Professional training needs in the environmental area in Ecuador

This paper assesses the need for fourth level training in the area of environmental engineering in the province of Manabí, Ecuador, based on the objectives proposed in the National Development Plan (2017-2021). The analysis was carried out through the application of a survey aimed at 1,000 professionals linked to environmental activities in the public and private sectors. The results obtained demonstrate the pertinence in the development of a research master's degree that responds to the needs and demands of the region and the country, which must develop scientific research in the fields of environmental and health engineering; conduct environmental feasibility studies of processes and projects; design, direct and execute water and wastewater sampling processes; as well as new technologies for the treatment of solid and liquid waste and the optimization of inputs, products and processes.