Impact Assessment of Industrial Performance, Efficiency, and Productivity of NEUST Mechanical Engineering Graduates

This study evaluates the industrial performance, efficiency, and productivity of Mechanical Engineering graduates from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) and examines the influence of academic preparation on these outcomes. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from graduates employed in industrial sectors through structured questionnaires. Results revealed that graduates demonstrate high levels of technical competence, work quality, efficiency, and productivity, indicating strong workplace readiness. Academic preparation was found to have a significant relationship with and predictive influence on technical competence, as well as on efficiency and productivity. However, it showed no significant effect on work quality, suggesting that this aspect is more influenced by workplace experience, supervision, and organizational practices. The findings support Human Capital Theory and Systems Theory, emphasizing that workplace performance is shaped by both academic and experiential factors. Despite limitations in the analysis of On-the-Job Training (OJT) due to data constraints, the study highlights its importance in developing practical skills. Overall, the study underscores the need for stronger industry–academe collaboration, enhanced practical training, and continuous curriculum improvement to ensure alignment with evolving industry demands and to further enhance graduate performance.