In this video, Virginia Baygents emphasizes that students interested in engineering and infrastructure should focus on building a strong technical foundation while staying open to different career paths within the field. She highlights that infrastructure is a broad industry—covering areas like transportation, construction, and environmental systems—so gaining exposure through internships, coursework, and hands-on experiences is essential. She also encourages students to be curious and proactive in learning, as real-world problem-solving is a major part of engineering careers.
Baygents also stresses the importance of communication and relationship-building skills alongside technical expertise. She explains that engineers often work in teams and must collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and other professionals, making soft skills just as critical as technical knowledge. Networking, seeking mentorship, and connecting with alumni are key strategies she recommends for career growth. Overall, her advice centers on being adaptable, continuously learning, and taking initiative to explore opportunities within the evolving engineering and infrastructure landscape.
