Analysis of gaps in the training of engineers in relation to international standards: The case of industrial engineering students in Chile

Globalization has redefined engineering education. New engineers must use their knowledge to improve the quality of life and well-being of those communities impacted by their work, so their training must meet international standards to ensure success. The Washington Accord sets the criteria for competent and future-ready engineering graduates, emphasizing lifelong learning, problem-solving, research, engineering practices, and digital skills. However, studies reveal disparities between current engineering education and the evolving needs of the field. This study aims to identify perceptions held by industrial engineering students, graduates, and faculty members at a private university in Chile on the existing gaps in their training, compared to the competencies outlined in the Washington Accord. Aiming to reduce these through a transformation in the teaching practice of industrial engineering in an Engineering School that has the largest engineering enrollment nationwide. The objective being to transform teaching practices and reduce these gaps through curriculum redesign, pedagogical approaches, and evaluation methods. A questionnaire-based study with quantitative analysis was conducted, with descriptive statistics and SPSS software. Results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the university's engineering training and provide a plan for incorporating the necessary skills to meet the standards set by the Washington Accord.