Transversal competencies of electrical and computing engineers considering market demand

Abstract

We present a method to identity and analyze the expectations of the current job market in electrical and computer engineering for transversal competencies, also referred as soft skills, with a focus on innovation. We have used job ads extracted from the IEEE Job Sites, identified and quantified the transversal competencies demanded by the market. The key identified skills are communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and analysis skills. We also present reflections about the relations between the identified key transversal competencies with active learning approaches in engineering education. Through analyzing the main soft skills demanded by the market in innovation in specifically in electrical and computer engineering, the authors reflect on some implications for the formation process of engineers. With these outcomes, it is possible to reflect how the engineering schools can stimulate the development of these competencies helping the student apply the technical knowledge and skills while also activating communication, teamwork multidisciplinary and analytical skills.