Fewer interns and graduates enter the heavy civil sector compared to the commercial sector, mainly because of limited exposure during their education.

Students usually choose fields where they feel ready, and heavy civil construction projects are often complicated and daunting without enough basic experience.

To boost student interest in heavy civil construction, construction programs should focus on three main areas: (1) teach heavy civil materials and methods with an emphasis similar to that of commercial construction materials and methods; (2) provide structured internship opportunities with heavy civil contractors, akin to those available in the commercial sector; and (3) include a construction cost estimating course focused on heavy civil work, parallel to existing commercial cost estimating courses.

We are passionate about heavy civil construction, which is why we created the Interactive Webbook on Heavy Civil Construction Materials and Methods—the first textbook in decades to directly address the shortage of resources that introduce students to the materials and methods of heavy civil construction.

By adopting this webbook, construction programs show a clear understanding of the first solution highlighted above and genuinely commit to solving it.

The second solution—expanding heavy civil internships—can be easily implemented by working with heavy civil contractors.

The third option is more difficult because it needs instructors with extensive heavy civil experience to prepare and teach a heavy civil estimating course. However, the industry has plenty of experienced professionals eager to serve as adjuncts and support the sector they are passionate about. All the programs need to do is reach out.