Abstract:
This research aims to study the skills that need to be developed for engineers and examine the related factors and methods for developing these skills to propose in order to provide the guidelines of skill development for engineers at ABC Company Limited. The research is qualitative research, employing non-probability sampling with a purposive sampling method. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 26 participants, consisting of 23 engineers at various levels, including Senior Engineers and Engineers, as well as 3 managers from human resource management and project management departments. The research instrument used was a set of in-depth interview questions, which included personal factors of the key informants, questions about the skills of engineers, methods for developing engineering skills, and suggestions for the development of engineering skills at ABC Company Limited. The data was then analyzed using thematic analysis. The research findings indicate that essential skills for engineers include knowledge and expertise in the engineering field, communication skills, language skills, and teamwork skills. High-potential engineers should also possess management skills, the ability to make informed and strategic decisions, leadership skills, and innovation development skills. Factors that promote the development of engineers' skills include foundational engineering knowledge, work experience, support from the company, attitudes and support from supervisors, and the working environment. Conversely, obstacles to skill development for engineers include training that does not align with necessary skills, training that emphasizes theory over practical application, and differences in foundational knowledge and work experience. Guidelines to develop engineers' skills include internal and external training, hands-on practice, site visits and seminars, self-directed learning through research and completing assigned tasks, collaboration with other departments, the use of a mentorship system, biannual performance reviews, and career advancement counseling.