Is Civil Engineering a Good Career Reddit?
The Pros and Cons of a Career in Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is a broad field that encompasses the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including public works such as roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings.
There are many pros and cons to a career in civil engineering. Some of the pros include:
- Job security: Civil engineers are in high demand, and there is a projected shortage of civil engineers in the coming years.
- Good salary: Civil engineers earn a good salary, with a median annual salary of $87,000.
- Variety of work: Civil engineers work on a variety of projects, from designing new buildings to repairing old bridges.
- Opportunity to make a difference: Civil engineers play a vital role in improving the quality of life for people around the world.
Some of the cons of a career in civil engineering include:
- Long hours: Civil engineers often work long hours, especially during construction projects.
- Stressful work: Civil engineers are responsible for the safety of the public, and they can be held liable for any accidents that occur on their projects.
- Travel: Civil engineers may have to travel for work, especially if they are working on large projects.
- Competition: There is a lot of competition for civil engineering jobs, especially in entry-level positions.
Is Civil Engineering a Good Career for Me?
If you are interested in a career in civil engineering, there are a few things you should consider:
- Are you good at math and science? Civil engineering requires a strong foundation in math and science.
- Are you creative and have a good eye for detail? Civil engineers need to be able to design and build structures that are both safe and aesthetically pleasing.
- Are you a problem solver? Civil engineers are often faced with challenges that require creative solutions.
- Are you willing to work long hours and travel? Civil engineers often work long hours, especially during construction projects, and they may have to travel for work.
If you answered yes to these questions, then a career in civil engineering may be a good fit for you.
How to Become a Civil Engineer
To become a civil engineer, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited university. Once you have earned your degree, you will need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. You will also need to gain experience working under a licensed civil engineer.
Conclusion
Civil engineering is a challenging but rewarding career. If you are interested in a career in civil engineering, I encourage you to do some research and talk to some civil engineers to learn more about the profession.