The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is the oldest engineering society in the United States. Among its objectives, as stated by the society itself, are:
- To encourage and publicize discoveries and new techniques throughout the profession.
- To afford the opportunity for professional contacts and develop professional consciousness among civil engineering students.
- To further research, design, and construction procedures in specialized fields of civil engineering.
- To give special attention to the professional and economic aspects of the practice of engineering.
- To enhance the standing of engineers.
- To maintain and improve standards of engineering education.
- To bring engineers together for the exchange of information and ideas.
There are many other societies that the practicing civil engineer may also wish to join in order to associate with other engineers and professionals doing similar kinds of work. Among these latter types of societies would be such groups as the American Public Works Association, the American Water Works Association, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the American Concrete Institute, the Transportation Research Board, the Water Pollution Control Federation, etc.
Membership requirements will vary from society to society; however, many groups such as the ASCE have student membership grades from which the student may transfer to associate membership upon graduation. The primary reason for belonging to a society of any type is to participate in its activities and to contribute to the exchange of professional information so vital to any profession's existence. Each prospective civil engineer is encouraged to investigate the student society memberships available while completing undergraduate studies.
A Final Word
The profession of civil engineering and all the wide range of activities and specialties within that profession have been described. It was not possible to include the entire job assignments open to civil engineers, but many typical engineering activities have been described. Anyone interested in a career in civil engineering should have discovered from those descriptions that an opportunity exists today to work in a variety of technical specialty areas within civil engineering, for a more-than-adequate salary and under very favorable working conditions.
The preparations involved in a college curriculum in civil engineering and, for that matter, a degree in civil engineering do not guarantee subsequent advancement in the profession. However, civil engineers who are ambitious and persevere in their efforts almost surely will advance professionally and personally. The civil engineer's responsibilities and rewards will increase with experience on the job. Additionally, the ambitious civil engineer will find many opportunities to move into related fields of engineering or to advance into management positions supervising both technical and nontechnical personnel. A basic education and experience in civil engineering can also provide a foundation for a rewarding career in engineering sales. On the whole, a career in civil engineering offers great promise; however, it requires dedication and hard work and possesses certain limitations.
For example, civil engineers deal principally with structures and devices rather than with people. An engineer analyzes and designs systems consisting of natural forces and material goods and does not always deal principally with individuals or communities. Obviously, however, the civil engineer's activities have great impact on the welfare of both individuals and communities. Nevertheless, the civil engineer relies on background and education in the physical and natural sciences, particularly mathematics, to solve technical problems in the real world. He or she is not necessarily interested in searching for absolute truths as is not the scientist, nor does the engineer deal with specific mechanics of problem solving as does the technician. Rather, he or she attempts to analyze general situations; to develop and design systems to satisfy needs and solve problems; and to oversee and supervise the implementation of these designs.
In general, civil engineers are well-paid professionals. Engineering careers offer quite adequate job security with good salaries and fringe benefits for those who are capable. In comparison to other engineering specialties, average starting salaries for civil engineers are lower. However, employment opportunities in civil engineering are not subject to major fluctuations with economic conditions as are other branches of engineering. Additionally, a significant fraction of the total number of civil engineers find employment as consultants; when the civil engineer is employed in this fashion, the potential for attaining salaries much higher than the average are greatly enhanced. In any case, the civil engineer will usually be able to see the designs and solutions he or she has prepared implemented in concrete and steel or in a similar material fashion. This direct evidence of productive effort is one of the most rewarding features of a civil engineering career. If, on the other hand, you derive more satisfaction from dealing with the intangible personal problems of your fellow human beings, you may feel frustrated in working as an engineer where you must concentrate on material things rather than on people and personal relationships.
If you are considering a career in civil engineering, examine very carefully the functions of civil engineering and the technical specialties within the general field of civil engineering. Review the job duties, salaries, and working conditions, and the general potential for advancement. If the activities described seem attractive and appealing to you, and if you have a strong capability in mathematics and the physical sciences, it is likely that you will find great satisfaction in a career as a civil engineer. If you feel that you have an inclination toward this field of endeavor, carefully review the education necessary for practice as a civil engineer. Be sure to establish the correct foundation for a college education in civil engineering by enrolling in the proper high school courses in mathematics and physical science. Carefully choose an accredited engineering school and explore all possible opportunities for financial assistance at that school. Extend your explorations to several schools if you choose. After you have made your choice and have entered a university or college to pursue an education in civil engineering, carefully review your progress to date and be sure that you have made the correct career choice. If you remain satisfied and you successfully complete your college education, we look forward to having you join us as colleagues in the great profession of civil engineering.
