Lessons From Six Years in the Civil Engineering Industry: Mistakes, Growth, and Reflections by Engr. Renz Brixter Lingamen
Six years into his career as a licensed civil engineer, Engr. Renz Brixter Lingamen, Founder of Lingamen Engineering, takes a step back and reflects on the journey that has shaped him – not only as an engineer but also as a leader. His words echo the unspoken truths of the profession, where mentorship is often scarce and young engineers are left to learn the ropes on their own.
Six years into his career as a licensed civil engineer, Engr. Renz Brixter Lingamen, Founder of Lingamen Engineering, takes a step back and reflects on the journey that has shaped him – not only as an engineer but also as a leader. His words echo the unspoken truths of the profession, where mentorship is often scarce and young engineers are left to learn the ropes on their own.
Embracing Mistakes as Part of Growth
Fresh from the euphoria of passing the Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, many engineers enter the profession believing they already know enough. Reality, however, quickly humbles.
“Mistakes are inevitable, especially when you’re just starting out,” Engr. Lingamen shares. Instead of fearing them, he urges young professionals to accept mistakes as part of the process. The pressure to be “enough” for every client, company, or colleague may never fade, but the real measure is whether you remain true to yourself. For him, that confidence in one’s own worth is the foundation of resilience.
Daring to Be Bold in a Doubtful World
One of the harsh realities of the profession is that youth is often mistaken for weakness. Young engineers are ridiculed – not just for their errors but for their very inexperience. But Engr. Lingamen emphasizes: “Don’t let it shake you. Believe in your judgment. Stand firm when you know you’re right. At the end of the day, if no one else believes in you, at least you should.”
It’s a reminder that knowing your worth is just as important as knowing your place. True credibility is built not by age, but by courage, persistence, and a commitment to excellence.
Turning Challenges into a Mission
Looking back, Engr. Lingamen admits he never had a mentor to guide him through the uncertainties of the profession. Yet, instead of allowing that void to hold him back, he used it as fuel – to grow, to improve, and to succeed.
Now in a leadership role, he commits to being the support he once needed. His message to fellow engineers is clear: “When it’s your turn to lead, be that person for someone else too.”
The Legacy of Leadership
The journey of Engr. Renz Brixter Lingamen is not just about personal milestones, but about paving the way for others. His story is a powerful reminder that the engineering profession thrives not only on technical expertise, but also on the willingness to guide, uplift, and inspire the next generation.
And for every young civil engineer finding their way, his words serve as both a comfort and a challenge: mistakes don’t define you – your growth does.