<p>I've always envisioned myself as working in a construction company after my Civ Eng degree as a construction/project manager. I'm a pretty good communicator and leader. My organization and work ethic are up there and I do pretty well with multi tasking. I love challenges and don't shy away from responsibility. </p>
<p>I've been told Structural engineering is the way to go and maybe down the road an MBA. I understand a lot of it is also my own initiative and showing I can do the work.</p>
<p>The construction/project manager position can be a very challenging position and many people love doing it. Do realize that much of the “engineering” goes on back in the design office. On site, it is a lot of dealing with trades people (scheduling) and construction problem resolution, with the problems many times being relayed back to the main office and they come up with the proper solution. Certainly a degree in Civ Eng with a concentration in structures will open many doors for you and you can decide which path to take.</p>
<p>IMHO, getting an MBA is not worth the time and effort. Look at the classes you need for that degree. Do you really need a class in international finance to do construction management? You’d be better off picking and choosing a more limited set of classes, taking classes in learning to deal with people, make and keep to schedules, etc. An MBA is really only useful to someone in upper management at a mid-size to large company and then only when you are into that path.</p>
<p>Structural engineering is definitely one of the many doors that can lead you into construction management. It’s certainly more valued if you work for a heavy construction company. You should know that if you work for a general building contractor, it’s likely you will be working on different disciplines in construction throughout your career and probably won’t be limited to the structural side.</p>
<p>It’s probably not worth your own time to think about or research MBA programs at this point. There will be so many factors that you will consider down the road, such as your need to get the degree and whether or not you have the time for it (you’ll likely have to work long hours).</p>