Is It Unprofessional for Engineers to Study During Work Hours?
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Chapter 1: Understanding Training vs. Studying
When I began my journey in programming, I noticed a common misconception among engineers regarding the distinction between training and studying. This was especially prevalent among those transitioning from humanities to IT, often leading to a disconnect with the technical aspects of their roles. Engineers stationed at client sites for extended periods frequently accumulated only business knowledge, showing little interest in advancing their IT skills.
This trend appears more pronounced among individuals less committed to self-improvement. Training and studying, while related, serve different purposes. Training equips employees with the necessary skills to fulfill their roles, which is a fundamental expectation of any organization. In contrast, studying involves acquiring knowledge that may not be immediately applicable but could be beneficial in the future. Learning is proactive and becomes urgent only when immediate application is required in the workplace.
From an engineer's perspective, the expectation is to provide technological expertise to clients and employers. It's vital to recognize that studying during work hours can be perceived as unprofessional. Engineers who prioritize acquiring immediate skills during work time may be viewed as lacking the capacity to perform their roles effectively. This lack of self-awareness can lead to perceptions of unprofessionalism, and companies are justified in providing training rather than study time.
Section 1.1: Company Perspectives on Employee Development
It's common to hear grievances about a lack of corporate support for personal study, with some arguing that study time should be included in work responsibilities. However, I strongly disagree. From a corporate standpoint, it's reasonable for companies to refrain from offering study opportunities. The work of undertrained employees can diminish added value, jeopardizing business continuity. Therefore, management's investment in training—rather than study—becomes crucial.
As a manager, there's a reluctance to pay high salaries to individuals who lack the ability to perform assigned tasks efficiently. Companies do wish for employees to engage in study; however, the uncertain outcomes of such investments make them less favorable compared to training initiatives.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of On-the-Job Training (OJT)
On-the-job training (OJT) is designed to enable employees to acquire the skills needed to earn their salaries promptly. Thus, it is essential not to conflate OJT with studying. Misunderstanding this distinction can hinder your professional development.
Section 1.2: The Importance of Self-Directed Learning
In light of recent work style reforms, many companies claim to minimize overtime. However, this often masks the reality of unpaid or unnecessary overtime, which can impede personal growth. Engineers must take charge of their schedules, prioritizing study over excessive work hours. If you find yourself in an environment that rewards unnecessary overtime, it may be time to reconsider your position. Investing your time wisely is crucial to avoid becoming stagnant in your career.
Rapid advancements in the IT sector demand continuous learning. With the guarantee of lifetime employment fading, especially for engineers, the necessity to cultivate an environment conducive to study becomes paramount.
Chapter 2: Creating Opportunities for Personal Development
This video discusses the challenges engineers face in maintaining their roles and the unfortunate reality that many may never work as engineers despite their qualifications.
In this video, the speaker addresses the reasons why pursuing a career in mechanical engineering may not be the best choice for everyone.
Section 2.1: Making Time for Study
Some may argue they lack free time due to demanding work schedules, but it's essential to evaluate whether your work is genuinely productive. Reflect on how you utilize your downtime. Many individuals find ways to study despite their busy schedules, so consider how to carve out your own study time.
Section 2.2: The Value of Self-Assessment
For those uncertain about their next steps, I suggest starting by writing a resume. This process forces you to quantify and qualify your experiences, providing a clear picture of your skills and contributions. Those who can effectively articulate their experiences often outshine their peers, revealing the importance of behind-the-scenes effort.
In conclusion, I have spent four years developing products at my company, gaining exposure to various processes. Despite the demanding environment, I dedicated my spare time to studying diverse topics, enabling me to enhance my work and future career prospects. I hope this article encourages engineers to reassess their approach to learning and contribute positively to the IT industry.