WCA Alumni, Matt Brewer, back on campus for the day!

Matt Brewer (’04) graciously joined us on campus this week to speak with some of our high school students about what it takes to have a career as an Engineer. Geneva Collins tells us about the experience here…

Our physics class went in a different direction on Tuesday when we combined classes with the BC Calculus students to hear from WCA graduate and Civil Engineer, Matt Brewer (‘04). “Engineering is using math and science to solve problems,” he began as he told us about what it took to become an engineer and what he does now. An NC State alumnus, he related the classes and tests he had to take to first become an EI (Engineering Intern), and then a fully certified engineer. Specifically, Matt Brewer is a Geotechnical Engineer. The jobs he told us about included drilling and taking soil samples everywhere from Murphy to Manteo as an EI. Engineers have three duties, he told us: public safety, client safety, and personal safety. Whatever you are building as an engineer, you are responsible to the public that your product does not hurt them, whether that’s a bridge, a boat, or a bionic arm. As an engineer, you are also responsible to your employer. They will be the ones selling or promoting your work and paying your salary, and they need to know that your work is trustworthy. Lastly, you’re responsible for your own safety. Every decision you make as an engineer affects others, so it’s important that you hold yourself accountable and don’t make mistakes. I learned a lot about what it really means to pursue a career in engineering, and it was cool to hear about such a specialized field.

By Geneva Collins