Engineering Student Anna Netecha Prepares for Career Impact

Anna Netecha, a second-year student in the Civil Engineering Technician program at Sault College, is poised to launch her career in civil engineering. Originally from Ukraine, Netecha has resided in Canada since 2023 and is eager to make a significant impact in the field.

In her studies, Netecha emphasizes the practical nature of civil engineering. “It’s a very practical field,” she stated in an interview with *SooToday*. Her hands-on experience includes a summer position with the engineering department of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, where she applied classroom knowledge to real-world tasks such as traffic counts and land surveys.

Working in engineering, she learned that collaboration is crucial. “It’s not one individual. It’s a lot of group work,” Netecha said, highlighting the teamwork that drives successful civil engineering projects.

Education and Opportunities in Civil Engineering

Throughout her program, Netecha and her peers have engaged extensively with technical shops and specialized software, gaining familiarity with power tools, construction materials, and essential health and safety regulations. They have learned the intricacies of project estimation, blueprint interpretation, and the bidding process. “The process can be stressful, but when I complete a project, I feel satisfaction and joy,” she reflected.

According to Marc Pilon, a professor and coordinator of Sault College’s Civil Engineering and Construction programs, there is a significant demand for civil engineering graduates. He noted that students from the program have a strong employment track record, with few seeking work more than a year after graduation. “In general, there is a shortage of individuals in the civil engineering profession across Ontario,” Pilon explained.

A survey by the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers revealed that only 40 percent of engineering graduates work directly in engineering roles after graduation, with many opting for management or public sector positions. This shift has increased the demand for civil engineers in the private sector. Pilon also pointed out that approximately 30 percent of civil engineers are nearing retirement, further exacerbating the demand for new talent.

The recent establishment of a new Major Projects Office by the federal government is expected to create further opportunities for civil engineering graduates throughout Canada.

Career Pathways and Skills Required

For aspiring engineers, multiple educational pathways exist. A two-year college diploma qualifies individuals as civil engineering technicians, while a three-year diploma leads to technologist status. University-level engineering degrees are also available, allowing for a broad range of professional opportunities. Pilon noted that while all disciplines operate under the civil engineering umbrella, the focus of work often varies based on educational background.

Technicians and technologists typically engage in fieldwork, conducting land surveys, inspections, and material testing, while graduates with engineering degrees focus more on design calculations, contract specifications, and project management. Pilon encourages students who enjoy hands-on learning to start at the college level and advance their education as desired.

In terms of essential skills, Pilon emphasizes the importance of mathematics and science, but he also highlights problem-solving abilities and adaptability as crucial traits for success in engineering. “The classroom is the tip of the iceberg; the real training begins on the job,” he noted, stressing the need for graduates to be versatile and knowledgeable about industry codes and standards.

Graduates from Sault College have opportunities to work with local engineering firms and public sector entities, including the City of Sault Ste. Marie, PUC Services, and the Ministry of Transportation. Companies such as Tulloch Engineering, Cenlo Engineering, Kresin Engineering, and WSP actively seek Sault College graduates.

As Netecha approaches graduation, she is already pursuing job opportunities with local firms. Her summer experience has equipped her with the confidence she needs to enter the workforce. “I feel this is the right field for me. I feel complete. I enjoy it,” she stated, reflecting her passion and readiness to contribute to the civil engineering landscape.