A civil engineer deals with the problems of tomorrow as well as the challenges of today. Civil engineers work in cooperation with others in different fields to combine knowledge and creativity with the initiative to fulfill objectives, protect society, and meet the construction and operating budgets of their projects.

Today's civil engineer needs the technical expertise to develop new cost-effective techniques, materials, and technologies that will advance construction, manufacturing, and transportation, while at the same time addressing the need to maintain and upgrade current infrastructures and facilities. Civil engineers also must recognize and understand how their work may potentially affect the environment.

The need for well-trained civil engineers will be critical in the future. Civil engineers will make use of technologies such as Global Positioning Systems and advanced composite materials to meet the ever-increasing demands of society.