Individuals who complete a master's degree in civil engineering may win prestigious awards

Individuals who complete a master's degree in civil engineering may win prestigious awards

Students may find that an online master's degree in civil engineering could have many benefits. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for these professionals will increase by 24 percent over the next decade. Some individuals who have pursued this type of higher education are also receiving distinguished awards.

Linda Bridwell, director of environmental compliance at Kentucky American Water (KAW), a company that provides water utility services, was recently presented with this year's Robert M. Gillim Professional Recognition Award for her contributions to the civil engineering field.

Bridwell earned master's degrees in business administration and civil engineering. Since joining KAW, she had worked on various projects to address the low water supply in Kentucky. One of these included the construction of a 31-mile pipeline that now runs through four counties in that state. Bridwell had to make adjustments to work around areas of environmental importance.

Individuals may find that obtaining a master's degree in civil engineering can not only help them win awards, it could also help them to earn them a high salary. These professionals can work in consulting, or with government, construction or transportation agencies, and have the potential to make more than $74,000 per year.

By Stephanie Hughes