Civil engineering keeps the surrounding environment safe, modern and efficient. Unexpectedly, civil engineering is the oldest of the major engineering disciplines. Engineering was a significant element of civilizations, leading to the development of the first school of engineering. In 1747, the National School of Bridges and Highways in France launched and enabled the expansion of engineering. John Smeaton was the first person to actually call himself a "Civil Engineer". In the 21st century, civil engineering has taken a unique turn. Through modernization, new structures are formed and efficiency increases significantly. Now “structural engineering is seen as an art form rather than a science” (Saouma). Civil engineering is the fundamental foundation that supports society. Innovation and newfound creativity are creating the greatest structures of the century. Civil engineering is the application of physical and scientific principles to solve society's problems, and its history is closely linked to advances in the understanding of physics and mathematics throughout history. Precise measurements are key to creating the magnificent structures seen today. Knowing all the minute details of every inch of a project is the first thing on an engineer's mind. Questions like “Is it 100% safe?” become a priority. The stability and safety of every idea that emerges from an engineer's imagination must be tested repeatedly and precisely. Having a background in mathematics and physics allows for the analysis of every possible aspect when it comes to the construction of homes, hotels and every building that exists today. Regardless of the size of a project, every element is addressed. Using your creativity and backg...... middle of paper ...... ety is one of the many tasks that civil engineers face. Throughout the life of an engineer, he will face many situations where he will have to solve problems. Engineers travel often and “meeting new people is a fact of life in civil engineering” (Chu). The collaboration of people and fellow engineers allows for the expansion of the thought process towards creating the next modern configuration. Technology is improving rapidly in the 21st century. Civil engineering must adapt. Key concepts such as efficiency are related to contemporary technology. As the population grows, technology makes it possible to have a large amount of space within a small complex. Folding walls, foot space, and the transformation of the wooden floor into a kitchen table all incorporate the modern civil engineering movement. In the civil engineering profession, “keeping up with the Joneses” is inevitable.