What do Civil Engineers do?

The world may go round and round but we would cease get around without civil engineering. Civil engineers are generally involved with the overall design and construction of the physical environment in which we reside in. These projects may include large structures, roads, bridges, water distribution systems, sewage treatments plants, flood protection systems and much more. Within the civil engineering field there are multiple subdivisions where specific skills and aspects are used to develop the foundations in our societies. These categories include structural, geotechnical, environmental, and transportation engineering. All of these compliment each other and help make the field of civil engineering as we know it. Here is a better perspective at what each of these do:

Structural engineering is a particular field that is concerned with the design of loaded structures. It is implemented largely in civil engineering and assists in the fundamental basics of living today. Structural engineers design structures and renovate others to help from collapsing or behaving in undesirable ways. Structural engineering is considered a specialty of civil engineering , but while civil engineers are designing and analyzing roadways, dams, and bridges, structural engineers are focusing on the specific components of the infrastructure itself. When considering public safety concerns, cost efficiency, and ethics  you must make these a number one priority. The works of a structural engineers can range anywhere from huge towers to simple apartment complexes.

Geotechnical engineering deals with the soil mechanics of surfaces and materials from the earth. They review  foundations for structures and sub-grades for roadways.Ground improvement are one of the most critical concerns when it comes to geotechnical engineering. It has now developed into a complex tool that now supports the wide range of structures today. Geotechnical engineers also deal with various geological hazards that may potentially impact our society. Ultimately they participate in the design, construction, and operation of many projects.

Environmental engineering involves us putting science and engineering principles together to develop systems that not only protect human health and welfare, but also help shrink the effects of human activity on the environment. Environmental engineering also includes managing contaminated sites and protecting public health through the principles of engineering. By evaluating the significant hazards, you can then advise possible treatment plans and begin to regulate precautions to prevent any mishaps.

Transportation engineering includes us apply the safest means of transportation in every possible aspect. Some of these may be highways and streets, mass transit systems, railroads, airfields, ports, and harbors. Transportation engineers combine technological intelligence as well as knowledge of the economic, political, and social factors where their projects may be. They are encouraged to collaborate directly with urban planners because the quality of the project is directly related to the communities transportation system. As practiced by all engineers, transportation engineering involves planning, construction, maintenance, and operation of transportation facilities.

  Furthermore the main point is that we as humanity understand how dependent we are on civil engineering. In many aspects it has helped construction the world we live in today and will continue to change the world for years to come. The civil engineers we teach today will make tomorrows future.