Curricular feedback from technology-based workforce: Assessment of soft skills among CTU graduates

In today's technology-driven industries, the demands placed on employees have become increasingly complex. Beyond mere technical proficiency, they are required to possess a diverse and dynamic skill set that empowers them to assess challenges, identify innovative solutions, and adapt strategies to overcome obstacles in diverse contexts. The purpose of this study was to analyze the experiences of Cebu Technological University (CTU) graduates employed in construction, design, and engineering industries in terms of their acquired soft skills. This exploratory-qualitative study purposively sampled 16 CTU graduates currently employed as engineers, architects, and drafters. Interviews were conducted to extract the narrative from CTU graduates about their experience while working in their fields. Narrative analysis indicated that leadership was the most essential soft skills that the CTU graduates should learn. CTU graduates are expected to cooperate with colleagues, create plans and designs, respond to client requests, and fulfill deadlines successfully. Leadership, innovative thinking, proactiveness, and communication enable them to take delegate duties and motivate team members to achieve common goals, consequently increasing their overall effectiveness and productivity at work. CTU graduates advocate for extensive industry collaboration to enhance internship programs and ensure alignment with academic coursework. Providing students with hands-on experience would expose them to theoretical learning, and opportunities for creativity and problem-solving, the curriculum can better prepare students for success in their chosen fields.