How To Become an Architectural and Engineering Manager

Have you always dreamed of overseeing large construction projects? Do you like to work with numbers, create technical plans, and supervise people? If you love all there is to the architecture and engineering industry, then perhaps you've considered becoming an architectural and engineering manager. If you have strong analytical skills, are excellent at communication, are organized, and enjoy math, then chances are you are a good management candidate. First, though, you'll need the right education and experience.

Get a Degree in Engineering or Architecture

The first stepping stone on your path to becoming an architecture and engineering manager is to get a bachelor's degree in one of the two fields. In addition to specifically studying architecture or engineering, you can also study city or regional planning. These majors help you to learn the scientific principles behind the design and construction of buildings or other architectural plans.

Keep in mind that these types of degrees often take longer than four years, and therefore may require more student loans, for students to complete. That doesn't mean it's not worth the time, though. Some schools offer co-op programs as well. Students in these programs spend semesters learning as well as working for companies that help them to gain work experience before they graduate. Expect to take about five years to complete a degree to become a licensed architect, although some city planning degrees only take four. 

Obtain a License

Engineers and architects must have a license to perform their work. If you wish to obtain an engineering license, you'll first need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, and then spend four years working under a licensed engineer. From there, you must pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. Depending on the state you want to work in, you may need to meet additional requirements.

If you want to obtain an architecture license, you'll need to enter the Intern Development Program. This helps you to gain relevant experience with the help of a licensed architect. You'll need to gain 5,600 hours of experience that spans several different types of architecture. Upon completion, you'll need to pass a self-guided test called the Architect Registration Exam. Depending on the state you want to work in, you may need to meet additional requirements. 

Gain More Experience

Once you've obtained your license, you'll need to gain more architecture or engineering experience. While it is possible to reach a management position in as little as two years, it is much more likely that the management positions you're interested in will want at least 5-10 years of experience under your belt first. This helps to ensure that you're familiar with the job and everything that it entails. This could mean working in the private sector, but most likely, you'll decide to work with a manufacturing facility or an architecture firm. You could also work in the public sector by building and maintaining facilities at the local, state, or federal levels. 

Pursue Further Education

Finally, to increase your chances of finding an architect or engineering manager position successfully, consider pursuing further education. Many people who wish to work in the industry go on to earn a master's degree in management. Consider your goals when deciding which graduate-level management program may be best for you. Do you want to take on a position geared toward technical management? Consider technology management. On the other hand, if you want a broader skill set, you can earn a master's degree in business management. Depending on what you choose and whether you go to school part- or full-time, expect earning your master's degree to take 1-4 years. 

All together, working your way to a management position will take 10 or more years. Don't let that discourage you, though. You'll learn a lot and have plenty of earning opportunities along the way. Before you know it, you'll be managing your own team.