Structural engineers design buildings and bridges that are strong enough to hold the weight of people or equipment and stable against weather elements. They also investigate and repair existing structures.
You can enter this profession by studying to be a civil engineer at university or college or taking an apprenticeship with a construction firm. Alternatively, you can take on professional development.
Qualifications
Structural engineers are responsible for building and infrastructure projects. They prepare designs and drawings for structures like multi-storey buildings and bridges. They also perform calculations on loads and stresses to improve the stability of these structures. They are involved in the planning stages of construction and advise construction managers on the materials to be used.
Those interested in becoming structural engineers should have good maths skills to help them understand and calculate complex measurements. They must also have excellent attention to detail, as mistakes can compromise the integrity of a structure. They also need to have the ability to communicate well with construction teams.
There are many ways to become a structural engineer, from completing a university course to apprenticeships. There are also courses that offer industry placements, which can provide invaluable experience in the workplace and help you decide whether this is a career for you. Then there is the option of pursuing a postgraduate degree in engineering, which can boost your career prospects.
Skills
Structural engineers Auckland are required to have a wide variety of skills and experiences. These include a strong analytical and mathematical mind, expert problem-solving abilities, a high level of technical communication, and the ability to work with various kinds of structural systems. In addition, they need to be able to create design solutions that are cost-effective and sustainable.
To strengthen your engineering skills, consider asking other professionals for advice on how to improve. You can also take courses that focus on specific areas of the industry. You can also attend engineering conferences or seminars to stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments.
It is also important to have good critical thinking skills, which are necessary for developing new designs and resolving problems. Many structural engineers start their career by creating initial design models and then track construction to ensure that their designs are being followed correctly. Some engineers go on to become project supervisors and others choose to specialize in a particular area of the industry.
Experience
Structural engineers have a lot of experience in construction projects. They know what it takes to create a structurally sound building, and they’re able to provide expert advice for the best results. They also understand how to configure structures, choose building materials, and inspect construction work.
These experts will also ensure that your building meets all of the necessary safety requirements. This is crucial, especially for buildings and structures that will be occupied by people. Choosing the right structural engineer will ensure that your project is safe for all occupants, and that it will stand up to environmental conditions like rain, wind, earthquakes, and cyclones.
Structural engineering requires a lot of work and time, but it’s also a rewarding career. Many people start their careers in temporary jobs and then move into permanent positions with major companies. This is a great way to gain the experience and qualifications you need to become a structural engineer.
Certification
Structural engineers can gain their professional certificates through a university or college course, through an apprenticeship, or by working at a construction site and gaining experience on the job. They also need to have a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
As a structural engineer, you may work as a consultant or as a contractor. If you’re a consultant, you spend most of your time in the office, developing plans, managing projects, and generating blueprints. You’ll also need to visit the construction site on occasion, though this is only a small portion of your time.
Jan is a highly respected structural engineer with a great deal of experience across a variety of fields. She serves as a governance member, holds a teaching post at the university, and is a passionate advocate for diversity in engineering. Her work has been recognised by several awards, including the 2020 President’s Award from ACENZ.