Influential Factors in the Career Decision-Making of Gen Z in Engineering Education

Abstract

ContextGeneration Z individuals have a diverse and socially conscious cohort that values inclusivity, equality, ambition, and adaptability with a strong focus on career success. While numerous studies highlight the accomplishments of Gen Z across various domains such as technology, entrepreneurship, research and innovation. Very little research is done focusing on the career decision-making process of Gen Z. Purpose or GoalThe purpose of the study is to exclusively addresses the gap on how parameters like passion and personal interest, gender bias, family and friends influence, career growth opportunities, and role models/mentors influence the career decisions of GEN Z, aiming to offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics of career decisionmaking and empower individuals to make informed and fulfilling choices for their careers. MethodsBased on these five themes, a survey instrument was developed and administered to engineering students at an autonomous college in South India in the fall of 2023. A total of 260 responses were collected, and after data cleaning, 253 participants were included in the testing dataset. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to ascertain the survey instrument's factor structure, resulting in the confirmation of the hypothesized five factors. OutcomesThe analysis revealed five factors as hypothesized with a minimum and maximum loading of 0.35 and 0.61. The internal consistency reliability index Cronbach's α ranged from 0.67 to 0.92, representing a strong consistency. ConclusionThis survey instrument can be used in any education institutions to comprehensively capture the elements/factors that exert an influence on the career-decision making process of Generation Z. The insights gathered from this survey can serve as valuable input for shaping policies and interventions focused on mitigating gender biases and stereotypes, improving career guidance, and fostering environments that facilitate both personal and professional development.