Educators, engineering practitioners, and professional societies stand at the forefront of preparing and shaping the next generation of civil engineering professionals. To attract, grow and retain the next generation of civil engineers, educators, practitioners, and ASCE must work together to reimagine and reshape how the profession is perceived—leading us beyond outdated stereotypes and highlighting civil engineering’s critical role in creating future global communities. Although the core disciplines of civil engineering will remain, several important steps are needed to shift the image of civil engineers from hard hats and bridges to innovators and entrepreneurs, and demonstrate that civil engineers are already change-makers and sustainability leaders, deeply connected to emerging technologies including generative AI, digital twins, robotics, climate tech, smart infrastructure, and driverless ground and aerial transportation. By adapting how we teach, promote and communicate civil engineering, we can attract the passionate and tech-savvy talent needed to build a better future.
This session, inspired by ASCE’s Future World Vision, will explore how evolving technologies, societal expectations, and student perceptions are reshaping the future engineering workforce. Participants will delve into how educators can align curricula with emerging industry needs and how practitioners can bridge the gap between academic preparation and real-world expectations. The discussion will address strategies for attracting a deeper talent pipeline, fostering meaningful career awareness early on, and adapting recruitment approaches to meet the values of tomorrow’s engineers. Join us for a forward-focused dialogue on how we can collaboratively respond to workforce challenges—transforming perception into reality.
