Briefly…

• “The 21st-Century Engineer: A Proposal for Engineering Education Reform,” by Patricia D. Galloway, PE, argues that engineers today are often seen simply as advisors and technicians. The author also argues that this situation must change—and that the means to do so are in the hands of engineers themselves. For ordering information, go to www.pubs.asce.org.

• The “U.S. Construction Outlook 2008-2009” from Reed Construction Data provides an overview of the U.S. economy, including employment, interest rates, gross domestic product, foreign trade, and construction starts. In addition, the report provides historical data and key forecasts with respect to all categories of construction. For more information, go to www.reedconstructiondata.com

• Bentley Systems, Exton, Pa., announced its trial program for generative design in architecture and engineering. The program, which opens Nov. 16, will include a no-charge 90-day subscription to GenerativeComponents—Bentley's generative design software—and a Web 2.0 community forum for users.