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Civil Engineering Career
Exploration
Life Orientation - Grade 11
Research and Investigation
Project
Name: Isaka Mthombeni
Class: 11KD (OJ)
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Contents
1. Introduction PAGE 3
2. Section A: Career Choice PAGE 4
3. Section B: Interview Report PAGE 5-10
4. Section C: Evaluation PAGE 11
5. Conclusion PAGE 12
6. Bibliography PAGE 13
7. Job Shadowing Evidence PAGE14
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Introduction
Choosing a career path is one of the most crucial decisions a young
person must make. It defines not only future income, but daily
responsibilities, job satisfaction, and even lifestyle. This research
project is designed to help students explore a career that aligns with
their interests, values, and abilities. In my case, civil engineering has
always intrigued me. The idea of building structures that last
generations, contributing to infrastructure development, and solving
real-world problems has captured my imagination.
This project gave me a chance to delve deeper into the world of civil
engineering—not just through online searches or brochures, but by
speaking to a real professional in the field. I conducted an interview
and arranged a job-shadowing session to fully understand what it
takes to become a civil engineer. Through this exploration, I gained
insights into the everyday tasks, challenges, and rewards that come
with the profession. I also took time to reflect on whether this path
suits my own personal skills, interests, and values.
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Section A: Career Choice
I am interested in pursuing a career in civil engineering. My
fascination with construction, infrastructure, and problem-solving has
led me to explore this field. I am particularly drawn to how civil
engineers shape the world we live in—from bridges and highways to
dams and buildings. Their work ensures public safety, supports
economic development, and influences the environment. I believe
this career will allow me to apply my interests in mathematics and
design while making a tangible impact on society.
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Section B: Interview Report
Name of Interviewee: Mr. Thomas Dube
Contact Details: Phone/Email Hidden for Privacy
Date of Interview: 22 July 2025
Place of Interview: Zulu & Dube Civil Engineering Firm
Q: What inspired you to become a civil
engineer?
A: From a young age, I was always interested in how things were
built. I remember driving with my family on long road trips across the
country, and I’d stare at the bridges and dams, thinking about the
effort and planning that went into them. Then, during high school, I
had an incredible teacher who took us to a few construction sites. I
was amazed by how engineers and workers collaborated to build
something that would last decades. That’s when I knew I wanted to
be part of that, building the structures that shape our communities
and improving infrastructure, especially in places that need it most.
Q: What does a typical day look like in
your profession?
A: A typical day for me usually starts early around 7 AM. I check
emails, review project updates, and then get ready for site visits or
meetings with the project team. Depending on where I am in the
project, I might spend a lot of time reviewing plans, doing structural
analysis, or meeting with clients and contractors. If I’m on a
construction site, I’m checking the progress, ensuring safety
standards are met, and solving any issues that pop up, be it material
delays, design tweaks, or technical challenges. And of course,
there’s always some paperwork and admin to get through.
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Q: What are some challenges that come with
this profession?
A: Man, there are plenty of challenges. One of the biggest is the
unpredictability of construction projects. We often have to deal with
weather delays, unexpected geological conditions, or even labour
strikes (especially in South Africa). Managing budgets and timelines
can be tricky, too, especially when you’re dealing with multiple
contractors and suppliers. Plus, the pressure to get projects done on
time while meeting all safety and environmental regulations is
always there. But, like anything, it’s part of the job.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your
job?
A: The most rewarding part for me is seeing a project come to life.
You might spend months or even years working on plans and
designs, but when it’s finally built, it’s incredible to see it in use by
people. For instance, when I worked on a bridge in the Eastern
Cape, I remember seeing people crossing it, and knowing that I had
a hand in improving their daily commute, that’s the kind of thing that
sticks with you. It’s about leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Q: What skills are most important in civil
engineering?
A: Definitely a combination of technical and soft skills. On the
technical side, you need a solid understanding of materials,
structural analysis, and design principles. You also need to be
familiar with software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and project
management tools. But on top of that, you need strong problem-
solving abilities, because, let me tell you, things go wrong on a site,
and you’ve got to think on your feet. Communication is crucial, too.
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Whether you’re dealing with clients, contractors, or other engineers,
clear and effective communication makes all the difference. Lastly,
attention to detail is key, if you miss something small, it can turn into
a big problem down the line.
Q: What type of education or training is
required?
A: You need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from a
recognized university, and in South Africa, most of us go to
institutions like the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch, or the
University of Pretoria. Once you’ve got your degree, you’ll need to
do some practical training under the supervision of a registered
professional engineer. After that, you can apply for your professional
registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
Some engineers pursue further studies or specializations, especially
if they want to work in fields like structural or environmental
engineering. In a university like Wits to pursue a Civil Engineering
degree at Wits University, you need an APS score of 42 or higher, a
minimum Level 5 in English (Home Language or First Additional
Language), Mathematics, and Physical Sciences.
Q: What software or tools do you commonly
use?
A: We use a lot of software for both design and management. For
design, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit are my go-to programs. We
also use SAP2000 or ETABS for structural analysis. For project
management, I rely on Primavera or Microsoft Project. And, of
course, we can’t forget about GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
for mapping and environmental analysis. On site, we use things like
drones for surveying, and for managing construction logistics, mobile
apps are becoming more popular.
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Q: What is the work environment like?
A: The work environment is a mix of office and fieldwork, and it can
vary depending on the stage of the project. In the office, it’s a lot of
design work, meetings, and coordination. But when you’re out on a
site, it’s hands-on. South African construction sites can be
challenging due to harsh weather conditions such as heat, rain and
sometimes less-than-ideal site conditions like poor soil quality. But
there's something about the camaraderie you feel on a construction
site, and it's rewarding to see the work progressing.
Q: What advice would you give someone
interested in this career?
A: My advice would be to never stop learning. Civil engineering is
always evolving—new materials, technologies, and methods are
constantly being developed, so staying updated is crucial. Try to get
as much practical experience as you can, especially during
internships or site visits. Don't be afraid to ask questions, either. The
more experience you have working on real-world projects, the better.
And finally, build strong communication and leadership skills—
engineering is a team effort, and it’s just as much about managing
people as it is about managing projects.
Q: How do civil engineers contribute to
society?
A: Civil engineers are the backbone of infrastructure—without us,
cities wouldn’t be able to grow or function. Whether it’s designing
roads that connect rural communities, building schools and
hospitals, or ensuring that urban areas have proper drainage
systems, our work impacts everyday life. In South Africa, where
there are still many areas that need development, we play a key role
in addressing the challenges of access to clean water, efficient
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public transport, and sustainable energy. The work we do now sets
the stage for future generations.
Q: How does South Africa's unique climate
affect civil engineering?
The South African climate, ranging from arid regions in the West to
subtropical areas in the East, definitely affects the materials and
designs we use. For example, in the Northern Cape, we often deal
with extreme temperatures, so we have to make sure materials can
withstand heat and sun exposure. In areas like Durban, with high
humidity and rainfall, drainage and corrosion-resistant materials are
key to prolonging the lifespan of infrastructure. The climate also
dictates how we plan for water management, especially with
droughts being a recurring issue in some provinces.
Q: What are some of the most
exciting projects you’ve worked on?
One of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on was the
construction of a bridge near the Western Cape’s coastline. The
location was tricky due to the rocky terrain, and we had to factor in
environmental concerns to protect the local marine life. It was a
challenging but rewarding project because the design had to adapt
to the landscape, and the final result significantly improved road
safety and connectivity in that area.
Q: How do you ensure safety on
construction sites?
Safety is non-negotiable on a construction site. I always make sure
there’s a clear safety plan in place and that all workers are trained
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on how to handle potential hazards. PPE (personal protective
equipment) is a must, and I constantly monitor site conditions to
ensure that any risks—whether they be from machinery or the
environment—are addressed immediately. We also do regular safety
audits and encourage a culture of reporting any unsafe practices.
Q: How do you balance sustainability
with development?
Sustainability is a huge consideration in every project I work on. In
South Africa, where we’re facing water shortages and environmental
concerns, it’s especially important to integrate eco-friendly solutions.
Whether it’s using locally sourced materials, incorporating renewable
energy sources into buildings, or designing for water conservation, I
always try to find ways to minimize environmental impact. It’s about
striking the right balance between meeting the needs of today and
not compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
Q: What role do civil engineers play in
disaster relief and recovery?
Civil engineers are crucial in disaster relief efforts. After events like
floods, droughts, or fires, we’re called in to assess damage, repair
infrastructure, and help with rebuilding. In South Africa, we’ve had to
rebuild roads, bridges, and houses after heavy rains and floods in
places like KwaZulu-Natal. We also have a role in planning for future
resilience—designing structures that can better withstand disasters,
whether it’s reinforcing dams to prevent overflow or designing flood-
resistant roads.
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Section C: Evaluation
After conducting this research and interviewing a civil engineer, I feel
more confident that this is a career path that suits me. I enjoy math
and science and often find myself thinking about how things are built
and maintained. I value working in teams, solving complex
problems, and contributing to real-world solutions—all of which are
key aspects of civil engineering.
Additionally, I am a curious and practical learner who enjoys both
creative and technical challenges. From what I’ve learned, civil
engineering offers just that. It also offers a sense of accomplishment
that comes with building something physical and lasting. This
profession aligns well with my personality, interests, and skills.
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Conclusion
This research project has been a valuable journey into the world of
civil engineering. I’ve learned that civil engineers play a fundamental
role in building and maintaining infrastructure that supports society.
They face numerous challenges, from tight deadlines to safety risks,
but their work is also incredibly rewarding and impactful.
By job-shadowing a professional and conducting an interview, I
gained firsthand knowledge of what it takes to thrive in this career. I
am excited by the dynamic work environment, the opportunity to
innovate, and the responsibility of creating safe, sustainable
structures. I now have a clearer understanding of the path I want to
follow and am more motivated to pursue my dream of becoming a
civil engineer.
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Bibliography
1. https://www.engineering.org.za
2. Interview with Mr. Thomas Dube, 22 July 2025
3. https://www.civilengineeringcareers.com
4. https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/ebe/civil-
engineering/
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Job Shadowing Evidence
Photos taken during the job-shadowing session at Zulu & Dube Civil
Engineering Firm.
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