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The importance of accessibility in landscape architecture

Landscape architecture is an art and science that involves designing outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. One crucial aspect of landscape architecture is accessibility, which refers to designing spaces that can be used by everyone and are accessible to the population at large, including those with disabilities. At McNeil Engineering, we ensure our projects contain accessibility features so everyone can enjoy and experience them.

Accessibility is essential in landscape architecture, as it enables people to use and enjoy outdoor spaces to the fullest extent possible. Outdoor spaces that are inaccessible or difficult to navigate can be frustrating and discouraging for people with disabilities, limiting their ability to participate in social activities, exercise or simply enjoy the outdoors. Therefore, incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture is crucial for ensuring that outdoor spaces are inclusive and equitable for all.

Here are some reasons why accessibility is so important in landscape architecture:

Inclusivity

Accessibility features in landscape architecture enable people with disabilities to use and enjoy outdoor spaces on an equal footing with everyone else. This inclusivity promotes social integration and reduces stigmatization and discrimination against people with disabilities. It also creates a sense of community and belonging for people with disabilities, who may otherwise feel isolated and excluded from outdoor activities.

Health Benefits

Accessible outdoor spaces have significant health benefits for people with disabilities. Spending time outdoors can help reduce stress, improve mood and enhance overall physical and mental health. Accessible outdoor spaces enable people with disabilities to enjoy these benefits and enhance their quality of life.

Legal Requirements

In many countries, accessibility is a legal requirement for outdoor spaces. Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States mandate that public outdoor areas must be accessible to people with disabilities. Failure to comply with these laws can result in legal consequences, such as fines and lawsuits. Therefore, incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture is a moral obligation and a legal requirement.

Economic Benefits

Accessible outdoor spaces have economic benefits for the community as a whole. They attract a more diverse group of visitors, including people with disabilities, their families and friends. This increased foot traffic can increase local businesses and tourism revenue. Additionally, accessible outdoor spaces can increase property values in surrounding areas, making them more attractive to potential buyers.

Sustainable Design

Incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture promotes sustainable design. Features such as permeable paving, rain gardens, and green roofs can enhance accessibility while conserving water, reducing stormwater runoff and improving air quality. Additionally, sustainable design can reduce maintenance costs and increase the longevity of outdoor spaces, making them more accessible and functional over time.

So, what are some examples of accessibility features in landscape architecture? Here are a few:

Accessible Pathways

Accessible pathways are essential for people with disabilities to navigate outdoor spaces safely and independently. These pathways should be wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility aids, with a smooth and slip-resistant surface. Additionally, pathways should be well-lit and free of obstacles that may obstruct people’s movement.

Seating Areas

Seating areas are an essential feature of accessible outdoor spaces, allowing people to rest and relax. Seating areas should be designed to accommodate people with disabilities, with benches and chairs that are easy to access and use. Additionally, seating areas should be placed in shaded areas and protected from the elements.

Ramps and Lifts

Ramps and lifts are critical accessibility features that enable people with disabilities to navigate elevation changes. These features should be designed to be easily accessible and safe to use, with non-slip surfaces and appropriate handrails. Additionally, ramps and lifts should be located in well-lit and visible areas to ensure all users’ safety.

Braille and Tactile Signage

Braille and tactile signage are essential accessibility features for people with visual impairments. These signs provide information about the outdoor space, such as directions, warnings, and amenities. Braille and tactile signage should be located at strategic points along accessible pathways and designed to be easily readable and understandable.

Accessible Planters and Gardens

In urban gardens or design features, accessible planters and gardens should be available. They provide people with disabilities the opportunity to engage in gardening activities. These features should be designed to be easily accessible, with raised garden beds that are wheelchair-friendly and easy to use. Additionally, plants and gardening tools should be selected to ensure they are easy to reach and use for people with disabilities.

Accessibility is a crucial aspect of landscape architecture that promotes inclusivity, enhances health, meets legal requirements, provides economic benefits, and promotes sustainable design. Incorporating accessibility features into outdoor spaces ensures that people with disabilities can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors to the fullest extent possible. Therefore, landscape architects should prioritize accessibility in their designs and work to create outdoor spaces that are inclusive and equitable for all.

We hope you’ll contact us if you ever need a landscape architect to help you with a new project, or if you’d like to update an existing structure for more accessibility. You can also check out some of our previous landscape architecture projects here.

What are the differences between civil and structural engineers?

As the name suggests, we have various engineers on staff here at McNeil Engineering. The two main types of engineers we employ are civil engineers and structural ones. We thought it might be helpful to dive deeply into the differences between these two types of engineers and why you might need them on a job site! First, civil engineering and structural engineers are two distinct yet related professions within the engineering field. While both types of engineering work deal with the design and construction of buildings, infrastructure, and other structures, the two have significant differences. At McNeil Engineering, we have two separate service pages for civil and structural engineering projects.

Civil engineering is a broad field that encompasses the built environment’s design, construction, and maintenance. Civil engineers work on various projects, from roads and bridges to buildings, airports, and water treatment facilities. They are involved in every project stage, from initial planning and design to construction and maintenance. You can see examples of some of our Civil Engineering Projects here and read exactly what McNeil Engineering did on each site.

On the other hand, structural engineering is a subfield of civil engineering that focuses specifically on the design and analysis of structures. Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring that a building or structure can support the weight it was designed to hold and resist external forces and pressures, such as wind, earthquakes, and fire. Our structural engineers use advanced mathematical and engineering principles to determine the optimal design for a given structure and ensure it is safe and secure. Examples of some of our structural engineering projects are here. We’re pretty proud of these too.

Education and Training

Both civil engineers and structural engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, with a focus on their respective fields and area of expertise. Civil engineers may specialize in transportation, water resources, or environmental engineering. Structural engineers, on the other hand, may want to focus on the design of buildings, bridges, or different types of structures.

In addition to a formal education, civil and structural engineers must be licensed by their state or country to practice professionally. This usually involves passing an exam that covers both theory and practical applications.

Scope of Work

Civil engineers can be involved in various projects, from designing roads and bridges to planning and constructing buildings, water treatment facilities, and airports. To create efficient and effective solutions, they consider various factors, such as environmental impact, zoning laws, and cost constraints. Civil engineers also play a critical role in ensuring that structures are built to last, by developing maintenance plans and conducting regular inspections of buildings and structures.

Structural engineers, on the other hand, focus exclusively on the design and analysis of structures. They use mathematical models and computer simulations to test the strength and stability of a structure and identify areas of potential weakness. They also work closely with architects and contractors to ensure their designs are practical, safe, and feasible. Structural engineers may also be called upon to assess existing structures and recommend repairs or upgrades.

Technical Skills

Civil engineers must have a wide range of technical skills, including proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, project management tools, and engineering analysis software. They must also be familiar with various construction materials, techniques, environmental regulations (local and federal level), and safety codes of multiple buildings and structures.

Structural engineers deeply understand structural mechanics, materials science, and engineering mathematics. They use these skills to create models and simulations that predict the behavior of a structure under different loads and conditions. They must also be able to use specialized software, such as finite element analysis (FEA) tools, to test and refine their designs.

Problem-Solving Approaches

Civil engineers must consider various factors when developing solutions to complex problems. They must balance cost, safety, and environmental impact while considering local regulations and possible cultural sensitivities that might arise during projects. Civil engineers must be creative, adaptable, and able to think outside the box to find innovative solutions to complex problems.

Structural engineers must be highly analytical and precise in their approach to problem-solving. They must be able to analyze complex data and develop mathematical models to predict the behavior of a structure under different loads and conditions. They must also be able to work with architects and contractors to integrate their designs into the overall project plan.

We hope this has helped you understand some similarities and differences between civil and structural engineers. Here at McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to employ both. That means we work on projects that incorporate civil and structural engineering and are experts in both domains. If you could benefit from our civil or structural engineers, Visit us here and contact a team member today. We’d be happy to discuss an upcoming project for any of our services.

What does a digital transformation in civil engineering really mean?

The technological revolution and digital transformation of entire industries have changed the way we do business in America and around the world. The ongoing digital transformation of society has without a doubt completely changed the working world. With the rise of cloud software, the internet of things, and automation, global businesses can now communicate and solve problems faster, as well as serve a far wider audience. Businesses and individuals are no longer constrained by distance. Collaboration can happen just about anywhere. And the same is true for the civil engineering sector. Civil engineers in Utah and beyond know that technology has massively changed how they do their jobs.

Engineering remains a cornerstone of the global economy and today, civil engineers are more collaborative and have access to a vast amount of data. Digitisation has changed the way engineers operate and make decisions, as there’s a much broader scope of technology to utilize in just about every aspect of our jobs. We can get projects done faster and more accurately than ever before. Here at McNeil Engineering, we proudly embrace the digital and technological revolution to more effectively complete jobs on behalf of our clients.

How the Digital Transformation Impacts Civil Engineering

The digital transformation in the civil engineering sector has massively changed how we proceed on projects. And while engineering has always been an ever-evolving discipline, digital transformation has only amplified this effect. New technologies have sped up product development, transportation, project management, data storage and transfer, and real-time data management. Much like so many other industries, the increasing use of digital technology has made engineering a much more data-driven sector. It’s now more important than ever that businesses equip themselves with the right technologies for sustainable growth in the sector. Otherwise, they will find the competition leaving them in the dust.

One of the main ways digital transformation has impacted civil and structural engineering is through cloud computing. While it’s not a new technology, the cloud is now used by engineers all over the world, and they use it to great effect. For example, cloud computing allows engineers to store their digital designs all in the same place before construction. Long gone are the days when engineers had to rummage through metal filing cabinets to find the engineering diagrams, blueprints, and files they need. The value of cloud computing in engineering relies on data capture, storage and transmission, 3D modeling, and creating the best possible customer experience. These are all factors we closely consider as we lay out our digital transformation strategy here at McNeil Engineering.

Digital transformation and the rise of big data have paved the way for digital twin applications. Engineering firms all over the world now use digital twin applications to greatly improve their effectiveness on engineering projects. But what is a digital twin? Put simply, a digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object used to gather and analyze data to predict how the object will perform in real life. The use of a “digital twin” is just one more example of how digital transformation has paved the way for predictive analysis in engineering and new ways of collaborating and innovating.

The Future Look Bright for Civil Engineering

What does the future of engineering portend in light of this new digital transformation of society? Well, for one, you can expect the engineering discipline to become even more complex and innovative. Civil engineers themselves will need to be more versatile, adaptable, and flexible if they want to overcome challenging issues around the cities and states we live in. And with so many infrastructure jobs starting all over the country, engineering firms will be tested to ensure they have adapted to the digital transformation all around us.

Take climate change as one example. As companies shift to sustainable methodologies and technologies, climate change has been an ongoing issue for many years now and it’s created a need for sustainable practices in our everyday lives. This means engineers will need to focus on building sustainable structures that have a positive effect on the environment.

Digital transformation and the rise of new technologies will increasingly play pivotal roles in a more sustainable future. Furthermore, as a result of digital transformation, augmented reality has the potential to redefine the future of engineering. Augmented reality – which is an interactive version of the real world – can be used for assembly, engineering training, and quality control. However, going forward, businesses must ensure they plan how they will integrate augmented reality and other advanced software, to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Above all, digital transformation means the engineering sector will rely much more on digital data, analytics, and virtual representations of the real world to deliver the best products in the right environments.

At McNeil Engineering, we pay very close attention to emerging technologies and how they impact the field we operate in. Are you ready to partner with a future-forward engineering company that’s fully embraced a digitally transformed future? Contact us today!

The greening of civil engineering

Climate change, pollution-related illnesses, and energy costs have prompted engineers and architects to innovate and evolve. Times have changed. New residential and commercial buildings and renovations are designed to be more environmentally friendly, thereby reducing emissions, illnesses, and energy consumption. This is the trend no matter where you look in the world. Using sustainable practices is a hot trend in renovation and new building development, one that was developed more than 50 years ago when most builders and designers gave the idea little thought. Today, if you aren’t designing and building sustainably, you’re missing out.

We’re proud to support sustainable development here at McNeil Engineering. We understand that environmental solutions that safeguard our planet for future generations have always been at the forefront of new projects. But what other steps can the civil engineering sector take to support sustainable engineering efforts further?

It’s time to go sustainable

Many businesses, specifically those within the construction and civil engineering industries, are under pressure to implement more sustainable practices. Governments worldwide have challenged companies to become net carbon neutral by – at the minimum – 2050. The Environmental Protection Agency wants to reach this target and meet the goal of net zero by 2030. Will states meet it?

Environmental concerns have pushed some companies to identify greener, or environmentally safer, manufacturing, shipping and design options. And we support these efforts. Green engineering is a concept that focuses on minimizing a company’s environmental impact and streamlining its operations. In many cases, these efforts yield productivity benefits in the long run.

Understanding green engineering may help you or your employer decide to use this design method for your needs, no matter what kind of project you’re working on. What is green engineering and what are its core principles? We’ll provide some green engineering benefits and include several examples discussing green engineering in the workplace.

What is green engineering?

Green engineering utilizes engineering processes and methods that minimize pollution, improve a business’ sustainability, and decrease the potential for health issues caused by unsafe manufacturing and design methods. It is incumbent on manufacturers and engineering firms to conduct proper due diligence and operate only to the highest environmental standards. But how can individual engineers do this?

Well, for one, engineers can do this by nothing more than improving existing processes. Successful green engineering examines sustainability issues, such as fossil fuel use, measures a product or service’s life cycle, identifies potential waste concerns, and decreases the likelihood of these problems occurring with innovative concepts. Engineers understand how to evaluate these concepts and make design decisions based on them. There are specific aspects of green engineering to consider:

1. Waste Management and Reduction

Modern commercial manufacturing processes have a problem. They’re dirty. Many commercial processes, such as manufacturing and shipping products, may waste energy through inefficient manufacturing and delivery methods. The question underlying sustainable engineering is how to eliminate this waste. What kind of new production methods can be introduced or innovated to reduce waste?

2. Pollution Management and Reduction

It may seem simplistic to ask why pollution is a problem. We all know that pollution is a problem at every level of society. Pollution prevention focuses on identifying a company’s pollution sources and minimizing the waste it produces. Engineers may identify why pollution occurs, find processing methods that decrease its spread, integrate newer and cleaner techniques, and enhance manufacturing and delivery cleanliness. Civil and structural engineers play an important role in this process.

3. Product Optimization and Enhancement

Guess what sustainable engineering firms focus on? Sustainable engineering firms try to find ways to improve the products or services they’re engineering while making them safer for the environment. This is generally a multi-pronged effort. This process may include finding alternate energy sources that work better than traditional options or identifying greener and more efficient manufacturing materials and methods. Engineers must operate within this mindset to find the most sustainable or “green” solutions to a particular engineering problem.

4. Materials Efficiency and Management

What does materials efficiency and materials management mean? Essentially, materials management entails finding better and safer materials for diverse engineering purposes. Finding more advanced materials is especially important in the product design and manufacturing phase. Engineers may identify new and safer materials or invent options to integrate into their plans and find better and more efficient production methods. When engineers innovate, we all win.

We support sustainable engineering methods here at McNeil Engineering. Our engineers understand the importance of sustainability in our profession. Contact us today to learn more.

Construction, Architecture, and Engineering Starts in 2023

Construction, Architecture, and Engineering Starts in 2022 and 2023

As one of Utah’s top civil and structural engineering, roofing, paving, and laser scanning companies, the vast majority of our work takes place in concert with the construction sector. As such, we pay close attention to the ups and downs that take place in the construction industry. So, as we close out 2022, a big question on everyone’s mind is, what will 2023 bring? Today, we will take a deep dive into what we expect the future to hold for the construction sector, both here in Utah and beyond.

How Have the U.S. Construction and Civil Engineering Sectors Fared in 2022?

In short, the construction sector is going to go through some rough spots, but it will come out resilient on the other side. The industry will continue to face labor shortages, high materials costs, and other headwinds, but infrastructure will be a bright spot. With the massive infrastructure bill working its way through the economy, construction spending on infrastructure jobs will only rise further. Still, with 2022 being a mixed bag for the construction industry, there are lots of unknowns.

Economic shocks of various types and severities have defined 2022. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been one hit after another. This past year brought skyrocketing inflation and interest rates. But as people cope with higher prices, they make cuts elsewhere. Fortunately for construction professionals and civil engineers, there is reason to be optimistic about the state of the economy, despite the rocky economic conditions.

Inflation has been a major concern in 2022, climbing to a 40-year high in June. Economists across the board fretted over the state of the economy and the resiliency of the American consumer. The problem was multi-faceted. It was fueled by ongoing supply chain bottlenecks brought on by pandemic stresses as well as Russia’s unprovoked aggression in Ukraine. Commodities went through the roof and, as a result, prices jumped on key construction materials. Everything from cement to diesel fuel and asphalt – prices rose dramatically. The industry also continued to struggle to attract enough workers in an overall tight labor market.

As the new year approaches, the big question on construction leaders’ minds is what’s in store for 2023. Top construction economists say it’s hard to say. The picture is muddied by a variety of factors. But what are those factors? Let’s dig a little deeper.

What are Architects Up To?

There is a common thread in the construction sector. When architects have work, so do contractors, civil engineers, structural engineers, roofers, and so on. Those who design the structures we build every day represent the foundation of the construction job. When architects are busy, so are contractors and civil and structural engineers. The good news is architecture industry performance remained positive in 2022. The bad news hit in October when it took a sharp downward turn. What does that mean? In short, it could indicate that recession fears and inflation have finally started to appear in the construction and civil engineering sectors. As a result, this may translate to a drop in available construction work at the latter end of next year.

How is the Construction Backlog?

New construction starts are important and act as a bellwether for contractor and engineer confidence. The construction industry’s backlog has remained positive over the past year but dipped in June and July and declined again in October from the previous month. Still, it is higher than it was in the same period one year ago. We aren’t in a horrible position, from a national or local perspective.

Backlog in the commercial construction vertical posted its largest monthly decline in October since July 2020. That’s a big dip. The bright spot? Infrastructure and heavy industrial projects posted growth, despite the decline in commercial construction starts. Even better, the infrastructure and heavy industrial verticals will likely remain bright spots in the coming years as federal funding continues to flow into those sectors.

In general, most economists and industry insiders expect a big pickup in construction starts, civil engineering jobs, and other growth associated with increasing development. As money from the infrastructure bill starts to be awarded and contractors get to work on those projects, we will see a big uptick in the sector. Could this mean inflation drops even as we avoid a recession?

We’re also going to see big pickups in manufacturing construction, especially for semiconductor manufacturing plants. The CHIPS Act has unleashed a wave of investment in giant semiconductor factories. We’ll also see increased electric vehicle, battery, components, and battery charging manufacturing plant production. And finally, expect to see renewable energy projects funded by tax credits and other incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act to blossom across the country.

Here at McNeil Engineering, we are excited to see this growth and economic activity both here in Utah and across the country. In the end, 2023 may be better than expected. If we can see inflation drop and interest rates drop without a recession, we’ll be in a good place. We’ve got a positive outlook. Here’s to a bright 2023!

What does the global 2023 construction outlook reveal?

It’s no secret that 2022 has been a complicated year. The construction sector has seen some serious highs and lows as the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic linger. Add in soaring inflation, big infrastructure spending, and a hot job market and it truly is a confusing environment for civil engineering firms in Utah. The question now is, what will 2023 bring? Let’s take a moment in today’s blog post to find the answer.

The United States 2023 Construction Outlook

The United States benefits from big infrastructure projects and an economy that’s still humming. Analysts are seeing an easing in inflation and lead times for certain building materials. Still, pricing remains stubbornly high. Optimistic projections point to a mild and short recession, mainly because of high employment and a dropping consumer price index (CPI) reading.

Here is how construction spending in six sectors is going to look. Expect manufacturing, highways, transportation, multifamily housing, lodging, and communications to expand by at least 5% next year. Another four other sectors, which include healthcare, public safety, education, and commercial, are expected to grow by zero to 4%. And there will be a slight decline in construction spending for single-family housing, power, improvements, and office buildings.

Finally, let’s take a local look. Utah added some 50,600 new jobs over the past 12 months, a 3.1% increase, with the numbers in fast-growing Washington County and the rest of southwestern Utah closer to 4%, according to a new report from the state Department of Workforce Services. And what was the fastest-growing sector in Utah over the past year? Construction, which added 15,100 new jobs. Utah continues to be one of the best-performing economies in the United States.

The European Union’s 2023 Construction Outlook

Meanwhile, across the pond, analysts are a lot more pessimistic about the European construction outlook. According to one reading from a European construction research group Construction output growth across Europe will drop to 0.2% in 2023 and drop even further to flat in 2024, with the reason being the ongoing war in Ukraine. But Europe is also grappling with rising interest rates, inflation, and material shortages.

Many analysts expect this to be a rough period of adjustment for the construction sector. Why? Because nearly all factors that affect construction demand are trending negatively in the Eurozone. These include the economy, consumer prices, interest rates, and consumer confidence. Specifically in Europe, demand for civil engineering has been lifted by big public and private investments in low-carbon energy and transport schemes. Still, the prospects for residential output drag down the overall outlook for the sector. And unlike the United States, Europe is not rolling out huge infrastructure investments across the board to its member countries.

It was only as recently as early summer that many were expecting a 2.2% growth in GDP in the Eurozone, even taking the war in Ukraine into account. Those estimates have been revised down to as little as 0.5%. Fortunately, the civil engineering outlook in Europe looks positive as many countries invest in low-carbon energy and renovate existing infrastructure, albeit with projects small in scope than those in the United States.

The U.K.’s 2023 Construction Outlook

The United Kingdom relies on seasonal construction forecasts released by the Construction Products Association (CPA). So, what does this upcoming forecast say about the state of construction in the U.K.? Well, according to the Autumn Construction Forecast, construction output is forecast to fall by 3.9% in 2023. Contrast that with 2022, when construction activity rose by 2%, and you’ve got a pretty wild swing. Currently, construction activity is at above-normal levels as activity continues at a high level.

It is also important to consider that the huge decline in activity for fall 2023 is a sharp downward revision from -0.4% in even the worst scenario included in the U.K.’s CPA Summer Construction Forecast. Why? Mainly due to the impact of a wider economic recession, exacerbated by the effect of the ‘Mini Budget,’ and the consequent fallout from recent political uncertainty. With the U.K. having set a record for the shortest term for a prime minister in recorded history, lots of important projects have been either shelved or delayed.

The fact is there is still much uncertainty around the United Kingdom’s economy. There are still many factors that will adversely affect the construction forecast within the country. These factors include falls in real wages and potential further rises in interest rates, which will likely lead to further falls in consumer spending decisions.

On top of these issues, the wider uncertainty around the UK economy means that demand for private housing new build and private housing repair, maintenance, and improvement, is expected to fall. But what about commercial builds? Other key construction sectors such as commercial and infrastructure are also expected to be adversely impacted by valid worries about construction cost inflation. Rising prices are sure to negatively impact and possibly directly hinder project viability.

So, with that update on the U.S. and European construction outlook, 2023 appears to be a year of contraction, although more in some places than others. Here at McNeil Engineering, we are ready to serve our clients with top-level civil engineering services on construction projects in Utah and beyond. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Why is licensing important for civil engineers?

The market is tight out there. Whether here in Utah or other states, civil engineers are in high demand. With massive infrastructure spending and a post-pandemic boom economy, civil engineers are needed for everything from buildings to bridges and more. There is rising demand for those with a demonstrated ability to perform to the highest standards of the discipline—namely, fully licensed, professional civil and structural engineers in Utah and beyond!

Infrastructure and Climate Change

Let’s go back to the strong need for engineers thanks to infrastructure spending. Because after decades of neglect, America’s civil infrastructure is drawing more than just attention from legislators and the media—it’s attracting investment. Money is being poured into public works projects to revitalize the nation’s infrastructure.

Did you hear about the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act? This wide-ranging legislation was passed into law in November 2021. States across the country gain access to $1.2 trillion in spending on a broad swath of initiatives. In the end, it’s up to them, but in Utah and beyond, municipalities are shoring up aging roads and bridges and building out broadband communications networks.

And let’s not overlook the EV boom. Powered by consumers and incentivized by governments, the rush to EVs has changed the energy and infrastructure landscapes. States must undertake widespread upgrades and additions to the power grid and battery-charging infrastructure if we are to transition to an EV-dominated future truly.

In the end, it will be about more than electric vehicles. Civil engineers will be needed to help plan for and execute massive public works projects designed to mitigate the effects of rising sea levels, intensifying storms, droughts, forest fires, and the like.

Considering the number of construction projects that need completing, civil engineers have never been more crucial. The growing number of infrastructure projects is likely to increase the need for civil engineers in states across the country. That’s why we’ve talked a lot about the necessity for more people in the pipeline to study civil engineering.

The complexity and scale of many of these future infrastructure projects are likely to require greater civil engineering expertise. Combine the two, and you have rising demand for those with a demonstrated ability to perform to the highest standards of the discipline—namely, fully licensed professional engineers.

Why Maintaining Your License is so Important

When you are licensed, you are marked as a true professional. Licensing standards are recognized by employers around the country. Licensing represents a standard recognized by employers and their clients, governments, and by the public as an assurance of dedication, skill, and quality. Professional civil engineers in Utah and beyond must be licensed to do their job. In most cases, employers will not hire engineers who do not have their licenses.

There are many powerful reasons both professional and personal for earning and maintaining a PE license. Only a licensed engineer, for instance, may prepare, sign, seal and submit engineering plans and drawings to a public authority for approval, or to seal engineering work for public and private clients.

For consulting engineers and private practitioners, licensure is an absolute requirement. In fact, it is a legal requirement for those who are in responsible charge of work, be they, principals or employees. State and federal officials will not countenance engineering firms hiring unlicensed engineers. After all, human life is at stake. Imagine an unlicensed engineer working on a bridge used by thousands of people every day. Subpar engineering work completed by unlicensed professionals could be deadly.

Professional Engineers are a Requirement on Official Jobsites

More and more with each passing day, government agencies, educational institutions, and private industries are requiring that they hire and contract only licensed professional engineers. This is a trend that is almost certain to continue in the future. Today, no matter what career path a professional engineer chooses, a successful, ongoing career virtually requires a license.

Take accountants as a separate example. CPAs require a specific license to offer accounting services. Lawyers also require specific licensing. Would you work with a professional who was not licensed to do the work you need them for? Likely not. The licenses civil engineers get demonstrate their commitment to the high standards of the civil engineering process. Potential clients use that licensure as proof of your ability to offer engineering services to the public.

Today, employers and government agencies value the peace of mind professional licensure provides. Preparing for the examinations required to qualify for the license broadens workers’ skills. It helps them gain skills that translate into jobs in other engineering disciplines. At McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to count licensed, professional engineers among our crew. We offer only the best engineering civil and structural engineering services for our clients. To learn more about the work we’ve done across Utah, simply visit our projects page.

Engineering trends and technologies reshaping the discipline

The engineering industry is always adapting and changing to current conditions. As new technology becomes available and new possibilities make themselves clear, engineering shifts with the times. As a result, we see changes in everything from how designs are conceived to how projects are managed. But what are some of the specific changes we’re seeing? And how might they affect the future of our discipline?

Here’s a fact. The revolution may not be televised, but it will be digitized. From consumer shopping behaviors to industrial manufacturing processes to healthcare delivery, times are changing, and engineering disciplines need to change with them. The rapid rise of digital technology has created a major shortage of talent. In fact, according to a recent Deloitte study, this talent shortage could cost the US economy as much as $1 trillion by 2030.

With broad technical knowledge across multiple engineering disciplines, mechanical, civil, and structural engineers are well-positioned to thrive in this environment. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t part of the nearly 50 percent of all employees the World Economic Forum estimates will need digital upskilling by 2025.

What emerging technologies should those in the engineering profession be most familiarized with?

1. Your Very Own Digital Twin

Have you ever heard of a digital twin? It is not a new idea, but we’re just now starting to see it affecting engineering industries in a major way. For those unfamiliar with the term, a digital twin is an exact replica of something in the physical world, rendered digitally. Designed by way of sensors placed on and around the physical objects, these digital renderings give engineers unprecedented insight into performance. Digital modeling of this types gives engineers new insight into how buildings, bridges and roads are conceptualized and designed.

But what is the digital twin exacty? Consider a digital twin as nothing more than a component of something. This could be a building component, aircraft engine, or anything else that might involve engineering or design work. Engineers use digital twin modeling to find and fix emerging changes or problems with performance, or they can use it to come up with and and test solutions that can then be implemented in the real world.

2. Automation and AI

These could be mutually exclusive categories, but there is a lot of overlap. Automation, AI and robotics seem to be rapidly advancing in lockstep. The march of machine learning has produced countless benefits for the engineering industry in the process. These technologies can analyze projects, come up with solutions, monitor materials, and in some cases even carry out physical engineering projects in a way that makes humans’ jobs safer and simpler. Civil engineers benefit from advances in different types of modeling and materials sciences.

Machine learning and AI technologies are ever-evolving. Manufacturers and robotics companies tweak new AI systems and adapt them to new functions. Now, with the advent of quantum computing, machine learning and robotics to new heights as well. It could be that what we now look at as technologies that assist engineers and simplify projects will soon redefine the entire industry. Civil and structural engineers may benefit from entirely new methodologies driven by machine learning.

3. Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing has revolutionized the construction and manufacturing sectors. Manufacturers using additive manufacturing provides increased agility in managing supply chain issues. This technology played a key role in reducing the strain for manufacturers during the COVID-19 pandemic and became one of mechanical engineering’s fastest-changing technologies.

In some respects, 3D printing is beginning to change the very nature of engineering. Why? Because it’s providing a new way to manufacture parts for use in projects — from components of airplanes and automobiles to the basic structure of “printed” homes and even sections of commercial buildings. Entire industries are changing thanks to the ease of designing and building new components using 3D printing.

3D printing provides a new way for engineers to test designs and produce models. As the technology is becoming more available (and frankly, better), we’re poised to see both practices become mainstream in the engineering industry. And this will impact engineering disciplines of all stripes, from mechanical to civil and structural.

Most civil engineers are familiar with at least the basics of additive manufacturing, but that won’t be enough as building and design standards change and adapt to new techniques and methodologies. Advances in sustainability, speed, materials, and use cases mean 3D printing is making a future of net-zero, distributed manufacturing a viable reality. As 3D printing adoption accelerates, be on the lookout for government regulations and standardization processes that will inevitably follow. Engineers must stay on top of these developments, regardless of their particular discipline type.

At McNeil Engineering, we always keep our finger in the wind of technological change within the engineering sector. From advances in business information modeling and laser scanning to landscape architecture, we stay at the forefront of change in civil and structural engineering.

Should you become a civil engineer?

We may be biased, but we would answer that question with a resounding yes. But we’ve got to do more than simply tell you to do something. We must tell you why. What makes civil engineering a compelling discipline to study? Well, if you are interested in physical processes in the real world, civil engineering may be right for you. Civil engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines that contribute to the physical world around us.

Civil engineers are very often involved in the planning and design of large-scale projects. Civil engineering jobs typically involve building and developing big infrastructure jobs, such as tunnels, or airports. And with all this infrastructure money flowing into state coffers for new infrastructure projects, civil engineers are in greater need than ever before. From sewage treatment plants to water distribution networks, civil engineers work on it all.

Still, not all civil engineers are involved in infrastructure planning and design. Many civil engineers work in the building process itself or related construction activities like demolition. There are a lot of different types of civil engineering jobs as well. The fact is civil engineers are in high demand.

Many career paths

Courses in Civil Engineering can be used as a stepping stone to a wide range of careers. Rail, marine, transit, tunnel, sewer, and other subfields of civil engineering exist. No matter what kind of building or construction work you’re interested in, there’s likely a civil engineering specialty that covers it. A civil engineering degree, therefore, provides you with a way to switch careers should you choose.

Leave a mark on the world

As a civil engineer, you could be building bridges and designing monuments. When amazing things get constructed, you could be a direct part of it. Civil engineering allows you to really leave your mark on the world. Put in the time and effort to move your career in the direction of large-scale, high-profile building projects and you could wind up in the upper echelons of civil engineers in modern history. The works of many great engineers will endure for decades, if not centuries, cementing their place in history.

Work wherever you want

One of the great perks of being a civil engineer is your ability to work in a variety of environments. One day you might be in the office pouring over plans and the next you might be on the job site. Many civil engineers work in both indoor and outdoor environments. And in many cases, you can work anywhere you want in the world. Of course, we recommend gainful employment in the great state of Utah, but there are certainly other places where civil engineers find work.

You’re a planner

There’s something inherently satisfying about planning things. You consider yourself an avid planner and really shine when it comes to planning a building, a road system, or a whole development. You understand the importance of improvement. As a civil engineer, you will be continuously making improvements for society in all kinds of civil engineering projects.

Get the respect you deserve

Did you know that civil engineering is a highly respected discipline? That’s right, many people regard civil engineers with a high level of respect. They hold them in high regard, and for good reason. Civil engineers are in high demand all over the world. Their work is essential for the advancement of society and requires thorough education and a diverse skill set. Pursuing this career may provide you with a prestigious job that impresses others and provides you with a sense of fulfillment.

Do you like working with others? Civil engineering is an appealing career for people who enjoy working with others. Civil engineers often collaborate with other professionals, both in engineering and other professions. They also work with professionals from outside of their energy, such as clients, government officials and community leaders. This creates opportunities to network with other professionals and creates successful partnerships with a variety of people. Networking is often the key to success, and civil engineers have ample networking opportunities.

For those with strong critical thinking skills and a desire to find efficiencies in their work, civil engineering can be a worthy career choice. If you’re someone who likes puzzles or building things out of materials, you might enjoy some of the practical applications of this branch of engineering. No matter what your reasoning is, civil engineering is a rewarding and potentially lucrative career. It’s one where you can see the visual fruits of your labors and take great pride in your work. We certainly take great pride in ours.

We’re proud of our civil engineering core here at McNeil Engineering. These are professionals who’ve been steeped in the tradition for many years. Learn more about our civil engineering services today and get in touch for all your civil and structural engineering needs!

Why is Utah such a great place for business?

We’re proud to be a Utah-based engineering firm. We’ve called his great state our home for more than 30 years. And although the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge for everyone, we were fortunate to count on our clients here in Utah and beyond to help carry us through. Now, we are thriving. But we aren’t the only ones. Sure, there’s a lot of construction going on. Developers are more in need of engineering services than ever before. And there’s a good reason for that. Simply put, Utah has a great environment for business. Let’s take a closer look at why.

Why does Utah have such a pro-business climate?

Let’s look at all of the individual reasons why engineering firms, construction companies, retail businesses and other companies thrive in Utah’s climate. First, Utah has a very high rate of upward mobility for workers within its economy when compared to other states. What does that mean in practice? Well, “upward mobility” refers to the chances of a person being raised in the bottom fifth income bracket and reaching the top fifth income bracket. There are a lot of people in Utah who have bootstrapped themselves to success, and it’s because Utah provides them with that opportunity.

Utah has also established itself as a tech hub. Our “Silicon Slopes” is home to some of the biggest tech companies in the world. Northern Utah has facilities where some big names in tech conduct research and create products and services. They include big names like Adobe, EA Sports, and the Intel/Micron joint venture IM Flash Technologies. Many students who have graduated from prestigious Utah universities have found internships or built careers at companies that have a presence in the Silicon Slopes.

Utah also has a favorable regulatory and tax climate. The Beehive State offers a flat five percent personal and corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the nation. Small businesses benefit from low-tax environments. And while low taxes are important to small businesses, a stable tax rate is equally important. Utah small businesses have benefited from the predictability of the state’s flat tax, which was first introduced two decades ago.

Utah remains a desirable state

Utah has been increasingly recognized as one of the top places in the country for business. As recent research suggests, Utah’s pro-business climate is enhanced by the state’s strong and stable economy. Utah has one of the biggest worker shortages in the Union. Utahns don’t have to go far to see the effects of the labor shortage — from hiring signs in restaurants and gas stations to businesses still running on reduced hours. Many of our favorite businesses are still shuttered or working at half-staff.

Utah sits at the epicenter of growth in the Intermountain West. Businesses flock to Utah and the state’s economy functions as a growth engine in the region. Utah continues to have one of the strongest economies in the country. Currently, Utah is tied for the second lowest unemployment rate in the country, at 2.1%, according to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers continue to struggle to keep employees on and not only replace those who leave, but grow their workforce.

OThisis a problem that also has benefits. But of course, there are also challenges. All this unbridled growth has created a need for workers that the state hasn’t been able to keep up with. As a result, companies must push up wages to attract workers and raise prices on their products and services. The low unemployment rate could be inflationary. And yet, people from all over the country continue to move to Utah to find opportunities.

Businesses incentives drive growth

One of the biggest factors driving business growth in Utah remains the incentives businesses have to move their operations to the state. Incentivizing business creation and sustainable growth is key to Utah’s thriving small business ecosystem. There are now several state-funded programs across the state that businesses can tap into to expand and retain clients. Rural parts of the state can also access grant programs for small businesses.

Utah offers financial incentives for business relocation and expansion. These incentive programs are built with three factors in mind. State leaders want to ensure they are both effective and sustainable. First, the business expansion must be competitive. Second, the incentives must be post-performance. And thirdly, the incentive must be a tax rebate once the jobs have been created and the corporate taxes are paid. Most importantly, these incentives were previously only available to new companies relocating to Utah. But not anymore. Today, they are available to businesses already in Utah to help them grow right here on home soil.

At McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to be part of the stability underpinning Utah’s business community. We’ve worked with many businesses in the state. We’ve even worked on some projects in the Silicon Slopes. And we’re so happy to be doing business in a state that makes it easy for us to do so.

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