When we think of civil engineering, the first thing that comes to mind is the construction of bridges, roads, buildings, and other infrastructure essential to society. However, civil engineering education extends far beyond physical structures. It is a career that prepares students to design and build and equips them with the tools needed to excel in the business world.

High-Level Mathematics and Statistics Training

One of the fundamental pillars of civil engineering is a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics. Civil engineers learn to solve complex problems, analyze data, and make decisions based on precise numbers. These skills are essential not only in engineering but also in the business realm. An entrepreneur who masters mathematics and statistics has a competitive edge, as they can better interpret financial reports, understand market trends, and optimize resources efficiently.

Cost Engineering and Project Evaluation

Civil engineering also includes extensive training in cost engineering and project evaluation. Civil engineers learn to estimate costs, manage budgets, and assess the feasibility of projects from both a technical and economic perspective. These skills are directly transferable to the business world, where managing resources efficiently and evaluating return on investment is crucial for business success.

Structured Thinking and Problem Solving

Civil engineering fosters structured and methodical thinking. Engineers are trained to tackle complex problems systematically, breaking them into manageable components and seeking practical and effective solutions. This skill is invaluable in the business world, where challenges are shared, and the ability to resolve them efficiently can make the difference between success and failure.

Examples of Success and Personal Experience

It is no coincidence that many civil engineers have become successful entrepreneurs. Here are some notable examples from around the world:

• Sir Ove Arup: Danish-British civil engineer and founder of Arup Group, one of the most influential engineering firms globally.

• Sir John Laing: Founder of John Laing Group, a leading construction company in the UK.

• Herbert Hoover was the 31st President of the United States. He started his career as a civil engineer before excelling in politics and business management.

• Tan Sri Lim Chong Keat: Civil engineer from Malaysia who has been instrumental in developing major infrastructure projects.

• Florentino Pérez: President of Real Madrid and the construction firm ACS, one of the largest construction companies worldwide.

• Carlos Slim is one of the wealthiest people in the world, with a business empire that spans telecommunications and construction.

• Mauricio Macri: Former President of Argentina and successful entrepreneur with a notable business career before entering politics.

• Manuel Pellegrini is a renowned football coach who has brought his structured and analytical mindset from civil engineering to sports.

• Álvaro Uribe Vélez: Former President of Colombia and businessman whose civil engineering background influenced his leadership and management skills.

• Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría: Former CEO of Cemex, one of the largest cement companies in the world.

• Lorenzo Mendoza: President of Empresas Polar, Venezuela’s most prominent business conglomerate.

• Santiago Calatrava: Renowned Spanish architect and civil engineer known for his innovative designs worldwide; also a successful businessman in construction and design.

José María Vergara is a Spanish civil engineer and businessman prominent in construction and real estate development.

In my own experience, I have encountered civil engineers who, despite not directly practicing their profession, have found their calling in the business world, investments, and financial markets. These colleagues have leveraged the technical and analytical skills they acquired in university to excel in their new fields, achieving significant success.

Studying civil engineering prepares you to build infrastructure and equips you with the tools necessary to excel in the business world. With a solid foundation in mathematics, statistics, cost engineering, and project evaluation, civil engineers are well-prepared to face and overcome market challenges, becoming excellent professionals and successful entrepreneurs. If you are considering studying civil engineering, remember that this career will open doors in engineering and any field where logic, efficiency, and structured thinking are valued.