Sustainability And Skill Alignment In Civil Engineering: Employment Outcomes Of Bsce Graduates In Mountain Province State Polytechnic College

Abstract

This study investigates the professional trajectories of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) graduates from Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) - Tadian Campus, spanning the academic years 2010-2019. The research explores the diverse motivations for pursuing a BSCE degree, including personal passion, social influences, and economic factors. The study highlights that many graduates are driven by a deep interest in civil engineering, with course accessibility, family influence, and career prospects also playing crucial roles in their decision-making. The employment status of graduates reveals that most are employed, with a substantial portion in regular or permanent positions, while others hold contractual roles providing varied project experience. Unemployment is attributed to limited job opportunities, lack of experience, and personal decisions like further education or family commitments. Graduates' initial job roles span civil engineering and non-engineering fields, reflecting the versatility of their skills. Competencies gained during College, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and IT skills, are highly relevant in the professional sphere. The study also finds that demographic factors like Age and civil status correlate with employment status, while gender does not significantly influence employment outcomes despite existing imbalances. Recommendations include fostering partnerships with local agencies and firms, enhancing networking opportunities, and integrating sustainability principles into the curriculum. Promoting gender diversity and reviewing the BSCE program curriculum are also suggested to align with industry needs. A comprehensive methodology involving data collection through the Graduate Tracer Survey (GTS) and a rigorous demographic and employment data analysis supports these findings. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve graduate employability and career development.