Chrissy, I think it is wonderful that you are pursuing a career in Architectural Engineering. I also think it is ideal that you have both an accounting and finance background, a combination that is rare to find with someone interested in engineering! I sincerely believe that engineers of the 21st Century should be trained with more than technical subjects including project management, leadership and public policy, among others. I would encourage you to continue to complete your education with Architectural Engineering. I also would suggest you consider looking into the areas of green design and construction and sustainability, which are already considerations every engineer should take into account in today's environment. When you are looking at potential employers, be sure to point out that you have skills that go beyond those learned in architecture and engineering and that you understand the management aspect of the work to be performed, including the financial and accounting side of things. This will be very attractive to future employers. Regarding how you should go about this really depends on what area you wish to work, both from a industry perspective as well as location, including whether you have an interest in international work. However, a good source of information is Engineering News Record which has information on most all design and construction companies in the world and the industries and areas of the world in which they work. Their website is www.ENR.com. I happen to be a weekly blog writer for ENR so I hope you will enjoy mine as well as others who share their experiences. Again, my congratulations to you for having the enthusiasm and passion for engineering. We need more young women in the profession. Pat

Rose, you ask a very good question. The fun thing about civil engineering is that there is a place for everyone!!! Given your inquiry as to family, you might not want to consider a job in construction which would require a significant time away from home to be at the job site. However, as a designer, there are several firms who are looking to employ women and who have flexible work packages that would potentially allow you to work either a reduced work week, and/or do some of your work from home. I had an employee who wanted to raise a family and still wanted to work, but recognized that she would not be up for promotion if she was not working at the firm full time. Understanding her personal desires and trying to blend them with our company requirements, we worked out a package that allowed her to work a 32-hour work week, thus allowing her to still maintain her benefits, and allowed her to work one day of this time at home. She has been with the company since this very day and 20 years later, she had completely raised her family and came back to the firm full time. 3 years ago she was made a Vice President. Thus-anything is possible when employers recognize the value you can bring to them. There is also an option to work with a government entity that typically has either reduced hours available, or at least set hours at a 40-hour work week. This may also allow you the comfort of knowing that you can indeed set the right amount of time aside for your family. There are no right or wrong answers to this question. The solution comes down to the individual and the individual situation. You should discuss your personal and career goals with your potential employers. Together, you can design a work environment that works for everyone. Good luck with your future!! Civil Engineering is a career that helps people and our world could not exist without it. I applaud you on your efforts and desires to pursue civil engineering.