Architectural Engineering
Architectural engineers apply science and technology to the real world by designing buildings that enhance our standard of living and improve our quality of life. They do this by combining building systems – structural, electrical, mechanical, lighting, acoustics and fire protection - into an integrated whole. These creative problem solvers are constantly facing the challenges of the future like sustainable building materials and green energy sources. Architectural engineers are trained to use the latest technologies – like computer based building design and analysis software (Revit, eQUEST, RISA-3D, etc), building information modeling (BIM), and advanced sensors & controls – to design, build, and operate the various systems within a building.
There are many different ways you can impact the lives of people as an architectural engineer. You can design structural systems in buildings so they are able to withstand earthquakes and tornadoes. Because of highly engineered acoustical and lighting systems that eliminates dead spots and echoes, everyone in an audience can enjoy a theatre production. You could also design a lighting system for a sports stadium so that players aren’t blinded by the glare yet the HDTV cameras have enough light for quality instant replays, or a mechanical system for a hockey arena so the ice is maintained at just the right temperature.
Possible Career Paths and Specializations (See below for respective professional societies)
Architectural Engineer
Architectural Engineer Manager
Mechanical and Plumbing Systems Engineer
Structural Systems Engineer
Electrical and Lighting Systems Engineer
Fire Protection Systems Engineer
Professional Societies
Architectural Engineering Institute (AEI)
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Structural Engineers Association of Kansas & Missouri (SEAKM)
Structural Engineering Institute (SEI)
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE)
Related architectural engineering links
K-State Department of Architectural Engineering
https://are-cns.k-state.edu/
National Society of Professional Engineers
http://www.nspe.org
Society of Women Engineers
http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org/
American Society for Engineering Education
http://www.asee.org/
K-State's Architectural Engineering program is accredited under the General Criteria by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.