What do you do if you want to build a robust professional network as a structural engineer?

1 Join relevant associations

One of the best ways to network as a structural engineer is to join and participate in professional associations that represent your field, such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), or the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE). These associations offer various benefits, such as access to journals, conferences, webinars, awards, scholarships, and mentoring programs. They also provide opportunities to meet and interact with other structural engineers, exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on projects.

2 Create an online presence

Another way to network as a structural engineer is to create and maintain an online presence that showcases your expertise, achievements, and interests. You can use platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or your own website or blog to share your portfolio, publications, insights, and opinions on structural engineering topics. You can also follow and engage with other structural engineers, influencers, organizations, and media outlets that are relevant to your field. By doing so, you can build your reputation, credibility, and visibility online, and attract potential employers, clients, or partners.

3 Attend events and workshops

A third way to network as a structural engineer is to attend events and workshops that are related to your field, such as seminars, symposiums, trade shows, or training courses. These events and workshops can help you learn new skills, trends, and technologies, as well as meet and connect with other structural engineers, speakers, experts, and vendors. You can also use these events and workshops to showcase your work, ask questions, give feedback, and exchange contacts. To make the most of these events and workshops, you should prepare in advance, be proactive, and follow up afterwards.

4 Volunteer and mentor

A fourth way to network as a structural engineer is to volunteer and mentor for causes and organizations that are aligned with your values and goals. For example, you can volunteer for humanitarian or environmental projects that involve structural engineering, such as Engineers Without Borders (EWB), Bridges to Prosperity (B2P), or Habitat for Humanity (HFH). You can also mentor young or aspiring structural engineers, such as students, interns, or graduates, and share your knowledge, experience, and advice. By volunteering and mentoring, you can make a positive impact, expand your network, and demonstrate your leadership and skills.

5 Keep in touch

A fifth way to network as a structural engineer is to keep in touch with your existing contacts, such as colleagues, former employers, clients, professors, classmates, or alumni. You can use various channels, such as email, phone, social media, or newsletters, to stay updated, show appreciation, offer help, or ask for referrals. You can also use occasions, such as birthdays, holidays, or milestones, to reconnect and celebrate. By keeping in touch, you can maintain and strengthen your relationships, and create opportunities for collaboration, recommendation, or support.

6 Be genuine and respectful

A sixth and final way to network as a structural engineer is to be genuine and respectful in your interactions and communications. You should network with a purpose, not just for the sake of it. You should also network with a diversity of people, not just those who can benefit you. You should be polite, courteous, and professional, and avoid being pushy, spammy, or rude. You should listen, learn, and add value, and not just talk, sell, or take. You should be yourself, and not pretend to be someone else. By being genuine and respectful, you can build trust, rapport, and loyalty with your network, and enhance your reputation and career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?