What do you do if you're a mid-career structural engineer wanting to specialize in a specific area?

1 Assess your interests and strengths

The first step to specialize is to identify what area of structural engineering you're most passionate and proficient about. You can start by reviewing your past projects and evaluating what aspects you enjoyed or excelled at the most. For example, you might have a knack for seismic design, bridge engineering, or sustainable construction. You can also research the current and future trends and demands in the structural engineering market, and see what areas align with your interests and strengths.

2 Choose a specialization path

If you want to specialize in structural engineering, you need to decide how to pursue it. Your level of experience, education, and goals will determine the best option for you. For instance, you can get certified or licensed by the Structural Engineering Certification Board (SECB) or National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) in the US. Alternatively, you can pursue a master's or doctoral degree in a specific field or topic, such as earthquake engineering or wind engineering. You may also consider taking online courses or workshops on topics like finite element analysis or fire engineering. This can help you update your skills and knowledge, and learn from experts and peers. Ultimately, obtaining a certification or license can help you demonstrate your competence and credibility, while a degree can prepare you for more advanced roles.

3 Build your portfolio and network

The next step to specialize in structural engineering is to showcase your expertise and connect with others in the field. You can do this by seeking projects or assignments that involve your specialization, creating and sharing content that reflects your specialization, and joining and participating in professional associations, communities, or groups related to your specialization. This will help you gain more practical experience and exposure, establish your reputation and authority, expand your network and contacts, and access more resources and support. For example, you can volunteer for a project that involves your specialization, propose a new idea or solution that uses your specialization, write articles or blogs on your specialization, present at conferences or webinars, or join the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE), or the Structural Engineers Association of your state or country.

4 Keep learning and improving

The final step to specialize is to continue learning and developing your skills and knowledge in structural engineering. Staying up-to-date on the latest developments, innovations, and best practices in your specialization can help you stay relevant and competitive, as well as adapt to changing needs and expectations. Additionally, seeking feedback and mentoring from experts or peers in your specialization can help you identify strengths and weaknesses, as well as improve performance. Exploring new challenges and opportunities in your specialization can also boost confidence and competence, allowing you to achieve career aspirations. This could involve applying for a promotion or new role related to your specialization, or pursuing a personal or professional goal.

5 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?