A structural engineer can often be seen working for structural engineering consultants. These engineers are not civil engineers and work on the designs and execution of buildings, roads, bridges and skyscrapers. They have a rather intensive course structure in comparison to most civil engineering courses. Many lives are affected because of what structural engineers succeed or fail to do resulting in a lot of demanding work throughout their professional lives. They test little and through computer simulations and models, are able to calculate stresses, loads and deflections within materials. You cannot just become a structural engineer. It takes months of preparation even prior to entering college. The profession requires a heavy application of math and science.

You have to be comfortable with both geometry and trigonometry along with calculus. Applying the principles of physics is also needed. If you are far behind in the race for mastery of these subjects, you should probably not opt for the structural engineering course. In addition to specific classes in the sciences and math, it would also be beneficial to attend the classes in subjects such as dynamics and statics as the students of structural engineering often interface with others who study mechanical and electrical engineering.

You also have to be thoroughly prepared with the English language and be good at product drawings and reports in order to be able to write clearly and concisely. Structural engineering consultants are often hired by companies that want their students to be good at structural drawings and communication. Structural engineers must pass an extensive amount of tests and although all types of civil engineering degrees require testing and certification, structural engineering is a different ball game altogether.

Most structural engineers are certified and licensed and their educational background is an asset when they start on the job. The on job training is constantly ever changing and you have to keep in touch with the trends, designs and breakthroughs. With every project, you can learn new things and seek lessons that spell success for you and your company.

If you are an intellectually vibrant individual, opt for this challenging career in structural engineering. You can help create a difference that will transform your life monetarily while also creating ample opportunities for the growth and development of society.