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Roles and responsibilities
A key part of being a structural engineer is ensuring that we are coordinating and collaborating with the other disciplines such as the architects and MEP . Early engagement on complicated schemes can help , and when this isn ’ t the case , you really notice the limit to the value you ’ re able to offer – be that in terms of cost savings or carbon emissions for the end product .
Another responsibility that falls to structural engineers is ensuring that the buildability of any given project is maintained , minimising risks to the client and ensuring that there are no nasty surprises when it gets to site . It ’ s about taking the designs from the architect and ensuring that it can work not just from a structural perspective , but also in terms of cost .
Time and cost are always the biggest challenges for projects . Programmes will naturally be squeezed , which can limit collaboration time , but it ’ s about being honest with clients and telling them what is possible at what cost , and a good client will listen and allow time for the project team to coordinate - you can ’ t be afraid to push back when a client is being unreasonable .
Challenges and opportunities
An area where structural engineers have a huge impact is the net-zero agenda . If given the necessary time on a project , structural engineers have as big an opportunity as any other part of the construction industry to make a real difference on this front . There is a huge range of sustainable replacement products for some of the more carbonintensive materials used in construction , and structural engineers can provide the opportunity to specify them . However , it ’ s the asset owners and developers that have the power to increase quality and sustainability by spending a little more on earlier engagement , so it ’ s about ensuring that you are given as much chance as possible to make an impact .
The planning system is also a significant challenge , and it is providing major issues across the industry , as it squeezes timeframes for projects to be delivered once planning approval is given . While structural engineers aren ’ t directly involved in this , the knock-on effect throughout industry is significant .
Looking to the future
Across the built environment industry , we are facing many unprecedented challenges , from the skills shortage to the race to Net Zero . But these challenges can be overcome if there is a concerted effort to change and adapt perspectives and processes . It ’ s more important than ever that we show the next generation that there is hope and dynamism within the sector .
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