Civil engineers are an integral part of our communities and are responsible for the design, implementation and upkeep of the infrastructure that we all use or benefit from in our day to day lives. It is a dynamic, lucrative and fast-growing career path.
After graduating, civil engineers will begin to work on all kinds of projects, from planning and designing transportation networks, to the construction and improvement of a building’s energy efficiency.
If you enjoyed the creativity of building blocks or other toys as a child, then you’d be pleased to know that civil engineering is practically a direct extension!
Excelling in Mathematics and Physics prior to studying Civil Engineering is a sign that this industry could be a great way for you to combine your interests and talents in a lucrative and rewarding career.
Studying civil engineering requires a large amount of practical involvement from students. Creating and following your projects’ progress can be an exciting and rewarding venture as you learn to visualise projects and bring infrastructure to life!
Civil engineer design the full gamut, from commercial to industrial facilities as well as remodelling existing structures. Technical skills and a strong creative mindset are the foundational tools of being a great civil engineer.
Benefits of studying Civil Engineering
1. Civil engineering will challenge your creative senses and involve you in a world of optimisation and problem-solving. The projects you face also become progressively and exponentially more challenging and rewarding in an industry that’s always changing and evolving.
2. Civil engineering is an incredibly innovative career and study path. With the constant development of new technology comes fresh, new learning opportunities which may include design and operational methods, or the updating of industry law or regulations.
3. Rapid advancement in technology has changed and improved the way we interact with people and organisations as well as the way we work. It also allows engineers to select a specific sector that contributes to a particular part of the industry, as individual skill level and passions can drastically vary. Some civil engineers are interested in building roads and transport systems while others want to manage resources and geotechnical matters.
4. Frequent travelling and exploration are two major benefits of becoming a civil engineer. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the world new perspectives, expanding your knowledge and ideas along the way. With virtually unlimited places to establish yourself, you’ll discover how things work (or don’t work) across the globe.
5. The pathway to becoming a civil engineer involves many advanced programs after the completion of your degree. You’ll work alongside some of the world’s leading companies testing your professional skills and both team and individual work ethic. Learning directly from the best in the business is the most efficient way of developing your engineering skills.
Although you will spend most of your time in the field, civil engineering isn’t always a hands-on job. You’ll likely need to work in an office drawing up plans, designing complex infrastructure and implementing cost-effective solutions amidst other operations.
Resolving construction-related problems and supervising your plans on-site are also important parts of being a civil engineer.
Every day on the job will be different because each project that you work on will have a unique set of requirements, deadlines and other industry-specific factors. You will be working in conjunction with contractors, architects and other professional design teams.
How long does it take to become a civil engineer?
Australian engineers are required to undertake and successfully complete an engineering University degree majoring in civil engineering with many facilities offering courses, degrees and appropriate training. Prerequisites usually include a completed HSC with adequate grades in subjects such as Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. A fluent English-speaking level is generally also required.
You can contact various educational institution for specific details regarding minimum requirements and prerequisites.
Engineers Australia takes on eligible students every year as student members. Prior to graduating, students can apply for a membership in order to fast-track employment opportunities and further develop their skills.
Studying to become a civil engineer is just the beginning. It’s a career where the learning never ends, and you are constantly expanding you skill set. However, this is just one reason that makes Civil Engineering such a stimulating and rewarding career and why it makes such an attractive career choice for students. You’ll likely require a Professional Engineer’s License or a ‘PE’ before most companies will employ you.
Depending on a few factors involving the nature of your work and where you’re located, the Professional Engineer’s License might not be entirely necessary. However, holders of the license can benefit immensely in terms of an increase in salary, flexible work locations and higher credibility among potential employers. Because of their incredibly high levels of responsibility, civil engineers should also consider certain types of insurance. No matter how meticulous you are, there is always the possibility that the unexpected could occur.Insurance options for civil engineers should also be considered.
