Best Before Forty: The Shelf Life of an Engineer

Abstract:

Engineers leave their profession in significant numbers once they reach their mid-40s. The tacit knowledge leaving with these experienced people should concern their managers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on mature engineering graduates both currently in the profession and those who have left. Factors were found that offer explanations for the high attrition rate. Lack of leadership to effectively guide these engineers contributed to their attrition. Managers of engineers could use this information to help them control a level of experience appropriate for their organization and help provide better guidance if they wish for better retention of mature engineers.

Keywords::

• Knowledge
• Career
• Experience
• Attrition