Employer Perspectives on Project Management Effectiveness: An Engineering Management Analysis of BSME 2019 Graduates' Contributions to Engineering Projects

Abstract

This study investigates employer perspectives on the project management effectiveness of BSME 2019 graduates in the context of engineering management. As the demand for effective project management skills in engineering projects grows, it is essential to understand how well recent graduates are prepared to meet these demands. While the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) program provides a strong technical foundation, the application of project management principles in real-world settings is crucial for career success. This research examines the contributions of BSME 2019 graduates in managing engineering projects, focusing on key aspects such as project planning, communication, risk management, and resource allocation. A survey of employers was conducted to assess the graduates' performance and identify correlations between project management skills and successful project outcomes. The findings highlight strengths and areas for improvement in the graduates’ project management capabilities, offering recommendations for enhancing engineering curricula and training to better equip future engineers. This study contributes to the understanding of the role of engineering management in developing highly effective project managers and provides insights into how academic programs can better address industry needs.