4 emerging trends in civil engineering

How to get civil engineering jobs in Canada

The field of civil engineering is undergoing a transformation, driven by the urgent need for sustainable practices and environmentally friendly solutions. 

If you’re wondering where you can really make a difference, look no further than AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering and project management organization committed to engineering a better future.

Explore civil engineering jobs in Canada at AtkinsRéalis today, where you can enjoy:

• Abundant opportunities: at AtkinsRéalis, we have a diverse range of projects with the opportunity to collaborate globally, offering ample room for growth and development in the field of civil engineering.
• Prominent projects: Ontario, Canada's most populous province, hosts significant ongoing projects like the refurbishment of the Bruce Nuclear generating station.
• Attractive cities: Positioned in Southern Ontario, Ottawa serves as the top Canadian city for civil engineering jobs, with planned infrastructure projects amounting to $1.9 billion, including initiatives such as the Montreal Road revitalization and Strandherd Drive widening. Alongside Toronto and Vancouver, Ottawa presents enticing prospects for both junior and seasoned civil engineering professionals.

Trends in civil engineering

As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change and resource depletion, it becomes increasingly crucial for civil engineers to keep up to date with ever-evolving trends that promise to shape a healthier future for our planet and its people.

Here are four key trends in civil engineering, that are set to steer the industry towards a more sustainable approach to infrastructure development:

Net-Zero energy buildings 

With the growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and energy consumption, the concept of Net-Zero energy buildings has gained significant traction. 

These buildings are designed to produce as much energy as they consume, primarily through the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar panels, geothermal systems, and advanced energy-efficient technologies. 

Canada’s first zero-carbon building is a prime example. According to reports it produces 5% more clean energy than it consumes, which is being added to the Ontario grid.

The benefits of Net-Zero energy buildings extend beyond the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, fostering energy independence and long-term cost savings for building owners and occupants.

Pre-fabrication 

Pre-fabrication, which means assembling parts of a structure offsite and delivering assembled structures to construction sites, is not new but it is seeing a resurgence. 

There are many advantages, including:

• Reduced environmental impact due to less dust, noise, and pollution on-site
• Faster construction times
• Lowered labor costs and reduced manual labor
• Reduced waste on-site
  
  

By optimizing the use of resources and reducing construction time, pre-fabrication techniques contribute to sustainable construction projects, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and improved project efficiency.

Advanced building materials 

In the construction industry, innovation is propelling us toward stronger, longer-lasting, and more affordable materials, like these game-changers for example:

• Graphene: This carbon-based marvel is tougher than steel and boasts a range of applications, from providing lightweight sturdy coatings for weather-resistant buildings to enhancing energy efficiency as a top-notch thermal conductor.

• Bendable Concrete (ECC): Reinforced with polymer-derived fibers, this concrete variant trumps the traditional kind with a smaller carbon footprint and impressive cost-effectiveness.
  
• Engineered Timber: By combining various softwoods, it produces a robust lumber substitute for steel and concrete, slashing emissions and waste in the production process.

Green buildings and sustainability

By prioritizing energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of environmentally friendly materials, green buildings significantly minimize their ecological footprint. 

Incorporating green infrastructure, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, not only mitigates the adverse effects of urbanization but also enhances biodiversity and improves overall air and water quality.

Integrating renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, solar farms, and hydroelectric systems, into the design and construction of buildings and infrastructure is another key strategy for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the impacts of climate change. 

By promoting the use of clean energy, civil engineers can actively contribute to the development of sustainable communities and facilitate the transition towards a more environmentally responsible and resilient energy infrastructure.

Seize your future with Civil Engineering jobs in Canada

At AtkinsRéalis, we recognize the vital role that civil engineers play in shaping a sustainable future. 

We combine the expertise of our talented professionals, data-driven insights, and cutting-edge technology to drive transformative outcomes. 

We invite ambitious civil engineers to consider Canada as the destination of choice for their career, where you can leverage our collaborative and innovative environment to contribute to the advancement of sustainable engineering practices on a global scale. 

Apply for civil engineering jobs today. Join us at AtkinsRéalis and be a part of the movement towards a more sustainable and resilient future.