The causes of the crisis
Among the main causes that have contributed to the decline in interest in civil engineering is the perception of greater work difficulties compared to other engineering directions. Although civil engineering graduates have recorded a increase in incomes in recent years, thanks to PNRR projects (National Recovery and Resilience Plan) and various others Construction Bonusesthe end of these stimuli brought to light persistent problemssuch as a higher unemployment rate than other engineering sectors.
In 2023, the unemployment rate among civil engineering graduates one year after graduation it was 4.1%, superior to the average of 3% found for the other engineering majors.
Civil engineering also suffers from the perception of being a less innovative fieldor compared to sectors such as biomedical and management engineering, which are more attractive to young people thanks to their growing applications and more versatile job opportunities.
Professional opportunities and occupational challenges
Despite the appeal crisis, the job market continues to require civil engineers. Italian companies have planned to hire almost 6 thousand graduates in 2023 for roles related to construction and environmental engineering. However, one thing stands out discrepancy between the demand and supply of graduatesas many positions are difficult to fill, often due to a lack of qualified candidates or inadequate preparation.
One of the main outlets for civil engineering graduates it remains the same freelance profession. In 2023, 3,873 new civil engineers enrolled in the Register, a figure that also includes graduates in related disciplines such as environmental engineering. However, the choice of freelance it is not without its challengesas it requires transversal skills and the ability to adapt to an evolving market. In recent years, professionals have seen an increase in average income, which in 2022 exceeded 54 thousand euros.
Towards the future: what prospects for civil engineering?
The decline in civil engineering graduates does not appear to be due to a decrease in demand in the labor market, but rather to a transformation of young people’s preferences towards sectors perceived as more dynamic and innovative. However, the figure of the civil engineer remains essential to face the infrastructural and environmental challenges of the future.
The civil engineering crisis presents the educational and professional system with a challenge necessary reflection. Universities and professional institutions must consider new strategies to revive the appeal of the discipline, enhancing the opportunities offered by new technological trends and global challenges, such as sustainability and the management of environmental resources. Innovating training programs and promoting the importance of these skills could be the key to reverse the negative trend.
From the press release by Antonio Felici, head of the CNI press office
