The attributes of future 2030 engineers in Qatar for innovation and knowledge based economy

Abstract

Recent studies emphasize the needs of a wider set of skills engineers require than ever thought. These studies continue to emphasize that technical content knowledge and competencies are essential for any engineer; however, in addition to being well-grounded in mathematics and science, 21st century engineers should be well-shaped in broader knowledge-base and diverse personal/ interpersonal key-skills. Qatar is increasingly investing in knowledge development within its boundary, either through home grown manpower or through collaborative efforts from research centres from around the world. Interviews with students, faculty, and representatives from the major industrial sectors in Qatar have been conducted. Quantitative analysis relied on comprehensive survey with multiple stakeholders from industry and academia, while qualitative analysis is constructed based on content analysis and grounded theory approaches. In this paper, authors report on the empirical study investigating the needs of skills in engineering in Qatar in the future for a knowledge based economy. Gaps have been identified, conceptualization is developed, and recommendations have been drawn upon.