The development of the construction engineer: Past progress and future problems

A retrospective view briefly traces graduate-level educational efforts that have resulted in the emergence of the construction engineer as a recognized member of the civil engineering profession. Then, a prospective view identifies four problem areas that relate to construction activities and should be of concern to civil engineers. These include the need for more effective implementation of new techniques, a reduction of disputes and litigation, improved contractual relationships, and professional teamwork that provides better results for the client. An example based on project scheduling and resource leveling is presented to relate and illustrate these problem areas. The example indicates that after 30 years of application of a “new” technique, a widespread lack of full understanding still leads to improper implementation, that this can lead to extended litigation, that contractual relationships create adversarial relationships in which many civil engineers are losing control to protect their clients, and that due to lack of teamwork by civil engineers in different specialities, prevention or mitigation of damages for the benefit of the client and the public is not being achieved.