Addressing Proficiency Gaps in Future Skills Between Employers and Learners Through Data Visualization

Area of Science:

• Construction Management
• Digitalization in Construction
• Workforce Development

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digitalization and remote work in the construction industry, disrupting traditional practices.
• These shifts have led to increased costs, revenue loss, payment delays, and disputes, necessitating an adaptation of the workforce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the skill proficiency of young engineers (learners) in the construction industry.
• To identify future skill requirements from employers' perspectives in a digitalized world.
• To bridge the gap between learner proficiency and employer expectations for future workforce needs.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative approach using online surveys targeting employers and young engineers-to-be.
• Two surveys, 'Future Skills-What does the future look like for young engineers?' and 'WLA Survey in "Future Skills"-The Proficiency Analyses of Young Engineers-to-be', were conducted.
• Data analysis involved content analysis with data visualizations using Microsoft Power BI.

Main Results:

• Significant discrepancies exist between employers' and students' perceptions of critical future skills.
• Employers expect higher proficiency in key areas, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), problem-solving, and presentation skills.
• High satisfaction was noted in 'Training Structure' and 'Training and Development' by both groups.

Conclusions:

• Young engineers require enhanced technical and interpersonal skills to meet future industry demands.
• Addressing the identified skill gaps through targeted training and development is crucial for workforce readiness.
• Workplace Learning and Assessment (WLA) can enhance student preparedness and support industry transition.