What Happened To The Civil Engineering Internship?

MET • July 31, 2012

Another casualty of the economic downturn: The Civil Engineering Internship.

 

Recently I received a call from a career development coordinator for the engineering department at a respected university. We discussed the difficulty in finding internship placement for her recent civil engineering graduates. In the past, the department saw each graduate easily find civil engineering apprenticeships. In the past two years the university has struggled to find any for their students, let alone jobs post graduation.

 

When I worked as a corporate recruiter, internship experience was an added-value on a resume. Whether it was working with a summer survey crew or assisting in processing plans, the students with experience received favoritism from many hiring managers. These students were perceived as having valuable practical knowledge. One manager said “this student knows what it means to get up and go to work at a civil engineering firm.” He would routinely hire these students over their counterparts who had no relevant apprentice accomplishment.

 

While some civil engineering firms have been hiring, they are holding on bringing in students. What will the effect be on the civil engineering profession 4, 8 or 12 years from now?

The Metzner Group Blog

Thanksgiving Pause

By Carol Metzner • December 18, 2025
As a recruiter, I move fast—searches, decisions, conversations that shape careers. But Thanksgiving reminds me to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the bigger picture. Gratitude isn’t just seasonal; it’s the foundation of meaningful relationships and clearer perspective. Each person I meet reminds me of resilience, ambition, and possibility—and that’s what keeps me inspired. Wishing you time to decompress, reconnect, and carry that spirit into the season ahead.

Networking Is A Two-Way Street!

By Carol Metzner • December 18, 2025
We’ve all seen it: a colleague facing a career crossroads reaches out to every connection they’ve built — asking for introductions, advice, or simply a listening ear. Many of us respond, because we understand the stakes. The fear of unemployment or being in a role that no longer fits is real. But then they land. The pressure lifts. And when others reach out to them for support, the response is… silence. In today’s climate, where so many talented A/E/C executives are exploring new opportunities, navigating leadership transitions, or rethinking their next chapter, let’s remember that networking is a two-way street. ✅ If someone helped you during your search, be the person who helps them now. ✅ If you’re in a stable role, take a moment to respond to those reaching out. ✅ If you’re navigating change, lean on your network — but also nurture it. The consulting engineering sector thrives on collaboration, trust, and long-term partnerships. Let’s extend that same spirit to how we support one another professionally. We rise by lifting each other — not just when we need help, but when others do.