A Comparison of Industrial and Academic Perceptions of Quality Control Education

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of both industry professionals and faculty members of technology-based programs concerning the preparedness of recent graduates as they began a quality related position. To gain this information, surveys were administered among managers and technical leaders in industry and compared with surveys of faculty members from four-year industrial technology and engineering technology programs. Recent graduates were evaluated with regard to both theoretical knowledge and applied skills. By analyzing survey results, recent literature, and in-depth conversations with industry professionals, recommendations are made for improving quality control curricula and better serving industry needs. (Contains 3 figures and 1 table.)