Every construction project requires a set of deliverables executed according to a timeline. Whether it be a small or large development, construction is a big undertaking.
A professional in Construction Engineering Management (CEM) makes sure that all the activities have been completed up to standard and on schedule. This is very important in a commercial construction project.
What Is Construction Engineering Management?
Overseeing the activities and deliverables according to the schedule might seem to sum up the roles carried out by a Construction Engineering Manager. But, there are many more tasks and details tied to the role.
Engineering mostly involves the design of a project. Construction management facilitates the construction of the development. CEM can be considered a hybrid of the two roles.
The field harnesses both technical and practical knowledge in the application to construction projects. As such, the role serves to connect the design and management of construction projects.
CEM professionals usually have a relevant formal education as well as experience in construction. The role can act in the various spheres within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
At Chad Fisher Construction, our team handles all the engineering and construction of a project. With solid Construction Engineering Management, we ensure that all elements of the design line up with the constructed building. This combined approach minimizes errors and setbacks by ensuring that everything runs smoothly and according to plan.
What Does A Construction Engineering Manager Do?
Construction Engineering Managers play an integral role in the successful completion of construction projects. They may oversee an expansive range of projects throughout their career.
Projects can extend from building construction to water delivery pipe networks or more extensive infrastructure, such as massive transportation links like highways.
If a manager chooses to specialize, they will work to oversee projects that fall within their preferred field.
The most common specializations within CEM are:
- commercial or residential buildings
- HVAC or mechanical design
- electrical systems
- heavy construction such as wastewater systems
- bridge construction
- airport design construction
- aerospace manufacturing construction
- agricultural food processing construction
The Role Of Construction Engineering Management In Projects
Unlike the predominantly behind-the-desk work done by design engineers, Construction Engineering Management entails frequent visits to project sites. This may be to meet with project stakeholders, to view, observe, and inspect the physical site, and to supervise labor and construction.
Project Inspections
A significant part of the role includes inspections of the infrastructure on-site. The Construction Engineer will inspect and compare the project with the design codes and the design specifications.
They will then liaise with the contractors if the infrastructure does not meet the project requirements. This occurs at different stages of the project to ensure that the quality and trajectory of the project and its deliverables are kept up to standard and on track.
At Chad Fisher Construction, our engineers and construction team work together to make this whole process seamless.
Site Survey
Before the start of the construction phase of a project, it’s important to perform a site survey. The aim of this is to identify the environmental and social issues and local laws that apply to the site.
The findings, as well as any legal and admin requirements, are compiled in a report. Once this is taken care of, the project can proceed.
Skills & Expertise
An integral part of the role of a manager is being well-versed and experienced in the matters they work on. This includes being able to oversee entire project phases and communicate with a range of different project stakeholders.
It is vital to be able to discuss and communicate ideas effectively and professionally. That way, the Construction Engineering Manager can keep everyone in the loop and on the right track.
Other skills include the need to be able to cost various aspects of the construction. These include things like:
- Site inspections
- Site clearing and other services (drainage, sewage, elevation leveling)
- Tools
- Materials
- Labor
Construction Engineering Management helps to ensure the right outcome for all site activities. Managers provide supervision of the project and keep within the boundaries of the budget and the project timeframe.
Final Thoughts
Construction projects are big developments, which means that any process that streamlines the project is advantageous. This is especially important when it comes to bridging approaches like that of CEM. This approach brings together the knowledge of the engineering design and the needs for successful construction.
Construction Engineering Management streamlines the communication and ease of work throughout the project. It is therefore essential in the successful undertaking of the construction project.
That’s why, at Chad Fisher Construction, we manage all the planning, architecture, engineering, and construction. We offer an all-in-one construction approach to ensure that every aspect of the project is taken care of.
This Construction Engineering Management approach keeps everyone on the same page and guarantees consistency throughout the project.