A recent study sheds light on the alignment—or lack thereof—between the competencies of vocational high school graduates specializing in drawing technique building (TGB) and the skills demanded by the construction industry. Conducted by M Agphin Ramadhan, an alumnus of PTB FT UNJ, the research focuses on graduates from four state vocational high schools in Jakarta: SMKN 26, SMKN 35, SMKN 52, and SMKN 56. This inquiry is particularly relevant as the construction sector continues to evolve, requiring a workforce that is not only skilled but also adaptable to new technologies and methodologies.
The research involved a purposive sampling of 40 graduates from 2010 and 2011, and it utilized three distinct instruments to evaluate competencies. The first instrument assessed basic competencies as outlined in the national curriculum for vocational high schools. The second and third instruments focused on self-assessments by graduates and evaluations by industry managers, respectively. The findings revealed that while graduates excelled in drawing, software usage, and soft skills, there remained a significant gap in their numerical skills, which are crucial for various aspects of construction work.
Ramadhan stated, “Our findings highlight a critical area for improvement. While graduates possess strong drawing and software skills, the construction industry increasingly requires a workforce that can also perform complex calculations and analyses.” This gap could pose challenges for employers looking to fill roles that demand a comprehensive skill set, potentially stalling projects and impacting overall productivity.
The implications of this study extend beyond individual competencies; they touch upon the broader landscape of the construction industry. As companies strive for efficiency and innovation, the need for a workforce that is well-rounded in both technical and analytical skills becomes paramount. The study underscores the importance of integrating more robust mathematical training within vocational curricula, thereby ensuring that graduates are not only competent in their specialty but also equipped to meet the diverse demands of the industry.
With the construction sector facing ongoing challenges related to labor shortages and skill mismatches, addressing these gaps in education could enhance the employability of graduates and, in turn, bolster the industry’s growth. As Ramadhan notes, “By aligning educational outcomes with industry needs, we can create a more capable workforce that drives the construction sector forward.”
This pivotal research, published in ‘Jurnal Pensil’ (translated as ‘Pencil Journal’), serves as a call to action for educators and industry stakeholders alike. It highlights the urgent need for collaboration between vocational schools and construction companies to ensure that the next generation of workers is prepared to meet the evolving challenges of the field. For more insights from Ramadhan, you can visit his profile at PTB FT UNJ.