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Practical Design: A Supplement
to Academics
A series of articles published in Concrete International focuses
on bridging the gap between academics and the design workplace. According
to the authors, Lorenz and Trygestad:
 “In
an ideal world, design firms could expect new graduates to be productive
from day one. In reality, many new graduates have had exposure to only
a few structural design courses. In fact, some may take only an introductory
course that combines structural steel and reinforced concrete design.
Many won’t take advanced design courses and, thus, may be unfamiliar
with terms such as “two-way slab,” “pan-and-joist,”
or “lateral design.” Those who do take advanced coursework
may have been introduced to modern structural design software. Although
software can be a great tool for conducting case studies in order to develop
a better understanding of system behavior, it also can create additional
challenges for instructors. In particular, software has limited value
if the student learns only to be proficient using it, without necessarily
gaining a basic understanding of the theory behind the computer code.
Without that understanding, “Garbage In, Garbage Out” (GIGO)
applies all too well.
 The
new engineer requires mentoring. Unfortunately, in the fast-paced world
of design and construction, with the conflicting demands of tight fees
and ever-evolving, complex code requirements, it’s difficult for
seasoned engineers to find the time for mentoring. […] The mentor-apprentice
relationship has no substitute, [but] this series of articles will bridge
a few gaps and help to make the transition from academic life to professional
life a little smoother.”
The following are reprints in PDF format of articles by Emily B. Lorenz,
Engineering Editor for Concrete International and Amy Reineke
Trygestad, Central US Regional Structural Engineer for the Portland Cement
Association (PCA):
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