Beyond Technical Skills: Competency Framework for Engineers in the Digital Transformation Era

Nádya Zanin Muzulon (), Luis Mauricio Resende, Gislaine Camila Lapasini Leal and Joseane Pontes
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Nádya Zanin Muzulon: Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Federal University of Technology-Paraná, Ponta Grossa 84016-210, PR, Brazil
Luis Mauricio Resende: Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Federal University of Technology-Paraná, Ponta Grossa 84016-210, PR, Brazil
Gislaine Camila Lapasini Leal: Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil
Joseane Pontes: Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Federal University of Technology-Paraná, Ponta Grossa 84016-210, PR, Brazil

Societies, 2025, vol. 15, issue 8, 1-23

Abstract: In the context of digital transformation and Industry 4.0, the engineering profession is evolving rapidly, demanding new skill sets to maintain employability and support career development. This study identifies the competencies engineers must acquire to meet these challenges, addressing concerns from employers who perceive graduates as underprepared for real-world demands. A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, using the Methodi Ordinatio technique to select and rank 59 peer-reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2024. The review identified 47 key competencies, which were organized into a comprehensive framework of seven dimensions: 4 transversal, 9 social, 15 personal, 4 cognitive, 7 digital, 3 green, and 5 technical skills. The results highlight that, while technical expertise remains essential, soft skills—such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and adaptability—are increasingly critical for success in the digital era. The proposed framework offers insights for curriculum development, corporate training, and policymaking, contributing to aligning education and professional development with the evolving demands of Industry 4.0. Future research will focus on the empirical validation of the framework to reinforce its applicability across academic and professional settings.

Keywords: engineering; competencies; skills; digital transformation; Industry 4.0; professional development; occupational landscape (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A13 A14 P P0 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 Z1 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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