What are the most in-demand skills for traffic engineers?

A decade ago, as a traffic engineer fresh from school, I collected data manually at bustling intersections, wielding a traditional counting board. Today, modern technology has revolutionized our profession, making our work more efficient. However, it's vital to stress the importance of understanding raw data, especially for newcomers. Processing raw data may lack glamour, but it often uncovers hidden insights that defy common understanding. This foundational understanding provides the confidence necessary when deploying tools like HCS, Synchro, VISSIM, etc. In a rapidly evolving field, this combination of traditional expertise and modern technology ensures we continue to improve traffic flow, safety, and transportation systems.

Traffic modeling and simulation expertise. Transportation planning and design proficiency. Knowledge of intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Data analysis and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) skills. Strong communication and project management abilities.

Traffic engineering design aims to optimize the safety, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the movement of people and goods on the road network. However, we must remember design goes beyond its physical manifestation. It provides the framework on which we place our communities, families, and future.

For many traffic engineers, it often seems more straightforward to run a model than to convey the meaning of the results to the wider world. Effective communication skills are paramount for engineers, as it's essential to tailor the presentation of outcomes to various stakeholders. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for every project audience. The content intended for a technical lead's review, for instance, will differ significantly from what's suitable for senior management. I recommend that, before sharing our designs, model results, or breakthroughs, we prioritize understanding the specific communication needs of our audience and customize our approach accordingly. This is always an ongoing learning process.

Innovation is vital across all industries, including transportation. Traffic engineers, while sometimes bound by established standards, must recognize that these standards are human-made. Maintaining an innovative mindset is essential. In the post-pandemic era, it's crucial to adapt to emerging transportation needs, technology trends, and shifts in travel behavior. Expanding horizons beyond traditional traffic and transportation is a beneficial approach. Traffic engineers should seek inspiration from counterparts in related fields and draw insights from other industries. This broader perspective allows for creative solutions that enhance the industry's quality and efficiency.

Ethics and integrity are indispensable in all engineering endeavors. The work of traffic engineers directly impacts the welfare of the community, society, and individuals. It's crucial to discern what is permissible and what is not. Many firms provide onboarding training on ethics and professionalism; it's imperative to take these seriously and make note of any deviations from your expectations. If anything appears unclear or raises concerns, seek guidance. In your daily engineering activities, never dismiss potential issues with a casual "this might be fine" attitude. Always stay vigilant and uphold ethical standards, ensuring that your work consistently benefits and upholds the well-being of society and the community.

Recognize that transportation decisions have different impacts on different groups of people, especially those who have been historically underserved, disadvantaged, or overburdened by the transportation system. Equity design seeks to address the existing and potential disparities and ensure that all people have fair and equal access to the benefits and opportunities of the transportation system. Traffic engineering design and equity design are interrelated and interdependent processes that can work together to create a better transportation system for all. By integrating equity into the traffic engineering design process, transportation professionals can improve the quality of life and well-being of all people and communities.