Structural engineeringis a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of public works such as bridges, tunnels, transportation routes, water treatment facilities, and government buildings. Structural engineers specialize in particular building materials such as concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and alloys. They are responsible for manifesting the construction ideas of executive directors, policy makers, and public servants. Structural engineers analyze the structural integrity of infrastructure plans and how these developments will affect surrounding areas.

They also inspect existing buildings to determine their structural integrity and safety concerns. They design, verify, and certify structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. The role of a structural engineer today involves a meaningful understanding of static and dynamic loads and the structures that are available to withstand them. They use this knowledge to develop infrastructure that fosters clean and safe communities.

Structural engineers also analyze impact forces and load paths for high-rise buildings. The Institution of Structural Engineers (iStructe) was founded as the Concrete Institute in 1908 and renamed in 1922. Structural engineers learn complex and simple ways to design the structures they intend to work with in college or at work. If a case goes to trial, they may be asked to take the stand as an expert witness. Some of the professionals of recent days in this field are known, although often not as well as the structures they designed. Structural engineers design buildings to last fifty years and bridges for more than a century, so their structures are used and enjoyed by thousands or even millions of people.