Got Let Go, Got a Second Chance—Looking for Advice to Hit the Ground Running

So, I recently got let go from my previous employer for “not being a good fit” for the role. Looking back, I think I oversold myself a bit in the interview, and it caught up with me. Lesson learned.

Now, I have a second chance with a very well-known and well-regarded land development and transportation civil engineering firm in my area. This is a company I really want to succeed with. I was much more upfront about my actual skill set in the interview this time, and they still saw value in bringing me on. They told me I fit three different needs they have and offered me a position yesterday. I really want to make a strong first impression and prove myself here.

Where I’m At Skill-Wise: • I can set up GPS and establish temporary control. • I can use a total station to shoot points that GPS can’t hit. • I can model terrain accurately with breaklines. • I’m decent with Civil 3D and understand CAD well enough. • Where I need growth: I’m not as strong in deed research, making plats, and final deliverables.

This company is also in the middle of rolling out Carlson across the board as they move away from Bentley/OpenRoads. They want me to be part of the transition, but first, they’re putting me in the field this summer to assess my work ethic, skills, and dedication. Long-term, they see me moving into a designer role, which lines up well with my civil engineering studies in an ABET-accredited online program.

I really want to hit the ground running and make the best possible impression. Any advice on excelling in the field while also preparing to transition into Carlson and, eventually, a design role? Would love to hear from anyone who’s been through a similar situation!