Beyond the Blueprint: Partnering with Engineers for Social and Sustainable Impact

(April 8, 2025) The most meaningful buildings do more than meet design goals—they make a difference. Across the industry, structural engineers are redefining their role, shaping projects that are accessible, sustainable, and socially impactful. For professionals across the built community, this evolution offers an opportunity to partner more deeply with engineers to create spaces that serve broader communities and elevate the human experience. Tanya de Hoog, 2024 president of the Institution of Structural Engineers, champions this approach as “engineering with purpose”—a philosophy rooted in public safety, equity, and environmental stewardship.

Consider how structural engineers’ early project involvement can enhance the following:

Social Impact Consideration: Structural engineers are increasingly focusing on designing structures that are accessible, affordable, and beneficial to a wide range of people. This means creating spaces that ensure everyone has access to safe and inspiring environments.

The Role of Sustainability: Structural engineers can play an important role in addressing climate change by prioritizing sustainable practices in their designs and operations. Architects and building owners should collaborate with engineers to incorporate designs that are resilient, adaptable, and contribute to a circular economy.

Project Value: Engineers can significantly enhance a project beyond the initial vision by offering innovative structural solutions that not only meet aesthetic goals but also improve a building's performance and sustainability. Recognizing engineers as essential partners in the design process can help achieve optimal outcomes.

“Rather than focus solely on technical advancements, I emphasize the broader impact of engineering on society and the environment,” de Hoog says. This philosophy is evident in her advocacy for “engineering with purpose.” For her, this means recognizing that the profession’s original mandate—public safety—must now extend to addressing climate change, promoting equity, and fostering sustainable communities.

To find out more about how embracing a collaborative, purpose-driven approach can transform your next project—and its impact on the world, read “Structural Influencers,” in the January 2025 issue of Structure magazine.