The Structural Engineering Channel Small vs. Large Structural Engineering Firms: Analyzing the Pros and Cons – Ep 110
Aug 17, 2023
William Doll, a structural engineer at Colliers Engineering & Design, discusses the advantages of working in small firms, including hands-on experience, exposure to a variety of projects, and valuable mentorship. He analyzes the pros and cons of small vs. large structural engineering firms, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with clients and architects. The differences between small and large firms are explored, including face-to-face communication in smaller firms and access to resources in larger firms. Two-way communication in job interviews is also highlighted.
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Early Career in a Small Firm
- William Doll found his first structural engineering job in the New York Times classifieds.
- Starting at a small, five-person firm, he gained broad experience in renovations and diverse materials.
Mentorship Differences
- Mentorship in smaller firms can be limited due to the owner's multiple responsibilities.
- Larger firms can offer more focused mentorship if not pulled away by other tasks.
Project Differences
- Smaller firms often handle smaller, quicker renovation projects due to lower fees needing higher volume.
- Larger firms pursue larger-scale projects with longer durations.