How to become an Architectural Engineer

Architectural Engineering is a branch of engineering that provides an informed knowledge and understanding of structural analysis and thermodynamics required in the technological aspects of planning, designing, construction and improvisation of major building projects. Architectural engineers are employed to provide guidance regarding cost reduction, safety measures and remedies for structural problems as anticipating and detecting issues prior to construction saves time, energy, resources and often even lives. They analyze and integrate the design of environmental systems such as energy conservation, sound and acoustics, fire protection, plumbing, lighting and transportation. It is understandably easy to get confused between architects, architectural engineers and civil engineers.

When addressing Architectural engineering VS architecture, it is claimed that architects focus on the design aspects such as the look and feel of the building, whereas architectural engineers focus on the technicalities by ensuring the design is sturdy, efficient and functional keeping in mind the people and the purpose of occupying it. Basically, architecture is the art of design and architectural engineering is the art and science of engineering. When it comes to Architectural engineering vs civil engineering, it is claimed that even though the two overlap to some degree, there are a few distinctions. While civil engineers work on a broad range of infrastructures such as roads, buildings, bridges, and water systems, architectural engineers work on structural foundations of specific buildings.

Possibly when the two work on the same project, a civil engineer would plan and manage major, multi-structure projects, whereas an architectural engineer would work on emphasizing the logistics of the particular building`s system to maximize safety and functionality by overseeing the lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical work and structural construction. However, both professionals visit construction sites to supervise and ensure work is being completed correctly, safety work measures are being followed. Besides, they also estimate costs and on the basis of projected budgets, create plans and blueprints.

Being one of the key members of building projects, the role of an architectural engineer is multifaceted. Generally, it comprises of the following tasks:

• Manage the repair, maintenance, and replacement of commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings
• Ensure that safety standards and practices are diligently being followed at construction sites.
• Consider fire protection requirement
• Estimate costs and create project budgets
• Plan plumbing and electrical systems
• Provide advice as a consultant regarding noise reduction, building safety and adherence to government building codes and regulations

Architectural engineers are required to cope with a variety of competing goals that are highly important in terms of both financial expenses and public safety issues regularly. To be successful, applicants must have excellent decision-making ability, excellent communication skills, an analytical mind as well as problem-solving talents. Architectural engineering jobs may necessitate on-site management and supervision of a team of workers, technicians, and trainees, which necessitates attributes such as endurance, organisational skills, leadership skills, the ability to adapt to one's immediate environment, and the ability to work well under time constraints. An architectural engineer must also have a strong interest in architecture, physics, and mathematics. Architectural engineering professions need attention to detail, creativity, and the deft application of logical principles, and hopefuls must demonstrate at least some of these characteristics to be considered.

In order to enroll into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear either the JEE Main or NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) which makes the aspirant eligible to apply at any university in India. They are both challenging exams to crack that require hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests and some grant direct admission to meritorious candidates based on the marks in 10+2. Diploma holders can also seek admission through lateral entry. 

Depending on one’s educational background, experience, and skillsets, aspirants may apply for the following architectural engineering jobs:

• Drafter
• Consultant
• Building Inspector
• Technical Architects
• Consulting Engineer
• Professor or Researcher
• Construction Project Manager