ICE recently commissioned a survey of 2,000 people to find out how the London 2012 construction projects have affected their perceptions of civil engineering.
The results show a growing understanding of what civil engineers do and also an appreciation of profession:
- 53% no longer just associate civil engineering with bridges
- 45% think civil engineering is a ‘respected profession’, alongside jobs such as lawyers and teachers
- 38% would encourage their children to pursue a career in civil engineering
- 34% say that the construction of the Olympic Park has helped them appreciate the importance of civil engineering to society
To find out more about the poll, contact the ICE Media Relations Manager at press.office@ice.org.uk
Civil engineering and the Olympics: what they say
- Sir John Armitt, Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority
“The London 2012 construction project has provided an excellent platform for civil engineers to showcase their talent and expertise to the world.”
- David Beckham, speaking at One Year to Go
“What they've done in such a short space of time is remarkable.”
- ICE President, Richard Coackley
“If anything could excite and inspire young people to pursue civil engineering as a career, it’s the Olympic and Paralympic Games - a true feat of engineering in every sense.”
- Hugh Robertson, Minister for Sport and the Olympics
“Civil engineers were pivotal in successfully delivering the iconic structures on the Olympic Park.”
- The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson
"A once in a lifetime opportunity to show the world the level of skill and ingenuity that our civil engineers possess.”