Abstract "Recent federal investments in infrastructure necessitate a surge in transportation engineering graduates, yet recruitment and retention pose challenges due to mismatches between job supply and degree pursuits, compensation, benefits, and work-life balance. Research by the Northeast Transportation Workforce Center and National Transportation Career Pathways Initiative highlights these issues, but gaps remain in DOT strategies. Moreover, there is a pressing need for diversity in the engineering workforce to reflect the US population’s demographics. This research aligns with the MATC focus on education and workforce development, aiming to enhance workforce diversity, which is crucial for inclusive transportation planning and safety.
The purpose of this study is to explore the age gap within state transportation engineering jobs. The following research question will be addressed: In what ways do state departments of transportation in the midwestern United States attract or detract new engineers to state transportation engineering jobs based on current policy structures?"
Description "The proposed research project addresses the critical need for increasing the number of graduating engineers who pursue transportation careers, given recent federal infrastructure investments. The project identifies a significant knowledge gap in how State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) can enhance recruitment and retention, particularly focusing on increasing workforce diversity to reflect the diverse US population. The research aligns with the Mid-America Transportation Center (MATC) thematic thrust areas and USDOT strategic goals, emphasizing education, workforce development, and equitable transportation systems.
The study employs a sequential exploratory mixed methods research design. It begins with qualitative interviews and focus groups with students and recent graduates to understand their job search priorities and perceptions of transportation agencies. These insights will shape a subsequent quantitative survey distributed to a broader student population across the Midwest. Overall, the research aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of factors influencing young engineers' decisions to join or leave state transportation agencies.
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Objective This research directly addresses the USDOT strategic goal to “create a world-class organization with the talent and capacity to guide and oversee the largest investment in the nation’s transportation infrastructure since the Eisenhower Administration.” By focusing on workforce diversity, the project also supports “a more just and equitable transportation system” and “investing in transportation safety” across travel modes by supporting diversity in workforce demographics, travel mode choice, and other dimensions.
Impacts/Benefits "1. Enhanced Recruitment and Retention: The project's findings will provide actionable recommendations tostate DOTs, helping them attract and retain young engineers more effectively.
2. Workforce Diversity: By emphasizing diversity, the research will contribute to a more inclusive workforce,improving transportation planning and design through diverse perspectives.
3. Improved Engineering Education: Insights from the study will help civil engineering departments atMATC-affiliated institutions tailor their curricula to better align with the interests and needs of studentsand transportation employers.
4. Strengthened Transportation Infrastructure: By addressing talent shortages and enhancing workforcecapabilities, the project supports the successful completion of infrastructure projects funded by recentfederal investments.
5. Broader Regional Benefits: The outcomes will particularly benefit Midwest states, fostering a robustpipeline of engineering talent and supporting regional economic and infrastructural development."