Network Design Engineers: $100K-$180K Communication Architecture (The Engineering Career Silicon Valley Can't Outsource)
Discover how network design engineers earn $100K-$180K annually designing telecommunications infrastructure. Complete 2025 guide with technical requirements, salary progression, geographic markets, and systematic entry strategies for communication architecture careers.
While software engineers fight over remote coding positions that can be outsourced to global talent pools paying $15/hour, strategic technical professionals are building six-figure careers as network design engineers—earning $115K-$180K annually designing the physical infrastructure that every digital service depends on.
Amanda Chen thought telecommunications engineering meant "outdated network protocols" that cloud computing was making irrelevant. The 29-year-old software developer had spent six months collecting rejection emails from Bay Area tech companies while watching her peers accept $85,000 offers for positions that might be automated or offshored within five years.
Then Amanda discovered something that fundamentally changed her perspective on engineering careers: A Network Design Engineer position at a regional telecommunications provider was offering $125,000 plus comprehensive benefits for designing the 5G and fiber infrastructure that enables every cloud service, streaming platform, and remote work solution—engineering work that requires physical proximity and cannot be outsourced.
Twenty-six months later, Amanda earns $148,000 annually as a Senior Network Architect, designing multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects from her Denver office, working with cutting-edge 5G and fiber technologies, and advancing toward Principal Engineer roles commanding $175K-$200K+. Her job security: guaranteed by infrastructure necessity. Her work impact: enabling digital connectivity for millions of Americans. Her career trajectory: systematically accelerating through essential infrastructure expertise.
"I spent months chasing software jobs that could disappear overnight," Amanda explains. "Meanwhile, network design engineering was offering stable six-figure careers designing physical infrastructure that cannot be moved offshore or automated away. Plus, I'm building the backbone that makes all digital innovation possible."
Amanda discovered what infrastructure data reveals but tech career advice ignores: Network design engineers earn more with better job security than most software developers, designing essential infrastructure that requires local expertise and physical implementation.
Why Network Design Engineers Command Premium Salaries vs. Software Development
Here's the reality creating systematic career advantages: America's telecommunications infrastructure requires 85,000+ network design engineers across carriers, contractors, and equipment vendors, generating systematic demand for specialized professionals earning $105K-$180K annually with outsource-resistant expertise.
The numbers revealing this hidden engineering opportunity:
Network design engineers average $127,500 nationally with ranges from $95,000-$180,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
5G and fiber infrastructure investment: $400+ billion through 2030 requiring massive engineering workforce
Senior network architects earning $145,000-$200,000 with systematic advancement paths
Principal engineers commanding $165,000-$220,000 plus equity participation
Specialized consultants billing $150-$300/hour for network design expertise
Government contractor premiums: $15K-$35K additional for security clearance work
Meanwhile, "prestigious" software careers create competitive disadvantages:
Software engineering salaries declining due to global remote work competition
Coding bootcamps flooding market with entry-level developers
AI and automation threatening routine programming tasks
Venture funding reductions eliminating high-paying startup opportunities
The systematic insight: While millions compete for software positions facing automation and offshore competition, network design engineers serve essential infrastructure requiring local expertise, physical implementation, and specialized knowledge that cannot be replicated remotely.
Your contrarian advantage: Understanding that infrastructure engineering provides superior job security, advancement predictability, and geographic flexibility compared to software development careers that everyone else targets.
Related High-Paying Career Paths:
The Three-Tier Strategy: Network Design Engineering Career Progression
Instead of hoping random telecommunications applications will generate breakthroughs, strategic engineers target specific advancement tracks that align with their technical capabilities and infrastructure specialization objectives.
Tier 1: Network Design Engineer I ($95K-$130K)
Career model: Network planning, infrastructure design, and capacity analysis for telecommunications systems requiring analytical capabilities and systematic problem-solving skills.
Income progression:
Year 1 (Network Engineer I): $95K-$115K
Year 2 (Network Engineer II): $105K-$125K
Year 3+ (Senior Network Engineer): $120K-$140K
Specialization premium: $8K-$15K for advanced technology expertise
Core responsibilities:
Network Architecture and Planning
Capacity planning: Analyze traffic patterns and forecast network capacity requirements for growth
Route design: Plan fiber optic routes, microwave links, and network connectivity optimization
Equipment selection: Evaluate telecommunications equipment for performance, cost, and compatibility
Network modeling: Use design software to simulate network performance and optimization scenarios
Technical Documentation and Standards
Design documentation: Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and implementation plans
Standards compliance: Ensure designs meet carrier standards, FCC regulations, and industry best practices
Change management: Document network modifications and coordinate implementation procedures
Quality assurance: Review designs for technical accuracy, cost optimization, and performance standards
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Project coordination: Work with project managers, field engineers, and construction teams
Vendor management: Interface with equipment suppliers for technical specifications and support
Customer requirements: Translate business needs into technical network design solutions
Regulatory compliance: Coordinate with regulatory teams for permitting and approval processes
Real progression example: Verizon Network Design Track
Michael Rodriguez leveraged his electrical engineering background for systematic telecommunications advancement:
Career trajectory:
Network Design Engineer I (Northeast region): $108,000 + education benefits
Network Design Engineer II (5G specialist): $124,000 + project bonuses
Senior Network Design Engineer (fiber backbone): $138,000 + performance incentives
Principal Engineer preparation: Advanced training in network architecture and leadership
Key advancement factors:
Technical excellence: Consistent delivery of high-quality designs within budget and timeline constraints
Technology expertise: Specialized knowledge in 5G, fiber optics, and network optimization
Project leadership: Led cross-functional teams for major infrastructure deployments
Professional development: Industry certifications and continuing education in emerging technologies
Entry requirements:
Bachelor's degree in electrical, telecommunications, or computer engineering
Understanding of network protocols, transmission systems, and telecommunications fundamentals
Proficiency in network design software (AutoCAD, GIS, network modeling tools)
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
Communication skills for technical documentation and stakeholder collaboration
Tier 2: Senior Network Architect ($130K-$165K)
Career model: Advanced network architecture, strategic planning, and technical leadership for complex telecommunications infrastructure requiring deep expertise and cross-functional coordination.
Income progression:
Year 4+ (Senior Network Architect): $130K-$150K
Year 6+ (Principal Network Architect): $145K-$170K
Year 8+ (Lead Architect): $160K-$185K
Consulting opportunities: $175-$275/hour for specialized expertise
Core specializations:
5G Network Architecture ($140K-$175K)
Millimeter wave design: Plan mmWave deployments for ultra-high capacity urban coverage
Network slicing: Design virtualized network segments for different service requirements
Edge computing integration: Architect edge infrastructure for low-latency applications
Massive MIMO optimization: Design advanced antenna systems for capacity and coverage enhancement
Fiber Infrastructure Architecture ($135K-$170K)
Backbone network design: Plan long-haul fiber networks connecting metropolitan areas
Metro network architecture: Design regional fiber infrastructure for business and residential services
Data center connectivity: Architect high-capacity connections between data centers and networks
Redundancy and resilience: Design fault-tolerant networks with multiple path diversity
Enterprise and Government Solutions ($145K-$180K)
Government networks: Design secure telecommunications for federal and state agencies
Enterprise connectivity: Architect private networks for large corporations and institutions
Critical infrastructure: Design networks for utilities, transportation, and emergency services
Security integration: Implement cybersecurity requirements in network architecture designs
Real example: AT&T Senior Architecture Track
Sarah Kim built expertise in emerging technologies for premium network design roles:
Career development:
Senior Network Architect (5G core design): $142,000 + technology bonuses
Principal Network Architect (multi-technology integration): $165,000 + project leadership premiums
Lead Network Architect (strategic planning): $178,000 + equity participation
Director of Network Architecture preparation: Executive leadership development
Advanced project examples:
Metropolitan 5G deployment: Architected $180M 5G network serving 2.5 million customers
Fiber backbone expansion: Designed 1,200-mile fiber network connecting six states
Enterprise solutions: Led architecture for $50M government network modernization
Technology evaluation: Assessed next-generation equipment for $300M infrastructure investment
Advanced qualifications:
Master's degree in telecommunications or related engineering field (preferred)
5+ years network design experience with increasing responsibility
Industry certifications (CCNP, JNCIP, vendor-specific advanced certifications)
Proven track record leading complex, multi-million dollar infrastructure projects
Deep expertise in emerging technologies (5G, SDN/NFV, cloud integration)
Tier 3: Principal Engineer and Technical Leadership ($160K-$220K+)
Career model: Strategic technical leadership, innovation development, and architectural vision for telecommunications companies seeking competitive advantage through advanced infrastructure capabilities.
Income progression:
Year 7+ (Principal Network Engineer): $160K-$185K
Year 10+ (Distinguished Engineer): $180K-$210K
Year 12+ (Chief Technology Officer): $200K-$280K
Consulting and advisory: $250-$400/hour for executive-level expertise
Core responsibilities:
Strategic Technology Leadership ($170K-$200K)
Technology roadmaps: Develop 5-10 year strategic plans for network evolution and investment
Innovation assessment: Evaluate emerging technologies for competitive advantage and implementation
Standards development: Participate in industry standards organizations and technology development
Executive advisory: Provide technical guidance to executive leadership for strategic decisions
Advanced Architecture and Research ($165K-$195K)
Next-generation technologies: Research and develop 6G, quantum networking, and advanced technologies
Network optimization: Design advanced algorithms and techniques for network performance enhancement
Artificial intelligence integration: Implement AI and machine learning for network automation
Patent development: Create intellectual property through innovative network design solutions
Industry Leadership and External Relations ($180K-$220K)
Conference speaking: Present at major industry conferences on advanced telecommunications topics
Industry advisory: Serve on technology advisory boards and standards committees
Vendor partnerships: Lead strategic technology partnerships with equipment manufacturers
Academic collaboration: Partner with universities on research and development initiatives
Real example: Crown Castle Principal Engineer Track
David Martinez advanced to technical leadership through systematic expertise development:
Career progression:
Principal Network Engineer (small cell architecture): $168,000 + innovation bonuses
Distinguished Engineer (5G integration lead): $195,000 + patent incentives
Chief Technology Officer (regional operations): $225,000 + equity participation
Industry advisory roles: Additional compensation through board positions and consulting
Technical leadership achievements:
Small cell innovation: Developed proprietary small cell deployment methodology reducing costs by 35%
5G integration: Led industry collaboration on 5G infrastructure sharing standards
Patent portfolio: Generated 12 patents in network optimization and deployment techniques
Industry recognition: Received telecommunications industry innovation awards and speaking opportunities
Executive qualifications:
Advanced degree (Master's/PhD) in telecommunications, electrical engineering, or related field
10+ years progressive experience in network design and telecommunications leadership
Proven track record of innovation, patent development, and industry recognition
Strong business acumen combining technical expertise with strategic thinking
Executive communication skills for board-level presentations and industry leadership
Geographic Strategy: Where Network Design Engineers Earn Most
Different markets offer varying advantages for systematic network engineering career development, creating opportunities for geographic specialization based on advancement objectives and technical focus areas.
Premium Technology Markets
Silicon Valley - Innovation and Integration Hub
Average salaries: 40-50% above national averages due to technology company proximity and competition
Specialization advantages: Cloud integration, edge computing, and next-generation technology development
Career acceleration: Access to cutting-edge projects and technology leadership opportunities
Cost consideration: High living costs offset by premium compensation and equity opportunities
Boston - Research and Development Center
Academic collaboration: MIT, Harvard, and other research institutions driving advanced technology development
Government contracts: Federal technology development and defense communications systems
Innovation focus: Research and development roles combining academic and commercial applications
Intellectual property: Patent development and technology licensing opportunities
Washington DC - Government and Critical Infrastructure
Security clearance premiums: $20K-$40K additional compensation for cleared positions
Critical infrastructure: Design of government, military, and emergency communications systems
Regulatory expertise: Direct access to FCC, NTIA, and other telecommunications regulatory agencies
Stability advantages: Government contracts providing recession-resistant employment
High-Growth Infrastructure Markets
Denver - Mountain West Regional Hub
Balanced opportunity: Strong telecommunications presence with reasonable living costs
Geographic challenges: Mountain terrain creating specialized design requirements and expertise
Energy integration: Oil and gas communications infrastructure creating specialized opportunities
Quality of life: Outdoor recreation access and work-life balance advantages
Austin - Technology and Infrastructure Convergence
Corporate headquarters: Major technology and telecommunications companies with engineering centers
5G leadership: Advanced 5G testing and deployment creating cutting-edge engineering opportunities
Cost optimization: Lower living costs compared to coastal technology markets
Growth trajectory: Rapid population and business growth driving infrastructure investment
Atlanta - Southeast Regional Center
Carrier concentration: Major wireless and fiber companies with regional engineering operations
International connectivity: Transatlantic cable infrastructure and global communications hub
Business development: Corporate relocations driving enterprise telecommunications infrastructure
Transportation hub: Airport and logistics infrastructure requiring advanced communications systems
The Technical Mastery Framework: Essential Skills for Premium Compensation
Network design engineers earning six-figure salaries combine deep technical expertise with business understanding and project leadership capabilities that drive measurable infrastructure value.
Core Technical Competencies
Network Protocols and Architecture
OSI model expertise: Deep understanding of network layering and protocol interaction
TCP/IP mastery: Advanced routing, switching, and network optimization techniques
MPLS and VPN technologies: Enterprise and carrier network design for secure connectivity
Quality of Service (QoS): Traffic management and performance optimization for critical applications
Network security: Integrated security design for telecommunications infrastructure protection
Telecommunications Technologies
Fiber optic systems: DWDM, ROADM, and advanced optical networking technologies
Wireless technologies: 4G LTE, 5G NR, Wi-Fi 6/7, and emerging wireless standards
Microwave and satellite: Point-to-point and point-to-multipoint wireless backhaul design
Transmission systems: SDH/SONET, Ethernet, and packet transport network architectures
Network synchronization: Timing and frequency distribution for network coordination
Design Tools and Software Proficiency
Network Design and Modeling Software
AutoCAD and GIS: Geographic design and infrastructure mapping capabilities
Network modeling tools: OPNET, NS-3, and carrier-specific design platforms
RF planning software: Atoll, Planet, and wireless coverage prediction tools
Fiber design tools: FiberPlan, NetCracker, and optical network design platforms
Project management: Microsoft Project, Primavera, and telecommunications project tracking
Emerging Technology Platforms
Software-defined networking (SDN): OpenFlow, ONOS, and network programmability
Network function virtualization (NFV): Virtualized network services and cloud integration
Cloud platforms: AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud telecommunications services
Artificial intelligence: Machine learning applications for network optimization and automation
Edge computing: Mobile edge computing and distributed infrastructure design
Business and Leadership Capabilities
Financial Analysis and Business Case Development
Capital expenditure planning: ROI analysis and infrastructure investment justification
Total cost of ownership: Lifecycle cost analysis for telecommunications equipment and systems
Vendor evaluation: Technical and financial assessment of equipment suppliers and solutions
Business case development: Translating technical designs into business value and competitive advantage
Risk assessment: Technical, financial, and operational risk analysis for infrastructure projects
Project Leadership and Stakeholder Management
Cross-functional coordination: Managing relationships across engineering, operations, sales, and executive teams
Vendor management: Technical coordination with equipment suppliers and system integrators
Customer requirements: Translating business needs into technical specifications and implementation plans
Regulatory compliance: Coordinating with legal and regulatory teams for approvals and standards compliance
Change management: Managing technical changes and coordinating implementation across operations teams
Your 90-Day Network Design Engineering Career Acceleration Strategy
Unlike random job applications hoping for telecommunications breakthrough, systematic career development requires focused technical preparation, portfolio development, and strategic positioning over 12-16 week timeline.
Days 1-30: Technical Foundation and Market Analysis
Week 1: Telecommunications fundamentals and industry overview
Study network architecture: OSI model, TCP/IP, routing and switching fundamentals
Learn telecommunications technologies: Fiber optics, wireless systems, and transmission technologies
Research major players: Equipment vendors (Cisco, Ericsson, Nokia), carriers (Verizon, AT&T), and system integrators
Understand industry trends: 5G deployment, fiber expansion, edge computing, and network virtualization
Week 2: Network design tools and software
AutoCAD basics: Learn fundamental CAD skills for telecommunications design and documentation
GIS software: Understanding geographic information systems for network planning and mapping
Network simulation: Basic familiarity with network modeling and performance simulation tools
Project management: Microsoft Project or equivalent for telecommunications project planning
Week 3: Technology specialization research
5G technology: Study 5G architecture, deployment strategies, and design requirements
Fiber optic networks: Learn fiber design principles, equipment, and installation considerations
Enterprise networks: Understand business connectivity requirements and design approaches
Government/critical infrastructure: Research security requirements and specialized design considerations
Week 4: Geographic market and salary analysis
Target market research: Analyze network engineer opportunities in preferred geographic areas
Salary benchmarking: Understand compensation ranges for different experience levels and specializations
Company analysis: Research culture, projects, and advancement opportunities at target employers
Cost of living: Evaluate total compensation considering housing, taxes, and lifestyle factors
Days 31-60: Technical Skill Development and Portfolio Creation
Week 5-6: Certification and formal education
Industry certifications: Begin CCNA, JNCIA, or other relevant networking certifications
Vendor training: Complete training courses from major equipment vendors (Cisco, Juniper, Ericsson)
Continuing education: Enroll in telecommunications engineering courses or certificate programs
Professional development: Join IEEE Communications Society and other professional organizations
Week 7-8: Portfolio development and practical experience
Design projects: Create sample network designs demonstrating technical capabilities and design thinking
Technical documentation: Develop examples of engineering drawings, specifications, and technical reports
Problem-solving examples: Document analytical approaches to network design challenges and optimization
Technology research: Prepare technical presentations on emerging technologies and implementation strategies
Days 61-90: Strategic Application and Career Launch
Week 9-10: Application strategy and networking
Resume optimization: Create network engineering-focused resume emphasizing technical capabilities and project experience
Portfolio presentation: Develop professional portfolio showcasing design work and technical expertise
Network building: Connect with telecommunications professionals through LinkedIn and industry events
Target applications: Submit applications to 15-20 positions across carriers, contractors, and equipment vendors
Week 11-12: Interview preparation and negotiation
Technical interview preparation: Practice network design problems, technical concepts, and troubleshooting scenarios
Behavioral interviews: Prepare examples demonstrating analytical thinking, collaboration, and project management
Salary negotiation: Research compensation benchmarks and prepare for total package evaluation
Career launch planning: Develop first 90 days strategy for new role success and advancement positioning
Critical Success Factors Most Engineering Candidates Overlook
After analyzing successful network design engineering career transitions, several critical factors distinguish systematic success from random application attempts.
Business context understanding: Successful network engineers understand how telecommunications companies generate revenue and compete rather than focusing solely on technical implementation details.
Customer perspective development: Learning to translate business requirements into technical solutions rather than designing networks that satisfy technical elegance without business value.
Project lifecycle comprehension: Understanding network design as part of larger infrastructure projects involving coordination across multiple disciplines and stakeholders.
Continuous learning commitment: Telecommunications technology evolves rapidly requiring ongoing education and adaptation rather than expecting static expertise to remain valuable.
Communication skill development: Technical expertise must be combined with ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders and collaborate effectively across functions.
Common Mistakes That Destroy Network Engineering Career Potential
Understanding what doesn't work prevents costly mistakes during career transition and early professional development.
Over-specialization in declining technologies: Focusing exclusively on legacy technologies without developing expertise in emerging areas like 5G, SDN, or cloud integration.
Academic focus without practical application: Emphasizing theoretical knowledge without demonstrating ability to solve real-world network design problems and business challenges.
Vendor-specific tunnel vision: Limiting expertise to single equipment vendor rather than understanding multi-vendor environments and technology-agnostic design principles.
Individual contributor mindset: Avoiding leadership and project management responsibilities limiting advancement to senior technical roles without management opportunities.
Geographic inflexibility: Limiting opportunities to specific metropolitan areas rather than considering diverse markets with strong telecommunications infrastructure investment.
Why Smart Engineers Choose Network Design Over Software Development
Network design engineering represents a fundamental shift from software development facing automation and global competition to essential infrastructure careers that require local expertise and physical implementation.
The choice: Continue competing for software development positions vulnerable to offshoring and automation, or systematically build careers designing physical infrastructure that requires local expertise and cannot be replicated remotely.
The timing: 5G deployment and network modernization create unprecedented opportunities for engineers willing to develop telecommunications expertise rather than chasing saturated software development markets.
Most importantly: Network design careers provide something that software development cannot: direct control over essential infrastructure that affects millions of users rather than hoping abstract code will generate sustainable career advancement.
The telecommunications infrastructure enabling America's digital economy needs capable engineers who understand network architecture, emerging technologies, and systematic infrastructure development. Telecommunications companies reward engineers who focus on reliable design excellence and measurable infrastructure improvements.
Your engineering capabilities and analytical thinking position you perfectly for network design opportunities that provide both immediate income improvement and long-term career advancement through telecommunications specialization.
Success comes from systematic evaluation of infrastructure engineering opportunities and strategic career positioning—whether you're pursuing network design advancement or applying engineering frameworks for wealth building in other essential infrastructure industries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Network Design Engineering Careers
Do you need a specific engineering degree for network design positions? While electrical, telecommunications, or computer engineering degrees are preferred, many successful network engineers have degrees in related fields like computer science or mathematics. Industry certifications and demonstrated technical competency often matter more than specific degree titles.
How quickly can you advance from entry-level to senior network engineering roles? With systematic skill development and strong performance, engineers typically advance from entry-level to senior roles within 4-6 years. High performers who develop specialized expertise in emerging technologies like 5G can accelerate this timeline significantly.
Are network design careers stable during economic downturns? Telecommunications infrastructure is essential and typically maintains investment during recessions as companies optimize existing networks rather than expanding. Network engineers often have more job security than software developers during economic stress.
Can you work remotely as a network design engineer? Many network design tasks can be performed remotely, including planning, modeling, and documentation. However, site visits and coordination with field teams require some travel. Most positions offer hybrid arrangements with 2-3 days remote work.
What's the difference between network design and network operations engineering? Network design focuses on planning and architecting new infrastructure, while network operations manages existing systems. Design engineers typically earn higher compensation and have more advancement opportunities toward technical leadership roles.
How important are vendor certifications like Cisco or Juniper? Vendor certifications demonstrate technical competency and are often required for advancement. However, multi-vendor expertise is increasingly valuable as networks become more diverse and technology-agnostic design approaches gain importance.
What programming skills are valuable for network design engineers? Python programming for network automation, SQL for database management, and basic scripting capabilities enhance career prospects. However, programming is supportive rather than primary compared to network architecture and design expertise.
Can network design engineers transition to other engineering fields? Network design skills transfer well to system engineering, cloud architecture, and cybersecurity roles. The analytical and problem-solving capabilities develop well-rounded engineering expertise applicable across technology industries.
How does artificial intelligence affect network design engineering careers? AI enhances rather than replaces network design engineering by automating routine tasks and enabling more sophisticated optimization. Engineers who understand AI applications in networking have competitive advantages and premium earning potential.
What's the career progression beyond senior network engineering roles? Advanced career paths include Principal Engineer, Network Architect, Technical Director, and Chief Technology Officer roles. Many senior engineers also transition to consulting, vendor technical roles, or startup technical leadership positions.
Ready to Fast-Track Your Path to Six-Figure Income Through Strategic Career Advancement?
Whether you're targeting network design engineering positions or advancing in your current technical career, the fastest route to six-figure income starts with understanding how advancement systems actually work rather than how they're supposed to work.
The Job Rubric Method applies the same systematic thinking to corporate advancement that successful telecommunications engineers use for network architecture and career progression. When I used this strategic approach, my case was so compelling that leadership recommended skipping me ahead two levels.
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How to apply systematic frameworks to career advancement for accelerated results in any engineering field—including emerging infrastructure technologies like telecommunications
The strategic approach that works whether you're entering network design or optimizing advancement in traditional engineering careers
Strategic frameworks for building six-figure income through performance-based advancement across multiple technical industries
Why understanding advancement systems (not just technical expertise) drives success in both infrastructure and corporate engineering environments
Step-by-step methods for creating promotion opportunities regardless of your current engineering background
[Get The Double-Promotion Guide]
Success comes from developing systematic approaches to both technical mastery and strategic career positioning—whether in telecommunications engineering, traditional technical careers, or other high-growth infrastructure specializations.
The most successful engineers understand that technical expertise and systematic career planning aren't mutually exclusive—they're complementary strategies for building sustainable six-figure income in America's most essential infrastructure industries.