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Networking is a key part of any business – no matter the industry – because it can lead to a new job, experience, or business for your firm. Networking tips for young professionals
E ngineers go through rigorous science and math classes while they are in college. They learn all of the technical skills they will need to be successful in their expertise, and many take on internships that allow them to put these skills into practice. The skills that are typically not stressed for engineers are business, communication, and networking.
Corey Fenwick
Networking is a key part of any business, no matter the industry. In the consulting engineering field, networking can lead to a new job, experience, or business for your firm. You never know when a connection will be able to provide you with a project lead or teaming opportunity. Here are 10 networking tips any young consulting engineer can use to succeed: 1) Join a professional organization. The engineering field includes diverse disciplines, and there are equally diverse professional organizations available to provide networking, advocacy, and educational opportunities. Firms will often pay employees’ dues to an organization to keep them professionally engaged. The American Society of Civil Engineers is a great organization that advocates for individuals in the industry, but there are many more specialized organizations that may
speak to your interests or professional or personal background, like ACEC, ASHE, NSPE, NSBE, WTS, SWE, SASE, and more. Attend seminars and conferences offered by these organizations and stay in touch with those you meet at these events. Also consider joining the local chapter of your alumni association to get to know others from your alma mater. Once you are involved, consider taking on a board position for the additional experience and recognition. 2) Attend events. Any given month, there are several industry events going on, such as awards dinners, non-profit benefits, and happy hours. These are a great way to meet people in the industry and those adjacent to it. Keep an eye out for a shared “Events Calendar” your firm keeps, and ask to attend an event that is of interest to you. Many firms end up sponsoring events and are given a
Andrew Chakmakjian
See COREY FENWICK & ANDREW CHAKMAKJIAN, page 10
THE ZWEIG LETTER JUNE 28, 2021, ISSUE 1398
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