From Engineering toManagement : Factors affecting engineer's transition processtoward management roles

Abstract: The transition from engineering roles to management positions is a critical phase in engineers' career development. However, this transition process often presents significant challenges and necessitates specific personal characteristics, skills, and motivators. This study aims to identify the impact of these factors on the transition from engineering to management roles and investigate their influence on engineers' career development. Employing a qualitative approach, this study utilizes thematic analysis to analyze data derived from in-depth interviews with eight engineers transitioned to management roles. Transcribed interviews were examined to recognize key themes related to the research questions. Thematic analysis uncovered three central themes linked to the transition process: personal characteristics, skills, and motivators. Personal characteristics encompassed leadership, communication, and adaptability. Skills comprised technical and business acumen, project management, and people management. Motivators encompassed career advancement, financial rewards, and personal growth. The analysis also revealed prevalent challenges encountered during the transition process, including adapting to new roles, and managing workload demands. This study emphasizes the critical importance of effective career planning and development to facilitate engineers' successful transition into management roles. The findings suggest that transitioning from engineering roles to management positions necessitates a distinct set of personal characteristics, skills, and appropriate motivators. By actively cultivating these attributes, engineers can overcome the challenges encountered during the transition process. Future research is recommended to explore the efficacy of diverse training and development programs aimed at equipping engineers with the requisite skills and characteristics essential for a successful transition into management roles.