Changing Responsibilities of the Professional Engineer in Public Works

Public works as a subject covers planning, well as construction. Professional engineers in public works must broaden their base of knowledge to participate in complex social decisions. Value engineering and innovation are a key to meeting today's demands. Waste, pollution, and concern for the environment are growing public problems. For the engineer to continue work and deal successfully with critics, leadership and communication are vital. Motivation of skilled people to be creative and to innovate is a high priority need. Value engineering practice to establish goals and to reward results is a sound policy in public works. The news media, legislators, voters organizations, and other sectors of society are becoming an increasing force in the development of public works programs.