Structural engineers generally establish the geometrical layout and member proportions of structural systems to economically resist the forces induced on the structure throughout its life. Design forces are dependent on the type of structure as well as the geographic location and can result from a variety of sources including gravity, wind, waves, or earthquakes. Structural engineers must be familiar with the behavior and interaction of different materials such as steel, concrete, masonry or wood so that they can proportion and combine the materials to produce innovative solutions to challenging problems. Structural engineers often work with architects, builders, and engineers from other disciplines to organize and supervise the construction of large-scale projects. Structural engineers also analyze the capacity and condition of existing structures, investigate the causes of structural failures, and design retrofits to problematic systems.
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