Addressing Generic Skills Gap for Future Civil Engineers in The 4th Industrial Revolution

Abstract

The profession of civil engineers is listed among the 20 critical occupations ideal for the economic development of the country in facing the modern technological influx of the 4^th Industrial Revolution (4IR). In order to prepare future civil engineers for the challenges of the 4IR, they need to be equipped with relevant generic skills, especially during their undergraduates studies. However, existing generic skills embedded in the civil engineering curriculum may not be relevant in the context of the 4IR. Thus, this study was conducted to compare the existing engineering skills highlighted by Engineering Accreditation Council with the 4IR skills. The results from this study revealed seven generic skills that were identified as gaps in both sets of skills. These skills include creativity, originality and initiative; critical thinking and analysis; complex problem solving; emotional intelligence; leadership and social influence. The findings from this study could mark the beginning of further research in this field, aimed at preparing civil engineers with the relevant skills needed for industry demands.