Here's how you can advance from mid-career structural engineer to a leadership role in your organization.

1 Build Expertise

To advance in structural engineering, it's crucial to deepen your technical expertise beyond the core competencies. This might mean specializing in a niche area, such as seismic retrofitting or sustainable design, which can set you apart as an expert. Continuous learning through advanced certifications or degrees can also demonstrate your commitment to the field. By becoming the go-to person for complex engineering problems, you increase your value to your organization and pave the way for leadership opportunities.

2 Gain Visibility

Establishing yourself as a leader involves gaining visibility within your organization and the wider engineering community. You can achieve this by leading high-profile projects, actively participating in professional organizations, and sharing your knowledge through presentations or publications. By showcasing your skills and contributing to the industry discourse, you not only build your professional reputation but also signal to your superiors that you're ready for more significant challenges.

3 Mentor Others

A hallmark of leadership is the ability to mentor and develop others. Take the initiative to guide less experienced engineers, sharing insights that can only be gained through years of practice. This not only helps to build a stronger team but also demonstrates your leadership capabilities. Mentoring can also provide you with fresh perspectives and keep you engaged with the latest industry trends, which are essential for a leader.

4 Network Strategically

Networking is not just about collecting business cards; it's about building strategic relationships that can support your career progression. Attend industry conferences, join technical committees, and connect with peers and leaders who can offer guidance or advocate for you when opportunities arise. Remember, your network should extend beyond your own discipline to include professionals in related fields, as interdisciplinary collaboration is often key to innovation in structural engineering.

5 Foster Soft Skills

Technical prowess is a given, but soft skills like communication, conflict resolution, and team management are what set potential leaders apart. You must be able to articulate complex engineering concepts to non-engineers, negotiate with stakeholders, and manage diverse teams effectively. Consider training or workshops to enhance these skills, and seek feedback to continuously improve. Strong soft skills will not only make you a better leader but also a more effective engineer.

6 Lead by Example

Finally, leadership is about setting an example and embodying the values and work ethic you want to see in your team. Take ownership of your projects, be proactive in solving problems, and maintain high professional standards. By doing so, you'll earn the respect of your colleagues and superiors, which is critical when you're considered for leadership roles. Remember, leadership is not just a title; it's reflected in your daily actions and decisions.