TCEP 241: From Civil Engineer to HR Manager: How to Make the Switch

In this episode, I talk with Matthew Alboum, P.E., a regional human resource manager at Dewberry, who made a successful career transition from civil engineer to HR manager, about how he leveraged his engineering background to excel in HR. He also discuss the importance of acknowledging individuality and leveraging strengths for a fulfilling career, and he provides some great advice for engineers considering a career transition to HR.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Matthew:

Did you pursue the management degree to enter a management role, but were uncertain at that time if it would ultimately lead you to a career in HR?

How have you found the skills and experience gained from your engineering background to be useful in your HR work?

Could you discuss the challenges you encountered during this transition and how you managed to overcome them?

Based on your experience transitioning from a technical field to HR, what advice would you offer to individuals who are considering a similar career change?

How have professional societies impacted your career, particularly during your transition into HR, and have you made any changes in the societies you're involved with as a result?

Do you ever miss the engineering or technical field, and in what ways do you still engage with it?

What final advice can you offer regarding the transition from being a civil engineer to an HR manager?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Going from Civil Engineer to HR Manager: 

Each engineer's individuality is crucial to acknowledge, as their motivations and interests vary, presenting distinctive avenues for success. By understanding oneself and leveraging personal strengths, one can chart a career path aligned with their passions, leading to a fulfilling and rewarding journey of self-discovery and professional growth.

Leveraging prior engineering experience, HR professionals gain valuable insights into employee challenges and aspirations, facilitating meaningful conversations with managers and younger professionals, while support from engineering-oriented leaders encourages the effective utilization of this unique skill set in the HR domain.

Transitioning to HR from an engineering background presents challenges such as overcoming reservations, leveraging expertise, balancing responsibilities within the company, and communicating the change to colleagues. Embracing these challenges is essential for personal and professional growth during career transitions.

Exploring HR-related opportunities aligned with personal interests, such as mentorship programs and knowledge management, and gradually wading into the field allows for a better understanding of compatibility and prevents feeling overwhelmed. Taking this gradual approach aids in making a confident career decision and finding fulfillment in the chosen direction.

Active involvement in professional societies enhances career development through networking, meaningful relationships, and seizing opportunities, highlighting the importance of finding societies aligned with personal interests rather than conforming to industry expectations.

The question of missing the engineering or technical field after transitioning to HR arises, and the response varies. While still in an engineering company, staying connected to technical aspects becomes challenging, but involvement can be maintained by supporting and mentoring colleagues. As careers progress, there naturally comes a point where technical involvement diminishes. Satisfaction with past technical accomplishments remains, and future directions may include continued HR involvement or more engagement in the operational side of engineering.