good engineers include being: Analytical: Engineers must be able to evaluate situations, consider options, and determine how to make things work effectively. This includes finding ways to build better bridges at lower costs, improving traffic flow, and installing utility systems that will last a long time. Detail-oriented: Engineering projects are made up of countless details. A tiny oversight could lead to calamity. They must understand how the smallest parts of a project work and connect with each other to create sound, stable, and safe structures. An excellent communicator: Engineers interact with countless people every day, explaining complex concepts in ways everyone can understand. Curious: The field of engineering is changing all the time. Engineers must be open to exploring different options and learning new things. Creative: Great bridges and other structures don’t just happen. Engineers imagine and design them. It takes a lot of creativity to develop amazing structures like the Golden Gate, the Brooklyn, and the Gateshead Millennium bridges. A logical thinker: It’s one thing to possess unbridled creativity. Engineers must take it to the next level and use logic to pull all the pieces together to bring their ideas to life. Good with numbers: Every building project is backed up by math. Engineers do complex calculations to ensure structures can withstand gravity and other powerful forces. A problem solver: Design projects involve solving problems. Bridge engineers have to figure out how to move traffic from one side of a natural or manmade barrier to the other and ensure a structure can withstand forces like hurricanes and earthquakes, all while making sure the bridge is attractive and enhances its natural environment. A team player: It takes many people to build and maintain bridges. Being able to interact with all personality types is critical for success. Tech savvy: Engineers utilize complex computer software every day. Being technologically literate is a requirement for the job.