THE IMPORTANCE OF CAREER COMPETENCIES IN WORKRELATED EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITIES FOR ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJORS

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields have become increasingly important to the US economy, and many states have identified these fields as critical for economic competitiveness. Employers are challenged to find workers with the appropriate hard--technical--and soft skills, e.g., oral and written communications. Work-related experiential activities (WREAs), such as internships, job shadows, or cooperative education experiences (co-ops), have been suggested as one tool to support students in developing the kinds of skills needed for employment. Acquisition of professional knowledge as well as technical and communication skills are essential to successful employment offers, and NACE's career readiness competencies provide a helpful understanding of the ideas related to career readiness, employability, and life careers. From the lens of social cognitive career theory (SCCT), WREAs offer an ideal opportunity to combine interests and experiences that can influence one's career interests, attitudes, and preferences.