Expert: Bryan P. Lindsey, P.E. - 2/9/2009

Question
Hi Mr. Lindsey my name is Simon and i am conducting on research an i had a few questions for you.
1. What is a typical day as a civil Engineer like and what task does it involve?
2.In your perspective, what is the hardest aspect of being a civil Engineer?
3.   What would you say is the difference between the design portion of the job and the construction portion?
4. What aspect in a college should i look for when applying to ensure a good Civil Engineering education.
5.What kind of personality and attributes should a person have if they want to work in your field?

Answer
I will do the best I can with short answers, I hope that will be sufficient.

1. The early years are spent designing various proejcts depending on the area you enter into. The later years become management of junior engineers and finances of the projects.

2. I do not find any of it very difficult but there are some very tidious projects which can become somewhat boring.

3. The design portion is an ideal condition and construction portion is real. A good Civil Engineer needs the field experience to grow.

4. A school that teaches you to be problem solver not a doer.

5. Hardwork, diligence, focus, good sense of humor.