Training the Next Generation – What’s The Plan?

Training the next generation of professionals whether in engineering, architecture, or construction is about more than completing a checklist or ticking off competencies.

In high-stakes industries like ours, success isn’t just about what you know it’s about how you apply that knowledge under real-world conditions. That’s especially true for structural engineers, where the consequences of poor judgement can be expensive, dangerous, or both.

It’s Not Just About Skills, It’s About Environment

Young engineers don’t just need tutorials and task lists.

They need to be immersed in an environment where they can see real decisions being made, understand the trade-offs involved, and learn how theoretical ideals play out on active sites.

This kind of learning doesn’t happen through check-ins or Teams calls.

It happens in the flow of the work through shared sketches, overheard conversations, and collaborative problem-solving 

Running structural analysis software is important.alongside experienced professionals.

Engineering Isn’t Just Technical. It’s Situational

But so is knowing:

  • When a design is over- or under-engineered
  • How to balance safety, cost, and programme
  • When (and how) to push back on unrealistic proposals
  • How to clearly explain structural risks to architects or clients

These aren’t things you learn in isolation.

They’re picked up by being in the room, listening, asking, and absorbing.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

Today’s engineers face increasing complexity climate pressures, legacy buildings, tighter budgets, faster programmes.

To prepare them properly, we need to create learning environments that are active, informal, and embedded in the work not siloed away in training manuals or periodic reviews.

We don’t just want engineers who are qualified.

We want them to be confident, competent, and trusted.

Finding the Balance: Office vs Remote Work

We believe in flexibility but not at the expense of development.

That’s why we work three days in the office and an optional two from home. It gives our team the best of both worlds

  • focused time for deep work, and
  • in-person collaboration that’s essential for learning.

The informal moments questions asked across the desk, solutions sketched on the spot just don’t happen the same way on Teams.

For junior engineers especially, this balance matters.

It ensures they’re surrounded by experience while still enjoying autonomy and flexibility.

How are you developing your junior engineers? Do you work hybrid? What have you found that works for you and your teams?

Let me know in the comments.

For clients, selecting the right Structural Engineer can make or break a project. But with the market flooded by individuals with varying levels of qualifications and experience, how can you tell the difference between an expert and someone unqualified to make critical structural decisions?

  • The hidden costs of errors

The truth is, a lack of expertise may not be evident—until it’s too late. Poorly designed structures can lead to increased construction costs, delays, or even safety risks.

  • Lower fees seem appealing

On paper, less experienced engineers may seem appealing due to lower fees, but the hidden costs of errors, redesigns, or failed inspections can far outweigh any initial savings.

  • Anticipate challenges before they arise

Chartered Structural Engineers bring invaluable benefits to your project; 

  • Years of training
  • accreditation
  • hands-on experience and
  • ensure designs that are not only compliant with building regulations but also optimised for cost-efficiency and long-term durability.

Qualified structural engineers anticipate challenges before they arise, offering innovative solutions that will save you time and money.

What qualifications should you look for?

When appointing a structural engineer, you should look for the following qualifications and attributes to ensure you hire a competent and trustworthy professional:

Formal Education and Accreditation

Professional Certifications

  • Look for Chartered status, such as CEng MIStructE (member of the Institution of Structural Engineers or CEng FIStructE (fellow of the Institution of Structural Engineers)  which demonstrates advanced qualifications and experience way beyond Masters Graduate.

Relevant Experience

  • Experience with similar projects, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial structures.
  • Expertise in addressing the specific challenges of your project (e.g., structural assessments, or defect diagnosis.

Knowledge of Building Regulations / Building Safety Act

  • Familiarity with building regulations and compliance requirements to ensure safety and legal adherence.
  • The Building Safety Act requires Clients to appoint competent designers

Communication and Collaboration Skills

  • A good structural engineer should be able to clearly explain technical concepts and work effectively with property owners, architects and contractors

Reputation and References

  • Positive reviews, recommendations, or case studies from previous clients.
  • Examples of completed projects that align with your needs.

Professional Insurance

  • Ensure the engineer carries Professional Indemnity Insurance, which protects you in case of errors or omissions in their work. What level of indemnity is provided? Is the cover adequate for your project?

Working with experienced professionals ensures confidence in your project’s success. Clients can rely on solutions that are both structurally sound and financially sustainable.

Don’t gamble on one of the biggest investments you’ll make; choose a structural engineer who can deliver expertise, precision, and reliability.

Feedback

Have you hired a structural engineer before? What was your experience like? Did you feel you received good value, or did the service leave you disappointed?

We’d love to hear about your experience …