Whether by looking at historical engineering disasters for what to avoid, or by studying feats of innovative engineering successes, it is clear that as engineers, we have much to gain from the knowledge of our predecessors, whether professional or personal. Knowledge sourced from our elders, colleagues, and sometimes even subordinates can help us sharpen our practice and creatively apply alternate methods to our work that we may not have otherwise considered.

As we move forward in our careers, certain pieces of advice often stick out in our memory as being especially impactful. We have asked several accomplished Professional Engineers to share some of theirs, and we encourage you to also share any advice given to you over your career that you carried with you. This is an opportunity to create a dialogue where we can look back on our growth and strengthen our resolve for forward movement.

The best piece of advice when I started my first job as a high school student over 40 years ago was “never be idle.” When you finish an assigned job ask for more to do, or better yet, when you find something that needs doing — do it. Even if it is just sweeping the floor.
One good piece of advice I received early in life is, “There is no free lunch.” There is always a price to be paid, one way or another. That price may be worth it — but getting something for nothing is a very rare find.
I would probably say that it was both advice and influence. My father always said that I was capable of doing anything if I was willing to work for it. It is significant when you have someone you respect that believes in your abilities. Women engineers were not common in the early 80s. When you have a strong, positive influence, you can work through challenges and overcome them.

The best advice that I ever received came first from a college classmate. He suggested that I apply to the graduate school at Rice University (tuition was free at the time). After I was accepted, the advice was reinforced from my best friend’s mother. She told me, when I was doubtful about accepting the offer to go to Rice, that I really needed to do it. The master’s degree led to experiences that I could never have had without it. I got to associate with people who were among the top experts in their fields. I would let young people know that if you get accepted at a top tier university, go and never look back. It will be hard work, but it is worth it.

Tell your story

What kind of advice have you been given that inspired your development as a professional? Feel free to share your thoughts.