My 2022 Civil Chronicles

I could start by saying, I worked in xyz but the story won’t be complete without a little back story. The months leading up to the start of my NYSC journey was busy. I had a major exam I was preparing for so I couldn’t go to drop any cv even though I had them written. I tired to send it via mails but there was no response.?

On the day of my exam, which was just a day to going camp, I finally had the opportunity to drop my letter at Hitech construction company as it was two streets away from where I wrote the exams.?

Unfortunately, that’s not how I got to working at Hitech. I had carefully written an enticing cover letter, well constructed CV, and I had a solid result from a good university so I was sure I was going to get it. Apparently, I doubt if my CV or Cover letter was ever read. They just told me there was no space and they would get back to me if any came up.?

Fast forward to the day of our posting. As I picked up my letter and saw Hitech, I just knew it was God orchestrated. Even that didn’t make it automatic. I went back for three weeks consecutively and they were like no space, we would get back to you… but it eventually worked out.?

Back to the main gist. I know I share the bad sides of working there a lot but the exposure I gained from it was massive. Let me share highlights for the year.

1. Road Construction:

One of the most fascinating experiences was witnessing the construction of a complete road. From the meticulous planning of traffic flow to the intricate process of excavation, setting precast drainage, soil stabilization, layering, interlocking, and soil testing, I had the chance to witness the entire process firsthand. To capture these moments, I even created a YouTube video to showcase the remarkable journey.

2. Soil Stabilization:

During my time at Hitech, I was fortunate to be involved in a chemical soil stabilization project. This process, which was carried out as part of a road construction project, truly fascinated me. Using a mix ratio of 5% cement, we achieved remarkable results. I was so enthralled by this process that I even documented it in a YouTube video.

3.Road Mapping in Bare Estates:

While working on my first road project, I pondered about the challenges involved in marking out roads in remote areas. It seemed like divine intervention when I was assigned to an estate road development project. Though the project was in its completion phase, I eagerly sought out knowledge from the experienced surveyors and project managers. This opportunity allowed me to appreciate the importance of visualizing road connectivity and the significance of effective project management.

4. Breakwaters, X-bloc, and High-Profile Breakwater:

A beachside estate project presented me with the opportunity to delve into the world of breakwater construction. Preventing ocean encroachment while maintaining beach activities required innovative solutions. I learned about the various techniques employed, such as groynes, x-blocs, high-profile, and low-profile mounds. The intricacies of these structures left me fascinated and filled with a sense of awe.

5. House Construction in Gbeger:

As a chief construction explorer, I visited a construction site where I had contributed to the structural design phase of a building. The construction was truly remarkable, as we aimed to maximize space and minimize costs. By employing 100mm blocks for internal walls and 125mm blocks for external walls, we successfully reduced loads. Additionally, the creative arrangement of the staircase helped balance the centroid of the building and carbon fibers ere used to strengthen the structure.

6. Secant Piles, Canal Construction, and Anchor Rods:

A long-held fascination with the Eko Atlantic project finally materialized when I had the chance to visit the site. The ongoing canal construction exposed me to the world of secant piles and anchor rods. I was captivated by the ingenuity behind these structures, as they enhanced the strength and stability of the surrounding infrastructure. Soon, I will be sharing what I learnt in an upcoming YouTube video on secant piles.

7. Hakuna Matata Park:

Among the various projects I worked on, the Hakuna Matata Park stood out as a simple yet remarkable endeavor. Despite the short timeline of less than two months, meticulous planning was essential. Challenges arose when unexpected design modifications required us to readjust our earthworks. These experiences reinforced the importance of thorough planning and allocation of sufficient time for successful project execution.

Looking Ahead:

My journey in civil engineering has been a thrilling one so far, and I eagerly anticipate exploring more sites and projects in this year. I have a particular interest in smart homes and green buildings, and I welcome any opportunities to be part of such projects. If you have a project you would like me to visit, I would be delighted to make the trip.

In conclusion, my civil engineering journey in 2022 was filled with valuable experiences and incredible learning opportunities. The exposure I gained through working at Hitech Construction Company has shaped my understanding of the field and deepened my passion for civil engineering. As I embark on new ventures, I am excited to witness the continued growth and innovation within the industry.