Civil engineers are an integral component of society, and perform an array of duties and jobs that are essential to the smooth functioning of everyday life. I have always been keenly interested in a career in civil engineering, because of this fact. As an aspiring civil engineer, there are a host of opportunities within this field, all which carry immense responsibility and have the ability to positively affect society. Civil engineers are responsible for a number of different roles with construction projects, allow for a diverse range of options to pursue, and also entail the formation of lasting, rewarding relationships.
Civil engineers are responsible for designing, supervising, building, operating, and sustaining construction systems and projects. These systems and projects are both within the public and private sector, which affords an additional option for myself within this field. The civil engineers you may encounter in your everyday life may be those who construct roads, supervise airport construction or maintenance, build dams, renovate bridges, or oversee water treatment and supply (“Civil Engineers,” 1). In this way, the career opportunities are boundless, and can fit literally any person’s interests or desires.
There is a diverse range of options to pursue further as a civil engineer. Another facet of a career in civil engineering that fascinates me is the ability to go into higher education later on. Many civil engineers, either early on or later in their careers, often pursue either part time or full time careers both in research and education (Mason, 80). The research options are limitless, and I believe it would be rewarding to teach other aspiring civil engineers, once I gain the necessary experience. Often, a career in this field requires liaising with other industries or areas. For example, as a civil engineer, I may have to work extensively with road construction crews and geographical planners, as so often this field requires the analyzing of survey reports, maps, long range plans, and other data (Mason, 44). Additionally, there are numerous upcoming changes in this field that will undoubtedly influence my career. For example, with global warming becoming a more prevalent issue, I will be inevitably tasked with projects that require renewable energy, which must comply with federal, local, and state requirements (“Civil Engineers,” 1). From solar energy to wind farms, I will have the ability to positively affect our society’s impact in regards to global warming. Also, whether I’m a private contractor or in a public service role, most likely I will need to correspond and work with the government on regulations, potential environmental hazards, construction costs, and any risk analysis for the general public (“Civil Engineering,” 1). This will entail the instigation and ongoing process of forming working relationships, which can be quite rewarding in itself.
As a people person, I know I will excel in a career of civil engineering, primarily because I thoroughly enjoy working with others, especially over long periods of time. Often after the construction of certain projects, civil engineers will maintain a working relationship for that respective company or corporation, and be responsible for the project’s maintenance, further additions, and any renovations. In this way, I will be allowed to form lasting, permanent relationships, as my services will be required for a very long period of time. To me, this is perhaps one of the most important features of a career such as this.
In conclusion, I am greatly looking forward to the many opportunities of this rewarding career as a civil engineer. The role and function of a civil engineer is pivotal to so many aspects of society and everyday life. I look forward to being a positive force in this field, and also in cultivating lasting, rewarding relationships with others and organizations.
- “Civil Engineering Careers.” Civil Engineering Careers Home. 2016. Web. 17 Feb. 2016.
- “Civil Engineers.” CollegeGrad. 2016. Web. 18 Feb. 2016.
- Mason, John M. Civil Engineering Careers: Awareness, Retention, and Curriculum. Washington, D.C.: Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, 1992. Print.
