What is Structural Engineering and How Does it Work?

Structural engineering is a field of engineering that deals with the analysis and design of structures that bear or withstand loads. It uses a number of relatively simple structural concepts to build complex structural systems, and structural engineers are responsible for making creative and efficient use of funds, structural elements, and materials to achieve these objectives. Structural engineering has been around since humans started building their own structures, and it is based on physical laws and empirical knowledge of the structural performance of different materials and geometries. Structural engineers use many problem-solving skills, from basic mathematics to cutting-edge technology, to ensure that buildings do not fall and that bridges do not collapse.

They also work on the analysis of the most efficient resources and materials to create record-breaking structures, beautiful structures, useful structures, and sometimes just cool structures, from bridges, roller coasters and skyscrapers to hospitals, homes, and public artwork. In the design of structures such as these, structural safety is of the utmost importance (in the UK, dam, nuclear power plant and bridge designs must be signed by a certified engineer). Many experienced engineers with advanced degrees move up to managerial positions or start their own businesses where they can earn even more. The critical skills that a person needs in structural engineering include a thorough understanding of physics and mathematics.

When the step pyramid of Pharaoh Djoser was built by Imhotep, the first engineer in history known by his name, Fortin Augustin built the building himself, saying he didn't need an engineer as he had good knowledge of the construction following a partial collapse of the three-story school that sent neighbors to flee. A nanostructure is an object of intermediate size between molecular and microscopic structures (micron size). In other words, structural engineering is a subset of civil engineering that deals with the design and analysis of buildings and large non-buildable structures to withstand gravity and wind loads, as well as natural disasters. Structural engineers help create these structures by manipulating materials and forms in order to meet functional requirements while ensuring structural safety.