Engineering and architectural professionals harness the power and resources of nature and shape them into applications that are useful to society. From buildings, highways, and aircraft to computers, chemicals, and toys, they provide integrated solutions in every field imaginable.

The construction industry’s activities include work on new structures as well as additions, alterations, and repairs to existing ones.

Engineers and Architects create ideas, based on solid principles of science and mathematics,which are combined with technical expertise to develop drawings and specifications for a project. Once the design has been evaluated for effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety, an engineer or architect may also manage a project to completion.

There are more than 25 major engineering specialties recognized by professional societies, including agricultural, architectural, biomedical, chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and nuclear engineering.

The construction industry is divided into three major segments: general building contractors, heavy construction contractors, and special trade contractors. General building contractors build residential, industrial, commercial, and other buildings. Heavy construction contractors build sewers, roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, and other projects. Special trade contractors are engaged in specialized activities such as carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical work.

Employment in engineering and architecture is expected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2008. While opportunities exist in every state--in both large and small cities and in rural areas--projected growth will vary by specialty and geographical region.

Employment opportunities in construction are expected to be excellent in the construction industry, due largely to the numerous openings arising each year from experienced construction workers who retire or leave jobs. Further, many potential workers may prefer work that has more comfortable working conditions.

Construction offers more opportunities than most other industries for individuals who want to own and run their own business. The large majority of the self-employed work in the construction trades.

A career in engineering, architecture and construction requires a mind that is creative and inquisitive, yet organized and analytical. Individuals in this field should enjoy scientific activities and solving complex technical problems. They must be able to work alone or as part of a team and have an ability to concentrate on detailed work for long periods of time. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are needed to work effectively with others.

There are several courses of study that would help make someone successful in this career field. Some suggested courses are:

• algebra
• calculus
• trigonometry
• geometry
• keyboarding
• industrial materials and processes
• CAD
• engineering technology

Persons may enter most jobs in the construction industry without any formal classroom training after high school. Laborers can learn their job in a few days, but the skills required for many jobs are substantial; they can be learned on the job or through apprenticeships.

Skilled workers such as carpenters, bricklayers, plumbers, and other construction trade specialists need either several years of informal on-the-job experience, or apprenticeship training. Workers pick up skills by working alongside more experienced workers, and through instruction provided by their employers. As they demonstrate their ability to perform tasks they are assigned, they move to progressively more challenging work. As they broaden their skills, they are allowed to work more independently, and responsibilities and earnings increase. They may qualify for jobs in related, more highly skilled, occupations.

Most professionals in engineering and architecture work in comfortable office buildings. However, some are also required to spend time outdoors at construction or exploration sites in order to direct operations or solve onsite problems. Some positions require extensive travel to visit work sites or meet with clients.

Construction workers may sometimes work evenings, weekends, and holidays to finish a job or take care of an emergency. Workers in this industry need physical stamina because the work frequently requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and working in cramped quarters. They also may be required to lift and carry heavy objects. Exposure to weather is common because much of the work is done outside or in partially enclosed structures.