VIDEO
HIGHLIGHT
Log InSign up
What Do Civil Engineers Do?
SummaryTranscriptChat

What Do Civil Engineers Do?

Civil Engineering: Impact on Communities

Overview of Civil Engineering's Role

  • Civil engineering is integral to daily life, influencing infrastructure such as roads, water systems, and buildings.
  • Civil engineers enhance the quality of life for millions by improving community resources and environments.

James Wanaberg's Work in Washington D.C.

  • James Wanaberg is a resident engineer working on the Blue Plains Tunnel project aimed at creating a healthy ecosystem in the Potomac River.
  • The project focuses on eliminating sewer overflows into waterways, which ultimately affect the Chesapeake Bay.
  • The tunnel captures stormwater underground for later treatment after heavy rain events using a massive 26-foot diameter tunnel boring machine.
  • Civil engineering encompasses both visible infrastructure (roads, bridges) and hidden systems that are crucial yet often overlooked.
  • Wanaberg expresses enthusiasm for his work, highlighting the excitement of contributing to significant projects.

Maggie Jakes' Experience in Haiti

  • Maggie Jakes shares her transformative experience restoring clean drinking water in Haiti post-hurricane.
  • Her journey began with a college professor’s presentation about Haiti’s dire need for clean water due to cholera outbreaks exacerbated by an earthquake.
  • Jakes participated in repairs to existing water systems, providing hope and assistance to affected communities during her visit in 2011.
  • She reflects on how access to clean water in the U.S. is a result of dedicated civil engineers over many years.

Erin White's Innovative Design at Marlins Park

  • Erin White discusses her role as a civil engineer designing a hurricane-proof retractable roof for Marlins Park in Florida.
  • This unique roof can withstand category 5 hurricanes and allows wind flow to reduce pressure during storms while being cost-efficient regarding electricity usage.
  • The design process involved calculating optimal roof height using equations related to baseball trajectories to ensure safety during games.
Video description

If you look around, civil engineering is everywhere! Meet three civil engineers whose work is having a real impact on people's lives. Whether involved in projects underground, on huge structures or meeting the water needs of developing communities, these engineers are making a difference. See if you have what it takes to be a civil engineer.