Eid Ashry

We asked Eid…

I would recommend a career in civil engineering because …

Civil engineering is a diverse and impactful profession that involves designing, planning, and overseeing infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, dams, airports, and buildings.

Civil engineers work on projects that directly affect communities and require specific knowledge, practical experience, and professional qualifications.

Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills are essential.

The demand for civil engineers is expected to remain strong, driven by the need to repair and upgrade aging infrastructure and address environmental concerns. 

What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?

Technical skills are important, but teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration are prized.

Civil engineers collaborate with architects, environmental scientists, urban planners, and stakeholders to complete projects.

Diversity of ideas and expertise creates a vibrant work environment where innovative solutions are born. Civil engineers are the project managers.

Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?

The General Highways Improvements and the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme. 

Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?

In the early stages of my life, I assumed the responsibility of providing for my family.

Initially as a craftsman or labourer, and then embarking on a journey of self-education.

Despite my hard work, I found myself unable to wholly satisfy the needs and aspirations of my family.

Nevertheless, my academic performance remained exceptional, even in the absence of regular attendance, which led to a transition to the field of civil engineering and project management.

This path has profoundly impacted the lives of my family members, ushering in a period of enhanced wellbeing and ensuring a retirement characterised by comfort and financial security.

By diligently charting this course, I’ve not only fulfilled familial obligations but also secured a future brimming with happiness for my loved ones.

What motivated you, or is motivating you, to become professionally qualified?

I had several motivations for becoming a professional civil engineer: 

• career advancement;
• industry recognition;
• personal development; and
• a commitment to ethical and responsible engineering practices.

Based on their career goals and aspirations, each engineer may have a unique combination of these motivations.

The ICE is the place we live.

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?

Achieving professional qualification with the ICE is a recognition of my competence and expertise in the field of civil engineering.

It can enhance my professional standing not only within the UK but globally. It also involves a commitment to continuous professional development (CPD).

Being part of the ICE community provides access to a vast network of professionals in the civil engineering field.

And professional qualification is often a prerequisite for leadership roles within engineering organisations.

What’s the best thing about being professionally qualified with the ICE?

The most appealing aspect of becoming professionally qualified with the ICE is the comprehensive package it offers.

This includes professional recognition, career advancement, global credibility, ongoing learning, networking opportunities, and a sense of contribution to the profession's growth and excellence.

How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified?

The ICE and employers usually work together to support professional qualification seekers.

This requires workplace experience, mentorship, training, networking, and guidance.

Support from employers and professional institutions is essential for preparing civil engineering students for the challenges of professional qualification.

What do you value most about being an ICE member?

As an ICE member, I value the professional recognition, networking chances, ongoing learning, mentoring, contribution to the field, resource access, and sense of being part of a global community.

How has being a member helped your career?

As a member of a professional organisation like the ICE, I can improve my career by:

• meeting new people
• developing my skills
• getting more respect and credibility
• getting access to useful resources
• finding new jobs
• making global connections
• getting involved in my community
• getting help and advice from other members

Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.

Debunking the myth that civil engineering is only about bridges and roads is important.

While bridges and roads are important, civil engineering is very diverse and includes many projects and specialities.

Civil engineering goes beyond infrastructure.

Civil engineers design and supervise buildings, airports, water supply, water treatment, and environmental protection projects.

The field includes geotechnical, structural, transportation, and environmental engineering subfields.

This profession addresses society's complex issues like sustainability, resilience, and innovation.

Beyond bridges and roads, civil engineers improve communities and the environment.

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also …

I'm a civil engineer, but I also help people, build communities, and bring about good change.

I'm committed to coming up with solutions that improve people's lives, safeguard the environment, and support long-term growth, as well as designing buildings and roads.

I’m more than just an engineer: I’m a force for progress and a worker dedicated to making the world a better place.

I'm a dad to kids, a son to parents, and a husband to a wife.

What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego? How long did it take you?

I finished my high school studies while I was a soldier in the armed forces.

Anything else? i.e. personal causes, hobbies

Just supporting people and making my family happy.