Starting your career can be overwhelming.
With so many options available after graduating, it can be tough for entry-level civil engineers to determine exactly where they fit in. And getting a feel for different types of job responsibilities and firms is only the first step.
Although there can be major challenges for individuals navigating the first stages of their careers, there are strategies young civil engineers can use to land their first postcollege role and grow no matter where they start out.
During a recent Thursdays@3 discussion, a panel of established engineers came together to discuss their experiences as mentors in the field. Find out below what advice they have for entry-level civil engineers.
James Smith, P.E., M.ASCE
Assistant project manager for highways at Colliers Engineering & Design; Grand Rapids, Michigan
“I would encourage you to be open to a lot of options when things are tricky. Know that just because you start working somewhere doesn't mean that is the path you have to be on for the rest of your life. You can start somewhere, and sometimes it's about learning what you don't like.
“Obviously, internships are great, but as you're looking to graduate, you're looking more towards starting a career. I wouldn't encourage you to just start bouncing around everywhere – you definitely don't want to develop a reputation as someone who’s not going to, you know, stick it out.
“Maybe it's not a perfect fit or it’s just not working out, but find something that's interesting to you, pursue that, and be open to looking around. The more willing you are to be flexible in terms of location, the more options that are out there. And engineering is always an in-demand profession.”
Dennis Truax, Ph.D., P.E., BCEE, BC.WRE, F.ASCE, Pres.22.ASCE
Former ASCE president; chief information officer and co-founder of Bidcurement; Starkville, Mississippi
“Throughout this decade, we’ve been graduating about 5,000 fewer civil engineers than the marketplace needs. AI is going to help a little bit with that, but AI is just a tool, not unlike CAD. The engineer, the person with the expertise and the knowledge, is always going to be there making the final decision, so don't let the promise of new technology scare you off.
“The challenge that I issue to college graduates today, and this is my sincere hope, is do your homework before you interview so you know who they are, know what they're about, and have a feel for the firm so you know if they are a good fit for your life goals.”
Brendan Smith, P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE
Lead civil aviation engineer at WSP USA; New York City
“Getting involved with ASCE and networking is probably one of the most important things to get involved in when graduating college. Your network plays an important role in finding the job you want.
“Engineering firms can receive hundreds of applications, and it's usually the ones who come to events and speak with other engineers who have a better opportunity of getting that job offer that was listed.
“One key piece of advice I am able to offer you is communication. I believe one of the most important things for younger engineers, as you develop your goals and where you want to focus your career, is don't forget to also continually improve on the soft skills: communication, writing, and presenting.”
