2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

DUE Collaborative Research: Gateway or Gatekeeper: Understanding Why Students Choose Engineering Technology or Engineering and the Implications of This Choice - Phase 2

Presented at NSF Grantees Poster Session I

This poster paper presents findings from Phase 2 of an NSF-funded study investigating workforce development and academic/career pathways for students enrolled in engineering technology (ET) bachelor’s programs. Building on the qualitative insights from Phase 1 which explored student motivations, barriers, and career perceptions [1], Phase 2 adopts a quantitative approach using a structured survey instrument. The survey was designed to reflect the themes identified in Phase 1, enabling comparative analysis and broader generalizability across institutions in Phase 3.
Phase 2 engaged a sample of ET students from two academic institutions, collecting data on educational experiences, career aspirations, industry engagement, and perceptions of workforce readiness. This approach allowed the research team to validate and expand upon Phase 1 findings, while also uncovering new trends that may inform future interventions.
Preliminary results underscore the importance of experiential learning, industry-aligned curricula, and clearly defined career pathways in promoting student success. The data also reveal nuanced differences in student experiences based on institutional context, and program structure. These insights are critical for developing scalable strategies aligned with NSF’s goals of broadening participation and strengthening the STEM workforce.
This paper discusses the implications of Phase 2 findings for engineering technology education, offering recommendations for curriculum development, faculty engagement, and industry collaboration. It also outlines next steps for dissemination and future research, contributing to the national dialogue on effective workforce development in STEM education.

Authors

Dr. Lesley M Berhan The University of Toledo [biography]

Lesley Berhan is currently a Professor in the department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering at The University of Toledo. Her research in engineering education is centered on broadening participation, workforce development, and improving engineering formation, access, and readiness.
Dr. Anne M Lucietto http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0053-753X Purdue Polytechnic Institute, Purdue University – West Lafayette [biography]

Dr. Anne M. Lucietto has dedicated her research to advancing engineering technology education. She particularly emphasizes understanding the experiences, motivations, and career trajectories of engineering technology students. Her work contributes to developing effective academic pathways that align with workforce needs and student aspirations.

In the classroom, Dr. Lucietto employs an active learning approach that fosters engagement, collaboration, and the development of practical, hands-on skills. Her teaching style encourages students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, preparing them for success in both academic and professional environments.
Currently, she is exploring student perceptions of workforce readiness, industry engagement, and the impact of experiential learning opportunities on career development. Her research is part of a broader effort to inform curriculum design, faculty practices, and institutional strategies that support student success in STEM fields.

Dr. Lucietto’s commitment to student-centered education and her contributions to engineering technology research make her a valuable leader and a strong advocate for continuous improvement in STEM education.

Note

The full paper will be available to logged in and registered conference attendees once the conference starts on June 21, 2026, and to all visitors after the conference ends on June 24, 2026

« View session