Republic of the Philippines

SULTAN KUDARAT STATE UNIVERSITY

Isulan Campus, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
College of Engineering

Name: Rica Shimei M. De Savilla Crs./Yr/Sec: BSCE 1-A

Works of a Structural Engineer

Structural Engineering is among the oldest type of engineering. Dating back to the
first instance of a tree branch being lashed together with vines to make a shelter.
Structural Engineering focuses on the framework of structures, and on designing those
structures to withstand the stresses and pressures of their environment and remain
safe, stable, and secure throughout their use. In other words, structural engineers make
sure that buildings don’t fall down and bridges don’t collapse. Now, what does a
structural really do?

Structural Engineers often work alongside Civil Engineers and Architects as a part
of the construction team. An easy understanding of its job according to the Institution of
Structural Engineers, “If a structure was a human body, then Architects would be
concerned about the body shape and appearance, while the Structural Engineers will be
assigned to the skeleton and sinews”. Because of the safety issues involved in their
work, structural engineers must be trained to strict standards. Most structural
engineering courses require a related degree in an engineering discipline. After
graduation, structural engineers work toward professional qualification- becoming
Associated and then Chartered Members with the Institution of Structural Engineers.

Critical skills that a person needs in structural engineering include an in-depth

understanding of physics and mathematics. A structural engineer must also know the
properties of various materials, such as density, hardness, tensile strength, bulk
modules, and bending strengths. They need to be able to calculate how different
materials will perform under stresses such as various environmental conditions of
temperature, pressure, corrosive gases, liquids, and even radiation. They also need to
predict how these materials will perform over an extended period of time. Structural
Engineers rely increasingly on computer-aided design (CAD) systems because CAD
systems allow for quick and easy modifications of design and three-dimensional
visualization of finished part and assemblies.
 Becoming a structural engineer takes a substantial amount of time and
dedication including a focus on professional development. Once qualified, however, the
learning process continues, as new methods and materials are introduced into the
construction industry. Structural engineering jobs can take place across national and
international contexts and involve work on some of the most exciting construction
projects in the worl.