WOMEN IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
What is structural Engineering?
Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering that is
concerned with the structural design of man-made structures. Often
described as designing the ‘bones and muscles’ of structures, these
engineers need to understand the rigidity, stability and strength of
both buildings and non-building structures. This includes factors such
as loading and susceptibility to earthquakes.
Structural engineers work with architects, building services engineers
and other professionals and may be charged with supervising construction
projects. In addition, structural engineers can also be involved in the
design of other assets where structural integrity impacts function and
safety, such as machinery, medical equipment and vehicles. Using
mathematics, physics, materials science and empirical knowledge, these
engineers need to understand the structural performance of different
materials and geometries in order to apply structural engineering design
concepts to build structural systems. This work needs to be completed
within budgetary requirements while making sure any structural elements
are suitable for purpose. The basic principles of structural engineering
date back thousands of years to the construction of structures including
the pyramids in Egypt and the Acropolis in Greece. However, modern-day
structural engineering has advanced to include a detailed body of
knowledge for the accurate prediction of how different materials, shapes
and structures will resist loads and stresses.
Learn more about women in structural engineering