Joining the Civil Club: A Step Towards Professional Growth

Joining the Civil Club: A Step Towards Professional Growth

After my induction at Brunel University, the first thing I did was join the Civil Engineering Club. One of the key pieces of advice we received during the orientation was to get involved in professional groups if we wanted to excel in our careers. They emphasized that being a member of organizations like ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers), CIWEM (Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management), and other civil engineering groups would be highly beneficial for our professional development.

Before even starting at Brunel, I had already taken the initiative to join ICE. I began registering for and attending webinars, and let me tell you—it was one of the best decisions I’ve made! These organizations provide access to a wealth of resources, from webinars to journals, and they help you stay updated with the latest developments in the field. You’ll learn about upcoming infrastructure projects, new technologies, and changes in civil engineering practices. Plus, there's often the chance to visit real-world sites, which is such a valuable experience.

If you're serious about growing in the civil engineering field—or any field, really—joining professional development networks like these is crucial. They give you a head start, connect you with industry professionals, and open up learning opportunities you might not find elsewhere.

So, if you’re aiming to elevate your career, my advice is simple: get involved in these groups early on. You’ll thank yourself later! 

pooja mattapalli