Developing Leadership-Coupled Competencies for Engineering Preparatory Pathways: A Delphi Study of Industry Perspectives

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: Career and Technical Education Roundtable 1

Abstract

Leadership-coupled professional competencies that enhance teamwork and problem solving are in high demand from engineering professional organizations. However, contemporary research suggests that postsecondary engineering programs do not adequately prepare graduates in these areas (American Society for Engineering Education, 2015; Seemiller & Murray, 2013; Stephens & Rosch, 2015). Here, a Delphi study identified consensus regarding holistic leadership competencies for emerging engineers in the workplace. Consensus expert opinions generated 14 leadership-coupled competencies organized (post hoc) into three domains (Individual, Participatory, and Conceptual/Managerial) that the industry expects of all successful engineering graduates. Implications of the findings are discussed and suggestions for further research follow. These results reveal a complex definition of leadership that is indicative of the multidimensional nature of the engineering profession.

Authors

• Nicholas A. Clegorne, Kennesaw State University

• Denise R. Simmons, University of Florida