BUILDING SKILLS FOR SUSTAINABLE ENGINEERING: A PATH TO CARBON EMISSION REDUCTION

Abstract

Climate change necessitates a skilled workforce to implement sustainable solutions, particularly in high-emission sectors like buildings. However, a gap exists between industry demands for sustainability skills and workforce preparedness. This study examines the alignment of educational practices with industry needs, identifying critical skill gaps and proposing strategies for integration into higher education. For this research, a qualitative approach was used, with structured interviews conducted with fifteen (15) experts in sustainability-related fields. Findings reveal that technical (e.g., life cycle analysis, energy efficiency) and soft skills (e.g., communication, leadership) are essential. Systems thinking and regulatory knowledge were particularly emphasized. Experts advocated for stronger academic-industry partnerships, integrated learning, and real-world training opportunities. Through the interviews, thirteen out of fifteen experts believed that the students need to understand how technical design should focus on the system as a whole.