Developing competency-based engineering curriculum and certifications

The paper presents the framework and processes for the development of competency-based curriculum and certifications to enable members of the engineering community to demonstrate the behaviors, knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform their assignments at the highest levels of proficiency through a mix of experience, training, and education. The paper is based on the development of LOG 211, “Supportability Analysis” by the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) in meeting certification requirements for the Defense Acquisition Workforce as recommended by the Department of Defense (DOD) Reliability Improvement Working Group [1]. LOG 211 focuses on competencies and proficiencies in the areas of design interface, reliability and maintainability analysis and supportability analysis and uses gaming & simulation to enhance student learning as well as the development of a “capstone” exercise that provides the students artifacts for future reference and use.