Understanding The Current Work And Values Of Professional Engineers: Implications For Engineering Education

To better meet the needs of the 21st century workplace, engineering education must more fully understand the current work and values of professional engineers. However, little formal research has been done in this area. In this study we interviewed practicing engineers (n=45), surveyed engineers and individuals with engineering backgrounds (n=280), and conducted a case study of one engineering firm. We gained insights on 1. what engineers see as notable and as exemplifying engineering in their work, 2. what aspects of their work they value most, and 3. what they would like to be different in their work. Specifically, we found that engineers see their work as using specialized knowledge to solve problems in a constantly evolving, local and/or global, business context. Engineers value 1. solving a problem to satisfy a client need, 2. creatively applying their knowledge, 3. making or saving money for their firm, 4. benefiting local or global communities, and 5. learning new skills and concepts. Engineers expressed frustration that their work involves a greater focus on managerial and business processes than the tangible engineering of solutions, and that there is insufficient emphasis on developing new skills. These findings indicate that engineering education should ensure that students work in groups to creatively apply their knowledge to actual clients’ problems and develop significant business and communication skills.