Civil engineering has a long and interesting history in Idaho and around the world. It is filled with unique discoveries and inventions that generate many fun facts. Check out the following trivia about the history and development of civil engineering, and be ready to impress your colleagues with your knowledge of history:
- Engineer and architect – one and the same: Until the 18th century, the terms “architect” and “engineer” were interchangeable. They referred to the same person, because the fields of architecture and civil engineering were not yet distinct.
- John Smeaton – the first civil engineer: Smeaton constructed the Eddystone Lighthouse and was the first civil engineer.
- Civil engineers – they’ve gone green: Civil engineers do more than design and construct lighthouses. These professionals often assist in planning ways to reduce future pollution and help clean up existing pollution.
- Civil engineering – present in all industries: Civil engineering in Idaho is not only for municipal projects. This field encompasses work in the public and private sectors, from national governments, to individual homeowners, to global corporations.
- Norwich University – the first civil engineering school: This institution was the first college to offer civil engineering in the United States. It was founded by Captain Alden Partridge in 1819.
- Nora Stanton Blatch – first female civil engineer: Cornell University awarded this woman a civil engineering degree in 1905, making her the first female to attain this particular achievement.
- Institution of Civil Engineers – started in a London coffee shop: The ICE was founded by eight civil engineers in 1818, in a coffee shop in London. The youngest of these founders was just 19 years old.
- American Society of Civil Engineers – oldest society of engineers: The ASCE has the longest history of all national engineering societies in the US. Founded in 1852, it is still active today.
- Civil engineering – you need a license: To offer civil engineering services to the public in Idaho, a professional must have a license. This requirement is consistent across all 50 states.
- Construction engineering – executing designs: This sub-discipline of civil engineering in Idaho involves the execution of designs from engineers involved in structural, hydraulic, transportation and geotechnical projects.
- Materials engineering – the finishing touches: Professionals who specialize in this type of civil engineering in Idaho work with paints, finishes and building materials, such as concrete and metal, to create the best materials solutions for various projects.
- Earthquake engineering – keeping things stable: Not everyone knows this fun fact. Some civil engineers in Idaho specialize in reducing earthquake risk!
Learn more fun facts
To discover more fun facts about civil engineering in Idaho, reach out to the state’s premier civil engineering and surveying company, Mason & Associates. Our team has in-depth knowledge and extensive experience with all aspects of surveying and civil engineering in Idaho. Our specialties include boundary measurements, subdivision platting, land development and more. Contact us today with any questions or to get started on your next project. Reach our experienced professionals at 208-454-0256—we look forward to making more civil engineering history in Idaho with you!