The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) recently visited Robertsdale High School in Baldwin County to highlight career opportunities in civil engineering. They also shared information about ALDOT’s Professional Civil Engineer Trainee (PCET) program. The visit took place during the school’s annual career day, an event that helps juniors and seniors explore career paths after graduation.
Career coaches with Baldwin County Public Schools invited ALDOT to speak with students who are interested in engineering, construction, math and science. ALDOT graduate engineer Daniel Campbell and Southwest Region Public Information Officer James Gordon led the presentations.
Real-World Insight From an ALDOT Engineer
Campbell, a Baldwin County native, shared his path from high school student to ALDOT civil engineer.
“I attended and graduated from Baldwin County Virtual School in 2020 and then earned my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of South Alabama in 2025,” Campbell said. “I was hired as a PCET on April 4, 2022, and I’ve been with ALDOT for about three and a half years. During that time, I’ve worked in district permitting, the project office and in bridge operations.”
His experience demonstrated to students how the PCET program helps future engineers build real-world skills and prepares them for long-term careers in transportation engineering.
What the PCET Program Offers Students
The PCET program is a paid training opportunity for students pursuing a career in civil engineering. It provides hands-on experience in key areas of transportation infrastructure, including:
- Roadway and bridge design
- Construction inspection
- Traffic engineering
- Permitting and district operations
- Environmental studies
- Bridge operations
PCET participants rotate through several ALDOT units. This provides them a comprehensive understanding of how major highway and bridge projects are planned, designed and constructed.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
During the career day sessions, Campbell and Gordon explained that civil engineering is a strong fit for students who enjoy solving problems, building things, engaging in creative design, working with math and science and helping their communities.
Students learned that civil engineers play a major role in shaping Alabama’s infrastructure, from the roads they drive on to the bridges their families use every day. Many were surprised to discover the numerous career options available within the field.
The visit was part of ALDOT’s ongoing mission to connect with students early and show them the pathways that lead to rewarding, stable and impactful careers.
Want To Learn More?
Students interested in participating in an internship or the PCET program for civil engineers at ALDOT can email recruiting@dot.state.al.us for more information.
To explore current opportunities and learn more about careers at ALDOT, visit ALDOTjobs.org.
ALDOT will continue visiting classrooms and career events across the state, encouraging young people to discover how they can help build Alabama’s future, one road, bridge and project at a time.
