A proposed learning journey for the 21st century global engineering manager: an Australian perspective

Abstract

Engineering managers in the 21st century are operating in a very challenging environment compared to the 20th century, on which most current engineering management education is established. This will have implications for educators and relevant curriculum. This paper reflects and builds on a 2007 Australian investigation into the perspectives of CEOs on the learning journey of engineers from new graduates to CEOs. It discusses the implications of predicted changes in operating environments in the future years and its impact on engineering management education. This paper looks to propose firstly, a framework for curriculum revitalization, secondly, curriculum renewal through embedment and development of 21st century professional skill sets and in cases, aligned with personal attributes and motivation, thirdly, innovation in the method of delivery of the proposed curriculum, finally to consolidate the proposals into a learning journey model for the 21st century global engineering manager in the context of personal development, professional, and educational development. Benefits arising from this proposed model will be a learning journey that will better prepare and equip our future engineering managers to tackle new challenges in this new century.