Regarding obtaining civil engineering/structural engineering work:
I believe most engineering work from the public is related to homes and in my area is most often a result of contractors/builders advertising. The contractors/builders usually have an ongoing relationship with an engineer/building designer or an in-house group team. In California, advertising for professional services is somewhat controlled.
I have had a realtionship with several contractors for several years and do most of their design work. There has been a significant slowdown recently, however.
Stan Scholl, P.E.
Laguna Beach, CA