TCEP 268: How to Maximize Your Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering

In this episode, I talk with Alishia Ballard, M.S.E.M, land development engineer at County of San Diego and an expert in stormwater practices, about how earning a master’s degree in Civil Engineering has been a game-changer for her career, unlocking new opportunities and growth. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Alishia: Could you explain how combining a master's degree in engineering with a degree in management has helped your career, particularly in your current role? What motivated you to pursue your master's degree in engineering management, and how did you manage the challenges of working full-time while completing it? What strategies helped you balance your full-time job with your master's program, and how did the support from your workplace and team dynamics contribute to your success? In what ways did your master's program help you in your current role, particularly with GIS projects and engaging under-represented communities? How does dynamic leadership, which focuses on character development, listening, and fostering a shared vision, differ from traditional leadership, and how have you applied these principles in your work? Implementing leadership changes takes time and patience, often requiring small steps over a long period. Can you share an example of an innovative process you've developed through STEM mentorship that had a significant impact? Can you share an example of an innovative STEM mentorship process you've developed that had a significant impact, such as the Lego STEM camp or GIS training you mentioned? What challenges and successes have you encountered while implementing stormwater low impact development and best management practices for the Regional Water Quality Control Board? What final piece of advice would you give to engineers considering pursuing a master's degree? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Maximize Your Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering: Combining a master's degree in engineering with a management degree enhances leadership and problem-solving skills, leading to innovative solutions and a stronger impact in the current role. Engineers considering a master's degree should ensure they have a flexible work schedule to accommodate their studies, and should seek support and understanding from their supervisors and team. Pursuing a master's degree later in life allows for a more mature approach to education, enhancing better communication with professors and a stronger reliance on team support. Ensuring workplace flexibility during this period is crucial for balancing academic and professional responsibilities effectively. Engineers often struggle with communication due to their analytical mindset, but developing interpersonal skills can transform analytical thoughts into comprehensible messages, enhancing their effectiveness as communicators. This shift is crucial for advancing from a good engineer to a great one. Dynamic leadership goes beyond traditional process-focused management by emphasizing character development, active listening, and cultivating a shared vision among team members. This leadership style incorporates all voices to achieve collective goals, significantly impacting organizational culture and effectiveness. Implementing leadership changes often requires patience and time, as significant improvements typically result from cumulative small steps rather than immediate transformations. This gradual approach can lead to substantial, lasting changes within organizations. A recent Lego STEM camp and GIS training session showcased significant community engagement, drawing in local media personalities and impacting around 30 young com...