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Job outlook for transportation engineers in the United States
Transportation engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected transportation engineer job growth rate is 7% from 2018-2028.
About 22,100 new jobs for transportation engineers are projected over the next decade.
Transportation engineer salaries have increased 6% for transportation engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 8,404 transportation engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 20,388 active transportation engineer job openings in the US.
The average transportation engineer salary is $68,945.
Are transportation engineer jobs in demand?
Transportation engineer job and salary trends over time
Transportation engineer jobs over time
Transportation engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 8,404 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 8,308 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 8,584 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 8,451 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 8,255 | 0.00% |
Average transportation engineer salary over time
Transportation engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $68,945 | $33.15 | +1.7% |
| 2025 | $67,770 | $32.58 | +0.5% |
| 2024 | $67,443 | $32.42 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $65,987 | $31.72 | +1.5% |
| 2022 | $65,030 | $31.26 | +1.6% |
Transportation engineer jobs by state
Most common states for transportation engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 235 | 34% |
| 2 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 131 | 12% |
| 3 | Alaska | 739,795 | 86 | 12% |
| 4 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 803 | 9% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 502 | 9% |
| 6 | Delaware | 961,939 | 89 | 9% |
| 7 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 71 | 9% |
| 8 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 330 | 8% |
| 9 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 45 | 8% |
| 10 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 549 | 7% |
| 11 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 461 | 7% |
| 12 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 451 | 7% |
| 13 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 127 | 7% |
| 14 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 90 | 7% |
| 15 | Vermont | 623,657 | 41 | 7% |
| 16 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 438 | 6% |
| 17 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 174 | 6% |
| 18 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 172 | 6% |
| 19 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 102 | 6% |
| 20 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 48 | 6% |
Most common cities for transportation engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lansing | 10 | 9% | $61,325 |
| 2 | Ames | 4 | 6% | $63,967 |
| 3 | Loveland | 3 | 4% | $70,170 |
| 4 | Boston | 7 | 1% | $76,178 |
| 5 | Denver | 7 | 1% | $70,189 |
| 6 | Anchorage | 4 | 1% | $70,297 |
| 7 | Baltimore | 4 | 1% | $62,674 |
| 8 | Orlando | 4 | 1% | $64,218 |
| 9 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $60,257 |
| 10 | Colorado Springs | 3 | 1% | $70,270 |
| 11 | Des Moines | 2 | 1% | $63,926 |
| 12 | Fort Lauderdale | 2 | 1% | $63,080 |
| 13 | Chicago | 4 | 0% | $69,329 |
| 14 | San Francisco | 4 | 0% | $93,890 |
| 15 | Indianapolis | 3 | 0% | $63,045 |
| 16 | Detroit | 2 | 0% | $61,365 |
| 17 | Fresno | 2 | 0% | $91,088 |
| 18 | Jacksonville | 2 | 0% | $65,221 |
Transportation Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of transportation engineer experts
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Northeastern University
University of New Mexico
Ohio University
University of Texas at Tyler
North Dakota State University
Rockhurst University
University of Miami
Fairfield University
George Fox University
Pace University
Alabama A&M University
University of Pittsburgh - Johnstown
Western Carolina University
Oregon State University
Central Connecticut State University
University of Hawaii at Manoa
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Kishor Shrestha Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE, LEED Green Assoc.: Construction engineering is a promising profession to enter now due to various factors. There is a growing demand for public infrastructure projects globally, leading to increased opportunities. Advanced technology like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainable construction practices are transforming and creating new professions. This career offers competitive salaries and the chance to work on diverse projects, making it an attractive choice.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Xiaowei Shi Ph.D.: Start by focusing on building a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of civil engineering. It’s crucial to stay curious and continuously learn, as the field is constantly evolving with new technologies and methodologies. Develop strong problem-solving skills and learn to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams since civil projects often require collaboration across different fields. Networking is key—attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with peers and experts in the field. Finally, be proactive in seeking opportunities that align with your interests and skills, whether in academia, government, or the private sector.
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Xiaowei Shi Ph.D.: To maximize your salary potential, focus on specializing in areas of transportation engineering that are in high demand and where skilled professionals are scarce. Areas like intelligent transportation systems, infrastructure resilience, and traffic management solutions are often well-funded and in need of expert knowledge. Gaining relevant certifications can also make you more competitive and justify a higher salary.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Xiaowei Shi Ph.D.: In transportation engineering, skills in data analysis and software tools will become more necessary as the field integrates with technology. Familiarity with simulation software and traffic modeling tools will be highly valuable. Skills in emerging areas such as smart cities technology, autonomous vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure design will also be in high demand. Additionally, soft skills like communication, project management, and the ability to adapt to changing technologies and regulations will become increasingly crucial for advancing in this field.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Simeng Li Ph.D.: I would like to say the most important is to be proactive and take initiative in your work – show your enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges. Being proactive not only leads to opportunities for advancement, but also helps great mentors to notice you and makes them want to help you navigate through the complexities of the industry because your attitude reminds them of their younger selves. While improving your technical skills, keep polishing your soft skills for collaborating effectively at the present and leading projects in the near future.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Simeng Li Ph.D.: I believe the ability to analyze large datasets and utilize AI for predicative modeling, optimization, and decision-making will be increasingly important. The field of civil engineering is continuously evolving, which also requires all of us stay curious and committed to learning new technologies and adapt to changing conditions. As sustainability becomes more critical, knowledge of green building practices, sustainable materials, and environmental impact assessments will also be vital. Civil engineers will need to integrate sustainable solutions into their projects to meet regulatory standards and societal expectations.
Serena Alexander Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Environmental Policy and EngineeringNortheastern University
Civil Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Serena Alexander Ph.D.: Be determined, patient, and resilient. Civil and environmental engineers often deal with projects that take time and persistent effort; unexpected obstacles might arise at any time. Your ability to deal with uncertainties and address challenges with determination is key to your success. You also must be patient—with your team, clients, contractors, governmental and community organizations. You cannot solve problems without critically listening to what all these players have to say about the project and its challenges. Lastly, if things do not go as planned, your ability to bounce back quickly and develop an effective, alternative plan is important.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Susan Halter PhD, PE, F.ASCE: There is a critical need for infrastructure to address growth and to update older facilities. In addition, the U.S. government has committed significant funding for infrastructure improvement, which will require civil engineers to see it through.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Bhaven Naik PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP: Be prepared to keep learning! You can never stop learning. Also, keep your “doors” open to opportunities in new areas of work and also in new firms. Your first job/position should only be the beginning … stepping stone to the next! Learn to network with your peers and mentors through membership into various organizations (ASCE, ITE, etc.)
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Bhaven Naik PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP: Ability to analyze data … course in statistics will be very helpful. As well, the core classes in Civil Engineering are going to be very beneficial. As much as the new technology and all is quickly taking shape, there is going to be a need for the basics in the coming years.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Bhaven Naik PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP: By being proactive … researching the current job salaries – ASCE have a great site for doing that. By continuous learning … getting licensure (PE, PTOE etc.) and also a Master’s degree (Civil or MBA).
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.
Ronald D. Brazzel Endowed Professor of Civil EngineeringUniversity of Texas at Tyler
Civil Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.: Civil engineering is a solid profession to enter for several reasons. First, there's a growing demand for infrastructure development globally, which creates job opportunities. Second, civil engineering offers a diverse range of career paths, from transportation to environmental engineering, providing flexibility and options for specialization. Additionally, advancements in technology are reshaping the field, offering opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. Lastly, civil engineers play a crucial role in addressing pressing issues like sustainability and resilience, making it a meaningful career choice for those who want to make a positive impact on society and the environment.
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.: Civil engineers handle a wide range of tasks daily, such as designing infrastructure, managing construction projects, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Someone entering the field might start with more hands-on work like site inspections, drafting plans, or assisting senior engineers in project management. Over time, they'll likely take on more responsibilities and eventually lead projects themselves.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.: People often appreciate the variety of projects and the opportunity to solve real-world problems that come with being a civil engineer. Additionally, seeing tangible results, such as completed infrastructure projects, can be rewarding. However, challenges like dealing with bureaucratic processes, long hours during project deadlines, and the potential for work to be affected by external factors like weather or funding constraints can be sources of frustration. Overall, satisfaction in the field often depends on individual preferences and the specific work environment.
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mijia Yang: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
John Kevern Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE, FACI, LEED AP: Strive to find a mentor(s) both within your company and outside of your company whose career path you would like to emulate. Become involved in a related professional organization. The American Society of Civil Engineering has professional chapters and younger member groups within the chapter. Participating in these groups helps to build a professional network and find mentors.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE: The Civil Engineering profession is different then many professions as there are many sub-
disciplines to enter such as structures, environmental, water resources, land development, ports
and harbors, water and wastewater treatment, solid waste management, geotechnical (dams,
levees, foundations), transportation (light rail, heavy rail, airports, roads, multi-modal, etc.),
traffic, construction and others. Many civil engineers will change their sub-disciplines as their
interests change and the "market" changes. For example, there was no "Superfund" and
environmental clean-up in the early 1980s. This created the environmental mitigation sub-
discipline. So civil engineers do not have to remain stagnant.
Civil engineers can work in an office or be outdoors working in construction or a combination of
both. That is attractive. It is also an occupation where you serve the public and there are great
opportunities to using their creative skill to improve society and the environment with their
projects. Our projects are now emphasizing sustainability, which is attracting a lot of young
people into the profession.
I don't know anyone that dislikes civil engineering. I have been practicing for 60 years and enjoy
it. I still teach full time and take on a wide variety of consulting projects in the water, wastewater
and recycled water areas. If an individual does not like a particular subdiscipline, they can
change. Our education, mandated by our accrediting agency ABET, requires graduates to be
proficient in a minimum of 4 sub-disciplines; so graduates have the basic skills if they want to
change. Many, as they advance in their careers, start their own civil engineering consulting
company - work for themselves, or construction and land development companies. There are
many of these opportunities.
It is also a profession where you can branch out of civil engineering. Several of our graduates
have gone into law (patent, environmental, construction); we have had a few employed by the
large financial corporations like Ernst and Young.
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE: Infrastructure is on the minds of governments and funding agencies have supported
infrastructure. The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed in November 2021,
authorized $1.2 trillion dollars for a variety of infrastructure projects.
From: https://home.treasury.gov/news/featured-stories/infrastructure-investment-in-the-united-states
Civil engineers are involved in most if not all of these types of projects. So the job market for
civil engineers for the near term is excellent.
Afifa Mushtaque in an article published 03102024 entitled "20 Highest Paying Countries for Civil
Engineers" https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/20-highest-paying-countries-for-civil-engineers-
1271941/, stated the global civil engineering market is looking for major growth as $13.7 trillion
dollars is expected by 2030 and forecasts a compound annual growth rate of nearly 6% from
2023 to 2030.
Civil engineering has generally always been a good field for jobs. Civil engineering jobs tend to
follow the housing market so it is not all roses. There was a significant reduction in employment
for civil engineers, along with many others in the early 1980s and recently in the recession in
2010 or so. But the recovery has been substantial and continuing as stated above.
We are blessed with an influx of well prepared, young graduates with skills in the latest
technology replacing retiring civil engineers. Our typical class here at Loyola Marymount
University (LMU) typically has 30 to 40% women. It is a great profession for women and work
force is quite diverse.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE: It depends somewhat on the career path: private engineering consulting company, private
industry as facilities engineer, construction, education, or public sector.
If you work in construction you are on the job site typically, although you may be working in the
office preparing estimates and bids for the next potential project. If they are on the job site, they
are monitoring the construction activities, answering questions from subcontractors and material
suppliers, coordinating work etc. If you are working for an agency or consultant, you are
observing the construction, interpretating the plans, answering questions from the general
contractor, ensuring the construction meets the requirements of the plans and specifications as
the owner's on-site representative, and documenting job site activities in the event of a claim.
If you work for a consulting engineering firm, as an entry level engineer, you will be given
assignments to develop layouts and plans using computer drawing programs, making
calculations, reviewing documents submitted by contractors for equipment used on a project
under construction, performing computer modeling of structures or water systems, or highway
systems. As you gain more experience you will be mentoring entry level engineers in addition to
doing more advanced design work eventually moving into project, department, and office
management. At that stage you are doing more management and less engineering. But your job
moves to developing clients and securing "new" work. The work can be fast paced and you are
expected to be a self-starter and always learning. There are usually no formal training
programs, though many larger companies provide formal training for managers. Promotions are
"ad hoc" depending on an individual's skills.
Working for a public agency is not too much different. Promotions are done through exams and
formal interviews for open positions. Also the form of communication, particularly with the
"outside" is very formal through "chain of command." It can be frustrating at times. Many
agencies have formal rotational training programs for entry level staff.
Esber Andiroglu PhD, PE, LEED AP
Associate Professor of Practice, Dept. of Civil & Architectural Engineering, Director of Construction Management ProgramsUniversity of Miami
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Esber Andiroglu PhD, PE, LEED AP: Interdisciplinary and transformative design and construction approaches; integration of emerging technological innovations into practice; integration of software tools into everyday problem solving; solid knowledge about smart systems and AI applications; good understanding and ability to use data analytics
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Esber Andiroglu PhD, PE, LEED AP: Keep an open mind and think interdisciplinary; reflect back on knowledge you gained during academic years when investigating problems for applied solutions. You will continue to learn and grow with every project you undertake; make best of it. Participate in relevant societies and industry focused seminars, conferences, etc. as opportunities arise.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Transportation Engineers in the next 3-5 years?
Dr. Harvey Hoffman: The significant fields in electrical engineering include electronics, microelectronics, signal processing, power, telecommunications, instrumentation, medical devices, imaging, automotive, Internet of Things, information technology, manufacturing, and transportation.
Electrical engineers are in a unique position to influence the climate change landscape, from solar power to creating small, inexpensive and efficient devices to light the world. Electrical engineers are exploring ways to convert energy from natural sources to the grid, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In every field, nanotechnology is being used for innovations. The universe of technology blending will continue to integrate engineering, science, and medicine. Bionic devices will become commonplace. Enormous challenges and opportunities exist. Disruptive fusion technologies will change business and society in unimaginable ways.
Ben Giudice Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Civil EngineeringGeorge Fox University
Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering
What skills will help Transportation Engineers earn the most?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: Top earners in civil engineering are those that can effectively manage projects and people. At the early stages of the career, gaining project experience is vital, and the quicker one can demonstrate the ability to manage projects, the quicker earnings should rise. Project management involves understanding scope and client requirements, but also tracking resources and schedules, and having the intuition and experience to plan and intervene effectively when and where it is needed.
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: Civil engineers collect and organize data - this could be traffic counts, survey data including elevations, distances, and locations of natural and manmade objects, water quality data, soil characteristics, historical precipitation data - then use that data to design infrastructure or improvements to existing infrastructure to improve public safety, public health, support the economy, provide housing, and so forth. This design can be in the form of performing calculations, developing spreadsheets, developing CAD drawings, using modeling software, and following established codes and standards. Sometimes experiments or pilot projects and studies are designed and conducted. During construction, engineers ensure that the construction is following their specifications. Entry-level civil engineers often work on drawings, data collection and compilation, construction inspection, and in general support more experienced engineers with whatever they need assistance with. As they grow in experience, they take more responsibility in leading projects including the decision making and design.
What Transportation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: If you like working with people and serving your community, being a civil engineer can be very rewarding. You can also contribute to a healthier environment by developing more environmentally friendly designs. There is a wide variety of different kinds of work that civil engineers do, as it is a very broad discipline. Because of this, it is likely that something within civil engineering will excite and interest you. I haven't known anyone who was a civil engineer that disliked it! Compared with other engineering disciplines, the pay is not quite as high on average, but there are generally more opportunities available on a more consistent basis, and there are jobs available everywhere in the world nearly all the time.
What will help Transportation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: There is a huge demand for civil engineers across the nation. All of the junior civil engineering students at George Fox University this year had internships for the summer lined up by the end of March. Every senior either had a job offer signed by the end of March, or had multiple offers they were still weighing. The need for civil engineers will never go away, as society will always need qualified civil engineers to support all aspects of civilization. You can also work nearly anywhere in the world, as practically wherever there are people, there is a need for civil engineering.
James Albrecht
Professor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security, retired NYPD Captain/Commanding OfficerPace University
Criminal Justice and Homeland Security Department
What skills stand out on Transportation Engineer resumes?
James Albrecht: Obviously, civil engineers have to possess a comprehensive and advanced understanding of architecture, physics, mathematics, engineering, and drafting skills, but 9-11 and even climate change have added other concerns to the field of civil engineering. Engineers now have to consider the need for safeguarding against terrorist events, natural disasters, rioting, and other man-made occurrences. As such, target hardening options must be considered, particularly when building in highly trafficked urban areas, when designing or renovating government buildings and public infrastructure, in tourist destinations, and in a hurricane, tornado, or other inclement weather prone zones. If one plans to work on projects in these areas or regions, it would be practical and realistic to take courses in critical infrastructure and safeguard national infrastructure offered by the Federal Emergency Management Administration, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and other public-private organizations.
What soft skills should all Transportation Engineers possess?
James Albrecht: Never underestimate having effective "people skills." You must be able to listen, communicate and express yourself in a competent and empathetic manner. Asking questions for more specific insight into project objectives and posing your own questions that delineate target hardening options to clients and potential customers will add the necessary human touch, not only to the field of civil engineering but to any profession.
What skills will help Transportation Engineers earn the most?
James Albrecht: Clearly possessing a thorough and exceptional understanding of the basic skills needed in civil engineering is extremely critical. In addition, by expressing concerns or describing options for target hardening, you will also show your client that you have their safety and welfare in mind. Conducting a historical assessment of weather, sensational incidents, area crime rate, population density, and peak daily usage, and combining that with an evaluation of nearby sites that may be appealing to tourists or that routinely draw large crowds, e.g., nearby subway or bus station, should cause a client to be impressed with your comprehensive understanding and analysis of project-related issues. Undoubtedly, any "people skills" you can bring to the table that highlights your empathetic nature will surely inspire a customer or potential client.
Pooja Preetha Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorAlabama A&M University
Department of Mechanical and Civil Engineering
What soft skills should all Transportation Engineers possess?
Pooja Preetha Ph.D.: I would say communication skills, creativity, the ability to mold yourself and work under pressure, keeping the cool at any condition, a few leadership initiatives, and being fast-paced.
What skills will help Transportation Engineers earn the most?
Pooja Preetha Ph.D.: Good decision making and identify the specific path/job that boosts your earning curve noticeably is the main thing to look at. Besides, good technical training, writing, and added accolades always catalyze the chances to get promoted sooner and earn more.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Transportation Engineers?
Brian L Houston: The immediate impact is a migration of job openings closer to graduation. I believe this arises from the inherent uncertainty due to Covid-related project delays and cancellations. In my observation, it seems full-time jobs for December graduates are diminished, although job openings for May graduates appear to be on pace, albeit slightly delayed from previous years.
I believe the only enduring impact on graduates will be the same as many other professions, that of "work-at-home" models. I think many professions are realizing there are significant savings in overhead by allowing employees to transition to either a partial or complete work-at-home scenario. For design professionals, this is an easy transition, and provides a great opportunity for work/life balancing. For construction professionals, especially those who travel frequently, this seems like a natural progression. The opportunity for companies to reduce overhead by enacting these types of models is almost too tempting to ignore. With the advent of faster, more reliable internet connections, and live-streaming meeting platforms 9such as Zoom), the efficacy of the work-at-home model is even more viable.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Transportation Engineer job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Hugh Jack Ph.D.: The pandemic has created shifting demands in different sectors. Some areas, like transportation, have slowed. Others, like healthcare, are growing quickly. We should expect technical professionals to consider moving between industry sectors.
What's a day at work look like for a Transportation Engineer?
Dr. Hugh Jack Ph.D.: The pandemic has permanently added remote working to professional tools. This will mean that the amount of travel might decrease and the time out of the office might increase. Being able to reduce the need to commute will improve the quality of life.
What experience really stands out on Transportation Engineer resumes?
David Blunck Ph.D.: Students who set themselves apart go above and beyond what is required for courses to apply their engineering understanding. Examples of this include conducting undergraduate research with faculty members, active involvement in students clubs that design and build products (e.g., cars, items for green energy, etc.), internships with engineering companies, where students provide meaningful contributions, or perhaps personal projects that result in designing or building something (e.g., design and create their products). Holding and contributing to significant leadership positions in student clubs can be an excellent way for students to differentiate themselves.
Finally, students who can demonstrate a passion and commitment for a particular aspect of engineering through a common thread of extracurricular engagement will stand out. For example, I recently reviewed the resume of a student who is passionate about the aerospace field. They had been involved in multiple extracurricular aspects of building rockets, had held leadership positions, worked in the profession, and provided specific examples of their impact/contribution. I would gladly hire this person because their passion will elevate colleagues' performance; they have demonstrated a commitment to the field and will have more skills than many of their peers.
How do you envision technology impacting Transportation Engineers in the next 5 years?
David Blunck Ph.D.: The emergence of 3-D printing is revolutionizing the field of mechanical engineering. Engineers can design parts that are much less expensive and have much more outstanding performance. As engineers, we have known for many years how to improve products' performance, but we have been limited by the ability to manufacture components. This barrier is being removed and enabling us to realize things that we only dreamed of creating a few years ago.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Transportation Engineers?
David Blunck Ph.D.: I certainly expect that there to be an enduring impact, for better and worse. I hope that graduates will be better equipped to use technology in communicating and working in teams. I expect graduates to be more resilient and be more adept at working remotely and using engineering tools. This will ultimately enable more distributed teams of engineers to work together across the globe. I also see the pandemic as helping more virtual learning opportunities for graduates (e.g., certificates) and future engineering students (e.g., more online degrees). For worse, I worry that students may not gain hands-on experience that can help design and build products. Moreover, recent graduates may not be as experienced in conducting experiments or collecting data.
Dr. Bin (Brenda) Zhou Ph.D.
ProfessorCentral Connecticut State University
Department of Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Transportation Engineer?
Dr. Bin (Brenda) Zhou Ph.D.: It is going to be difficult to land a dream job this year, and probably next year too. Be open-minded and try different fields, types of jobs, and sizes of firms. Be adaptive to the changing environment; a virtual career fair may sound strange, but it can and will work for those who are prepared. Be proactive; communicate with people in your network (e.g., family, friends, classmates, professors) and let them know that you're looking for a job in "broad" civil engineering.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Transportation Engineer job market given the pandemic?
Panos Prevedouros Ph.D.: Most jobs will be in engineering disciplines needed for infrastructure maintenance, upgrade, and replacement. Also, a lot of new developments have been deferred by the pandemic, so if there is no surprise in the lending rates, development will grow and possibly skyrocket in 2022 and beyond.
Engineering disciplines related to transit will shrink. Transit has lost about 80 percent of its riders and is unlikely to regain many of them for reasons such as depleted municipal budgets, people's desire to avoid dense crowds even after the pandemic ends, and robocars presence in five to ten years.