DCI Engineers is a Diversakore Network Partner

Today, the Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce published a special feature on the recently completed Spokane Convention Center Expansion. Here’s DCI Engineers’ contribution to the package:

Massive Steel Trusses Support Convention Center Roof

Crafting a fine wine takes careful attention to detail – a little errant bacteria or slight fluctuation in temperature can mean the difference between the finest vintage and undrinkable swill. And as any vintner will tell you, controlling those variables starts with the environment in which the wine is made.

*photo provided by Rollston Frangopoulos.

No matter what level of experience you have, most A/E/C firms or companies across the country expect their staff to persistently network, represent the firm, stand out to potential clients, and be remembered when those clients consider your firm for their project. Not all lines of work emphasize this strategy, but in the A/E/C industries the culture of engagement, business networking, and collaboration are paramount in running a competitive firm.

A little self-reflection never hurt anyone. In an industry that speaks a different language than your average civilian (note the blank looks you get when you bring up dead loads, ductility and deflection at a party), it’s worth asking: what does a structural engineer do?

Engineers can be romantics. They can play the role of Cupid more often than not. Sounds too good to be true? Structural and civil engineers are frequently called into action when iconic symbols of love require maintenance or renovation. What would we do if there are no engineers to maintain the Eiffel Tower or rebuild the walkway at Niagara Falls every year? There would be many disappointed couples during Valentine’s Day and anniversaries. Lovers would need to find alternative locations for that first kiss together, a marriage proposal, or a memorable wedding.

The Next Generation of Engineers - The Value of STEM Education to the AEC Industry

You’d think an engineer who spends his days thinking in terms of thousands of pounds, dozens of stories and millions of dollars would find the prospect of designing the structural support for a set of dinosaur bones a bit blasé. But small doesn’t always mean simple; engineering for exhibit work offers a unique set of challenges that sometimes require unconventional design solutions.

One of the first kids’ books I remember was Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel. The story is about an equipment operator and his steam shovel named Mary Anne who are driven away from the city to find work in a smaller town. When they reached Popperville, the pair promised the townspeople they could “dig a cellar in one day” for the new town hall.