Education and progress of civil engineers are prerequisites for quality construction and new achievements in civil engineering. Throughout history, achievements in civil engineering have raised the standard of living, and the quality of buildings has sometimes made the difference between life and death. This thesis aims to highlight the importance of education in order to motivate young engineers to continuous progress and training. The thesis presents the process of education of civil engineers, possible career paths of civil engineers, the process of establishment in the profession, and the differences between career paths in Republic of Croatia and foreign practices. In addition, a survey was conducted among young engineers who completed their studies last year, on career development preferences. At the end, a proposal for the process of making a personal career development plan was given. This thesis thus represents the beginning of research into the opportunities of career development of a civil engineer in the Republic of Croatia and other countries.