I’ll admit that I’m biased, but structural engineers have the best job in the world. We’re needed to create safe sound structures while factoring in the effects of environmental forces using a combination of physics and experience. It takes a really well rounded individual to do all of that.
In my opinion, the key to being a well rounded professional is to never stop learning or seeking out new resources in your industry. I thought I’d share with you some resources that may be helpful to you as a structural engineer, from my own experience:
Continuing Education Webinars
Attending webinars online is a great way to get Continuing Education credits you need. Webinars enable you to stay sharp on topics that are continually changing and that you may need to adapt to in our industry.
Some of the resources engineers at Simpson Strong-Tie go to for webinars and CECs include:
ACI – American Concrete Institute
AISC – American Institute of Steel Construction
ASCE – American Society of Civil Engineers
AWC – American Wood Council
CFSEI – Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute
NCSEA – National Council of Structural Engineers Association
SEAOSC – Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
Engineering Associations
Keeping in touch with fellow structural engineers means that you can talk shop and get some great advice about issues you face on the job. Some associations you can look into:
SEAINT- Structural Engineers Association – International
NCSEA- National Council of Structural Engineers Associations
SEAOC- Structural Engineers Association of California
SEAOSC- Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
SEAOCC- Structural Engineers Association of Central California
SEAOSD- Structural Engineers Association of San Diego
SEAU- Structural Engineers Association of Utah
ASCE- American Society Of Civil Engineers
ACI- American Concrete Institute
AISC- American Institute of Steel Construction
PCA- Portland Cement Association
PCI- Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute
CRSI- Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute
AISI- American Iron and Steel Institute
Simpson Strong-Tie also offers great software resources for structural engineers and other building industry professionals. What resources do you recommend? Let us know in the comments below.