Meet Chris Brozik, Vice President & Principal Engineer at Civil Design, Inc. Chris has a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of engineering and has a proven track record of successfully completing transportation and structural projects over his 10+ year career.

Name: Chris Brozik

Title: Vice President & Principal Engineer

Hometown: Madison, SD

Company: Civil Design Inc.

What are your responsibilities?

Chris is the Lead Structural Designer & Certified Bridge Inspector at Civil Design, Inc. He’s also the team leader of the Structural Department, project manager of all structural projects and provides oversight and guidance to the engineering and technician staff. He coordinates with clients and is responsible for construction administration services provided on construction projects.

How did you find your way to where you are today?

While attending South Dakota State University for both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Chris was fortunate to gain experience working at the City of Brookings in the Engineering Department and did so for approximately 4 years. Shortly before graduating with his Master’s degree, Chris began working for Civil Design Inc. (CDI) and has been there ever since.

Brozik started at CDI as an Engineer-in-Training, obtained his Professional Engineer’s License and was promoted to Project Engineer. Approximately 5-1/2 years into his career at CDI, he became part owner at the firm and currently holds the title Vice President & Principal Engineer.

What role has education and training played in your career path?

Brozik shares, “The education I received at South Dakota State University has been invaluable! I wouldn’t be where I am today without the preparation SDSU provided me in the Civil Engineering profession.”

What qualities or characteristics do you find are necessary to be successful in your role?

Chris says, “You need to have good math skills, be team oriented, communicate well, have the ability to work under tight project timelines/deadlines when necessary, pay attention to detail, the ability to work indoors and outdoors and the flexibility to adjust to changes in your environment.”

How would you recommend someone interested in the same career/occupation pursue a similar path?

Brozik encourages students to attend Junior or Senior days at South Dakota State University and furthermore, “get into a summer construction job to gain knowledge about the construction industry”. When in college, gain knowledge through internships prior to graduation. He states, “employers are always looking for students that are hard-working and have some real-world experiences”.

What extracurricular activities helped you develop professionally?

Chris is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and Connect 2140, a Brookings Chamber committee (young professional’s group). He also attends industry and professional conferences and is a volunteer presenter. Chris is also an avid golfer!

What are other skillsets (perhaps unconventional) that thrive in this field?

Brozik believes it’s important to be hard working, have the ability to pay attention to detail, great communication and doing more than is necessary to achieve the end product.

What is a typical salary range for someone starting in line of work?

Chris states that “Graduates earning Bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering can expect to earn $45,000 – $60,000 annually when entering the field, depending on the type of work and geographic location”.

Want to learn more? Connect with Chris!

Chris Brozik|Vice President & Principal Engineer | CDI

cbrozik@civildes.com | 605-696-3200

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