On this weeks’ careers in construction meet Agustana, a Project Engineer. A project engineer manages technical or engineering projects. They work with stakeholders at all levels, with direct responsibility for budgeting, personnel and project planning.
1. Why did you choose this career path?
I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do honestly but, thought that I wanted to be in civil design. I went to a career fair where I was told by a structural firm that it would be helpful if I had experience in construction before I worked at a firm like theirs. So I interned that summer for a general contractors and fell in love. I love the fast paced, ever changing world of construction and being able to physically see building designs come to life Being prior military (US Navy for 6 years), I really didn’t want a desk job.
2. What did you study in school/university?
I have a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.
3. What certifications are associated with your career?
There is a national Fundamentals of Engineering exam that you can take to become an EIT (engineer in training). After 4 years of working under a licensed engineer, you can take another exam to get your PE (professional engineer) license.
4. What advice do you have for someone looking to pursue this career path?
Construction can be very challenging and require quick thinking on your feet. Be confident in what you know, but also be confident in what you don’t know and ask for help. Another word of advice, communication between team members is always key! In any field really.