Civil engineering is a broad term that refers to five main types of engineering specializations. This quick guide will help you to better understand the different types and the vital roles they play in the development of our communities and our nation.
Construction Management
Construction management engineering is all about building things such as bridges, buildings, railways, and roads. This is also a broad term that could be further broken down into different categories. Experts in this field focus on how to create these structures in a community in a way that is safe, sustainable, and convenient.
Geotechnical
This field of civil engineering deals with how structures and projects will literally impact the ground they are being built on. Geotechnical engineering is a crucial aspect of all types of construction projects both big and small. The success and longevity of any structure are highly dependent on how the ground will react. Without this field of expertise, all types of construction projects would be doomed.
Structural
Structural engineers specialize in the physical structures of bridges, towers, dams, buildings, and more. These experts study how materials work together and withstand exposure to the elements as well as the pressures that will be put upon them while in use. A structural engineer will use math and physics to ensure that the construction plans make sense and that structures will perform as intended.
Transport
Transport engineers oversee the planning, design, and operation of transportation systems such as roads, railways, subways, and more. This is a very important part of civil engineering as much of our economy is based on reliable and safe transportation systems within our communities and nation.
Water
Water is a powerful force, and water engineers are experts at understanding how water affects our environment. Understanding how to build structures over water, beside water, or including water, takes a deep understanding of math and physics. Without the expertise of water engineers, many structures would be a danger and would not last long.
Water engineers also specialize in helping communities understand how to conserve, store, and move water effectively through the community. This is not only important for safety, but also for the survival of community members. Life is based on water, and we must have safe, sustainable ways to use water and interact with it in order to keep communities safe, clean, and thriving.