Developing emotionally competent engineers for the ever-changing built environment

John Aliu, Douglas Aghimien, Clinton Aigbavboa, Andrew Ebekozien, Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke, Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, Opeoluwa Akinradewo, Olushola Akinshipe

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: As the world experiences a rapid rise in technological advances, the engineering profession will be required to become even more socially responsible and emotionally stable to be able to display higher levels of empathy towards the society they serve. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the key emotional competencies (ECs) that engineers need to possess to thrive in the construction industry after graduation. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research approach was conducted with close-ended questionnaires developed and administered to built environment professionals such as architects, construction managers, construction project managers, engineers and quantity surveyors. Findings: The results showed that the ability to display a positive outlook on life, understand one's emotional triggers, ability to display resilience in hard times, control one's emotions and ability to show compassion to others were the highest-ranked ECs. Further analysis revealed four clusters such as self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation and self-motivation. Practical implications: Practical guidance for higher education institutions is offered in terms of revamping and revisiting their engineering education curricula to develop these ECs to produce emotionally sound engineers for the ever-changing world of work. Originality/value: As the world of work becomes increasingly dynamic and diverse, engineers will be required to possess empathy, social skills and high levels of ECs to be able to seamlessly interact with fellow professionals as well as the society they serve.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2248-2263
Number of pages16
JournalEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management
Volume31
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 Jun 2024

Keywords

  • Built environment
  • Construction industry
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Engineer
  • Engineering
  • Fourth industrial revolution

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Building and Construction
  • General Business,Management and Accounting

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