Predicting Career Optimism of Civil Engineers

Delivery of infrastructure in Australia is increasingly challenged by shortages professional civil engineers. It therefore imperative to investigate their career optimism. Through the lens theory work adjustment, we expand upon previous research on this topic. We identify significance occupational and organizational values needs, commitment, emphasizing both individual factors. From a nationwide survey Australian engineers, our logistic regression models mechanisms that predict engineer’s increasing or decreasing optimism, which are distinguished through constructs Person, Environment, Adjustment between them. Our findings show optimism depends years experience gender. Optimistic male engineers report affective but declines with experience. nonmale continuing commitment Predictors an early-career include status value responsibility ability adjust within environment. Therefore, organizations must continue build current practices supporting provide flexibility, understand commitment. Practical management implications provision roles offering autonomy, responsibility, support returning from breaks, providing change training.