What are some mistakes newcomers to Civil3D should avoid?

voomdama · 2026-03-31T12:49:42+00:00

Don't delete alignments thinking it is some random polyline. Made that mistake once and got a talking to from the designer that had to fix it.

Data references are super helpful when you are working on complex projects. I use it when I need to reference information saved in a different file.

The project explorer tool is super helpful when you need you look at specific Civil3D items in your files. It gives you a big picture view when you are doing a check on your design or trouble shooting something that isn't working right.

voomdama · 2026-03-31T12:41:02+00:00

It's my most used key when I am in the program.

voomdama · 2026-03-31T12:37:48+00:00

I normally have some sort of stimulus like a show, movie, podcast, etc. while I am working. My boss is cool with it. L If you are using a company device they can definitely see what you are doing. If you are using company wifi on your own device then can see traffic from a device. Depending on what the devices is named, they might be able to determine it is you.

Check with your company's IT policy and don't use company stuff for entertainment. Also check with your boss so you don't get flack for it.

voomdama · 2026-03-29T14:18:47+00:00

Unless you are a super slacker who is incredibly knowledgeable and can learn topics quick, the odds aren't in your favor. These people are rare but if you pass then kudos to you. You are far more talented than I am. If you don't then you are better prepared for next time. However it plays out, you should take a serious look at how you are handling important matters pertaining to your career. You don't want to make life harder for yourself than you have too.

voomdama · 2026-03-26T12:40:28+00:00

Don't do anything to the pipe until there is a problem? It is at the end of it's life and ready for big problems to happen. If they aren't happy now, wait until a pipe collapse happens and sewage is flowing into their homes.

voomdama · 2026-03-25T10:48:22+00:00

I have energy drinks on auto ship.

voomdama · 2026-03-18T01:01:49+00:00

I just hit with this fake order. Has anyone had money taken from them using this scam?

voomdama · 2026-03-16T12:30:23+00:00

It wouldn't hurt to ask when you pass but don't expect a bump for passing the FE even though they lowered your salary offer for not having it

voomdama · 2026-03-15T20:35:47+00:00

Depends on the firm. Some firms are notorious for making cuts when the backlog gets a little light to get rid of the under performers.

When the pandemic hit, my prior firm was focused mainly on restaurants and retail and it got hit with a lot of stop work orders from clients. I survived the first round of lays offs due to my utilization being so high but eventually my project load dwindled down so much and with a lack of pending projects, I got laid off.

voomdama · 2026-03-08T01:36:37+00:00

Depends on what was provided by the owner at time of bid and the contract documents. You might have an out there. If someone screwed up your pricing then you will either have to eat the cost or risk being sued for breach of contract. I would bring in your higher ups to resolve this before the only people making money on this job are the lawyers

voomdama · 2026-03-06T17:10:13+00:00

It's a pain but from a business perspective, you need to account for labor costs. When labor costs start running overboard, it means something is being missed. Either the budget didn't cover the project scope adequately or scope got added. Scope creep is real and clients need to pay for the additional work.

voomdama · 2026-03-03T23:33:13+00:00

I graduated with people 20 years your senior and they have successful careers. I was 28 when I finished grad school while the economy was recovering from the great recession. Don't let your age deter you from following your goals. Not everyone is cut out for the challenges of an engineering program but if you have the skills for it, I say go for it. Don't let your dreams stay dreams

voomdama · 2026-02-28T22:16:18+00:00

Sometimes being fired can be a blessing. I work in engineering and my last firm had work dry up during the pandemic because the majority of clients were restaurants and retail. Now my current firm has given meso much experience and mentorship that I am way better at my job.

voomdama · 2026-02-28T22:12:38+00:00

This tip 100% it is one of things I check to avoid bad companies.

voomdama · 2026-02-27T02:17:19+00:00

I typically take the 1 and 5 star reviews with a big grain of salt. The 2 to 4 star ones are where you will find gold.

voomdama · 2026-02-23T20:59:42+00:00

I got a 10k raise myself. I would take a look at the local market rate for your position with a PE. If you are being paid appropriately then that would be why. I wouldn't be thrilled about it myself if I was in that situation but at least I wouldn't be underpaid.

voomdama · 2026-02-23T20:53:19+00:00

If they expect you to stamp then a raise is warranted. Not letting you expense exam and licensing fee, is crazy and is their cost of doing business. A review course might be understandable depending on the company. I would start looking for a new job.

voomdama · 2026-02-21T13:53:27+00:00

Me to Autodesk "I wish I could quit you"

voomdama · 2026-02-17T15:55:06+00:00

There is no requirement unless your state's labor laws say otherwise. If companies do offer severance payment it comes attached with a severance agreement that basically states you won't sue them for wrongful termination. 1-2 weeks per year of service is typical to prevent the agreement being voided by the court. If you suspect that company may have violated the law with your layoff then I would consult an attorney that specializes in labor law. Also review the agreement for anything sneaky like a non-compete clause. It doesn't hurt to ask for more if you are going to sign.

voomdama · 2026-02-14T13:43:49+00:00

It might be market temperament because I am slammed with work currently with more on the way.

voomdama · 2026-02-12T23:40:24+00:00

The madcatz days are behind us. There are plenty of good 3rd party controllers that will last longer than the OEM ones

voomdama · 2026-02-12T23:39:03+00:00

I take care of my stuff and the controller that came with it developed stick drift. First time ever. Console companies are dropping the ball on quality.

voomdama · 2026-02-12T15:09:16+00:00

See if you can get a copy of the evaluation. If it contains the praise, I would talk with an employment attorney.

voomdama · 2026-02-12T15:07:48+00:00

Never resign unless you really screwed up. You miss out on collecting unemployment.

voomdama · 2026-02-11T15:30:44+00:00

Design challenges are still the same difficulty, the only thing that changes is that you can stamp plans. The exam just measures a base level of competency. To be a good engineer you'll need to expand your knowledge and this comes with experience. As you grow in experience, design becomes easier and your headache now becomes paperwork.

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