The event took place in Steinman Hall in the Civil Engineering Department conference room #105, on September 10 between 12:00 noon and 2:00pm. The speakers were:

• Bernie Grand: The former chief engineer, Slattery/Skanska, Highway/Heavy 
  construction contractors
• Cliff Gold: President, CG Engineers, environmental engineering and litigation services.
• Bernie Monahan: The former vice president, Crow Construction, Building Contractors
• Jack Seidman: The president of the Civil Engineering Alumni Group who founded his own construction company.
  
  

The discussion focused on the perks of trying out different fields. The two main ideas were: Get your hands dirty in a hands-on construction job, or go into design in an air-conditioned office. Whatever you do, don’t be afraid to ask question of your boss and get directions. Show some initiative, and where you end up will be fated by the type of person you happen to be.

When hunting for your first career job, be aggressive and determined, contact as many companies and departments as you can. Be prepared to do four or more interviews a day as the economic times are rough. Have the humility to work a job outside of civil engineering that may not be your preferred choice, as it will only enhance your skills and build your resume further. Keep in mind what you would like to do and never settle too fast. The versatility of a civil engineering degree affords the individual a wide range of flexible options.

Finally, be sure to network and make an effort to be active in politics and the professional communities. The civil engineering profession is dominated by politics. We all hate it, but if you can’t beat them, join them. Make as many friends as you can while you’re still in college!