I have a question (specifically for the structural guys, but I would appreciate input from all), for all of you that have been brave enough to venture out and start your own engineering firm.
How much experience did you have when you did it, and how did you make the assessment of whether you had enough experience/expertise?
I am assuming that most small (1-3 or so man firms) typically do smaller projects. Do you ever regret going that route instead of working for a mid-size or larger firm and have the opportunity to work on bigger projects that are more recognizable? I've considered the possibility of going out on my own at some point (not that I am anywhere near that point right now), and I always struggle with the idea of doing houses and other small projects that may not even include designing a structure (maybe just designing reinforcement for a column for a change of use of space or something similar) when right now I work on projects that win architectural awards and I have the opportunity to work with world-class architects and have people say, "Oh, I know that building" or "I've been there" when I am asked about projects that I work on. Not that it's all about accolades, but it is nice. Do any of you have any regrets on that front?
Also, what's the pay like when you go it alone? I am sure it's tough at first. How long did/does it take to get yourself to a comfortable income and is anyone making comfortably in the 6 figures?
Any other insights would be greatly appreciated.
How much experience did you have when you did it, and how did you make the assessment of whether you had enough experience/expertise?
I am assuming that most small (1-3 or so man firms) typically do smaller projects. Do you ever regret going that route instead of working for a mid-size or larger firm and have the opportunity to work on bigger projects that are more recognizable? I've considered the possibility of going out on my own at some point (not that I am anywhere near that point right now), and I always struggle with the idea of doing houses and other small projects that may not even include designing a structure (maybe just designing reinforcement for a column for a change of use of space or something similar) when right now I work on projects that win architectural awards and I have the opportunity to work with world-class architects and have people say, "Oh, I know that building" or "I've been there" when I am asked about projects that I work on. Not that it's all about accolades, but it is nice. Do any of you have any regrets on that front?
Also, what's the pay like when you go it alone? I am sure it's tough at first. How long did/does it take to get yourself to a comfortable income and is anyone making comfortably in the 6 figures?
Any other insights would be greatly appreciated.