Is it difficult for women to become successful civil engineers?

Not any harder than for the men. 21 years and still loving my career. Has it all been smooth sailing? No. But it's been worth it. In hind sight I wish I'd taken advantage of groups like the Society of Women Engineers. Take advantage of this type of group and other professional organizations for networking and mentoring no go for it if it's something that interests you.

Quick answer - absolutely not. All you have to do is be good in your work and not expect any favors. The woman engineers I hired worked out wonderfully. As a matter of fact one of the women I hired took my place when I retired as Deputy Director of Public Works. She has now held the position for some 20+ years. So, go for it. One additional word of advice - take as many courses in the various phases of Civil Engineering as possible. Don't specialize in one particular branch. I even ventured into the Electrical Engineering College for several courses which paid off handsomely years later.

Absolutely not. The push is for women to get into STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The sky is the limit. Scholarships and jobs there is no limit. Just remember the PIE theory - Performance, Image, Exposure. Perform well and take on all the math and science classes with confidence. Get help when you need it and do not be afraid of the male competition. I challenge you to take the plunge and become a STEM student so you can go into medicine to help people or design and build things to help people as well.