FraiserCrane:
Of course you should be interested in future changes to the various codes which govern your designs, but it really sounds like you should first learn (really learn) the codes and design processes/methods you are working with. Are there any workplaces, any longer, where a young engineer is paired with an experienced practitioner, or a mentor, so they can learn their trade with some guidance and help in understanding what they are doing and why? Are there any senior engineers within these companies who actually check and review designs before they leave the office for permitting? Yes, learning any new engineering field is though (“learning the hard way” ?), but it will stick with you a lot longer if you have to do some of your own digging for the right info. and answers. Aren’t there any good textbooks out their on this subject, which would be good reading for the current learning process, and then also good reference books on down the line? The guys/gals who do this every day should have some suggestions on this matter. When was the last time you took a good textbook or a code book home with you to study on your own time? You shouldn’t expect to learn everything in your toolbox on the company clock, you should bring some every expanding knowledge and experience to the job, of your own volition.
