Literary Review of Global Engineering and Construction

Engineering on a global scale has expanded rapidly with the growing use of technology, and as relations between developing countries become more prominent. This globalization of engineering calls for experienced professionals, and an understanding of international practices in the field. Global Engineering and Construction introduces practices and methods for the american engineer as they find work abroad.
The central theme being highlighted in the first segment of the book is the international nature of the engineering industry. So evident is engineering in the world that "the influence they have had globally can be seen throughout recorded history." Obviously the work of engineers can be seen in the grand structures of history, but what people do not see, according to the text, is the value of engineers in developing infrastructure for a growing nation, or the position of engineers as ambassadors for their home nation. The author then delves in to the idea that engineers teach what they know to distant peoples, but gains from them considerably more. This is saying that their work is an exchange, or a give and take practice. The engineer is representing his nation and teaches others through his work and design, and in return gains valuable insight into an ever expanding world through the feedback and cooperation of the natives. Because the world needs designing and construction, the book expresses that it is the modern engineers task to tackle the issues presented by the global industry.
The second portion of the book focuses on the logistics actual details of the global engineering. Issues addressed include those of culture, business practice, and implementing designs. While working abroad, engineers will encounter problems culturally, and must learn to adapt and accept foreign ways of live while in the host country. Language barriers also inhibit the process of design and construction. The author provides an american perspective on ways to fix these issues. They do not apply universally to engineers, but rather to the american engineer. Solutions include using a translator, advanced documentation techniques, and learning the language depending on the context. Good design practices and contracting methods are further discussed . In the design process, and project management, the global engineer is a leader, organizer, and worker and must act accordingly to get the job done. In preparation, an engineer must be ready for culture, language, foreign laws, customs, weather, and various other aspects.
Overall, this source delves in great detail into the practice of global engineering. Main goals of the book are to inform potential engineers of practices in global engineering as well as providing tips and methodology to be successful. It takes an impersonal approach to the design process and does not talk much about the connections between engineer and local. I hope to use this source as a comparison to the practices and methods of my community. I want to see how EWB functions and what could be changed to better their effectiveness abroad as well as how well it prepares students for a global profession.