Transcript A Career in Transportation Engineering The Real Story

Transportation Engineering
Dyan C. Damron, P.E., PTP
What is Engineering?
Definition of Engineering
• The application of scientific and
mathematical principles to design or
manufacture the operation of efficient and
economical structures, machines, processes,
and systems
• From Latin words meaning contrive (invent
or devise) and ability
Engineering
• An artistic approach to science
• Engineers find problems and solve them
• We make the world a better place and find
ways to make people’s lives safer and easier
• Scientific Method
Definition of Planning
• The process of anticipating future
occurrences and problems, exploring their
impact, and detailing policies, goals,
objectives, and strategies to solve the
problems. This often includes preparing
options documents, considering alternatives,
and issuing final plans.
• From French word meaning to plant
Transportation Engineering & Planning
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Transportation Planning
Roadway Design
Traffic Impact Studies
Signal Design
Signal Operations & Timing
Campus Traffic & Parking Plans
Parking Studies & Design
Traffic Calming
Bike & Pedestrian Plans
Safety & Access
Transportation Planning
Transportation Planning
Roadway Design
Interstate/Interchange Design
Traffic Impact Studies
Signal Design
Signal Operations & Timing
Campus Traffic & Parking
Traffic Calming
Bike & Pedestrian Plans
Bike & Pedestrian Plans
Transportation Engineering & Planning
• Technical Skills
• Knowledge of Resources & References –
aware of most current and innovative
guidelines
• Communication Skills – just as important
as technical skills
Transportation Engineering & Planning
• Adaptability
• Willingness to Learn
• Ability to work with people – lead and
follow
• Professionalism & Licensure
Benefits of Professional License
• Job Opportunities – Employers want
engineers who show a commitment to the
future by becoming registered. Many
engineering jobs require P.E. status.
• Respect – P.E.’s gain the respect of peers
within the engineering community. Registered
engineers also enhance their employers
reputation.
• Professionalism – Registration by a
majority of engineers is essential if you are to
enjoy the benefits of established professions
(think doctors and lawyers).
How to Get There
• Graduate from ABET accredited school
• Get as much experience as you can –
summer intern, co-op
• Take and pass FE exam
• Gain 4 years of experience
• Take and pass the PE exam
• Make the most of your education &
license
• Enjoy it!
How to Enjoy It
• Professional Societies – ITE
• Networking – both professional &
social
How to Enjoy It
• Meet new contacts for possible
employment
• Once employed, meet new clients
for new projects
Benefits of ITE
• As a member of ITE, you join a
dynamic, interactive group of more
than 17,000 transportation
professionals spanning more than
90+ countries dedicated to today’s
transportation challenges and their
solutions.
Benefits of ITE
• Founded in 1930, ITE is a community
of transportation professionals acting as
a source for expertise, knowledge and
ideas.
Benefits of ITE
• Benefits begin as a student
Benefits of ITE
• Form partnerships and develop
mentors in your field
Benefits of ITE
• Lifelong friends and business contacts
Benefits of ITE
• Travel for Section, District, and
International meetings
Benefits of ITE
• For additional info
–ite.org
–sdite.org
–tsite.org
–[email protected]