The future of talent (1) : the 2030 mobility engineers

In his influential work, "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions," Thomas Kuhn noted that those who drive fundamental innovations often come from fresh perspectives & with the automotive industry undergoing significant disruptions like electric, connected, and autonomous technologies, a paradigm shift is imminent. Innovators, as observed by Frans Johansson, thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, creating groundbreaking solutions. This article explores the essential skills for future mobility engineers, emphasizing the importance of broad, cross-domain learning.

Essential skills for mobility engineers.

While technical prowess remains crucial, success in the automotive industry demands a broader skill set. Beyond technical skills, cognitive, interpersonal, and intrapersonal abilities are increasingly vital. David Epstein's research : "Range: How Generalists triumph in a specialized world" suggests that generalists excel in complex and uncertain environments, advocating for a balance between depth and breadth of expertise. Mobility engineers must cultivate interdisciplinary skills to navigate the evolving landscape of connected, autonomous, shared, and electric (CASE) technologies.

Building cross-domain skills:

The future of mobility requires engineers to transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. The convergence of various technologies necessitates a holistic approach, incorporating insights from science, engineering, arts, and business management. Drawing from examples like Elon Musk, who mastered multiple domains, mobility engineers should aspire to develop deep expertise across different disciplines.

Learning trajectories for future skills:

A systematic approach to skill development is essential for aspiring mobility engineers. Over the course of undergraduate education, students should widen their horizons, evaluate industry interests, and gain practical experience through internships and cross-domain projects. By cultivating a diverse skill set and staying abreast of industry developments, individuals can prepare themselves for the dynamic landscape of future mobility technology.

Key takeaways on the engineers of 2030:

- Mobility engineers must possess cross-domain knowledge and skills to thrive in the future automotive industry.

- Building a unique combination of skills allows engineers to carve a niche in the evolving mobility technology space.

- Following a structured learning trajectory enables engineering students to adequately prepare for careers in the automotive industry.

- Customizing one's career by exploring adjacent domains and building cross-domain technical capabilities offers opportunities for innovation and impact in the field of mobility engineering.

In conclusion, the future of mobility engineering demands a shift in skill development. As the automotive industry evolves, engineers must diversify their skills, embrace interdisciplinary learning, and adapt to change. By staying updated and exploring new technologies, mobility engineers can shape the future of transportation. Aspiring engineers should prioritize holistic skill development to lead innovation in automotive technology.

In conclusion, the future of mobility engineering demands a shift in skill development. As the automotive industry evolves, engineers must diversify their skills, embrace interdisciplinary learning, and adapt to change. By staying updated and exploring new technologies, mobility engineers can shape the future of transportation. Aspiring engineers should prioritize holistic skill development to lead innovation in automotive technology.