Improving Industry Readiness: Insights from a Pilot Study of Biomedical Engineering Program

Abstract

The competency of biomedical engineering graduates plays a critical role in ensuring industry readiness and meeting the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. This pilot study evaluates the reliability and validity of an assessment instrument designed to measure the competencies of biomedical engineering students. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 30 students to examine their technical competencies across six domains: theory, operation, safety, servicing, repair, and management. Reliability analysis yielded high Cronbach’s alpha values (ranging from 0.739 to 0.932), confirming the instrument’s consistency in assessing industry-related skills. Findings reveal that while students demonstrate strong theoretical knowledge, there is a need for enhanced hands-on training, practical exposure to medical devices, and alignment between academic preparation and industry expectations. This study underscores the importance of refining industrial training modules to better equip students for roles in the maintenance, repair, planning, and procurement of biomedical equipment. The validated assessment framework provides a foundation for broader research on competency development and its application ability to other engineering discipline.