Core Competencies

Core competencies provide a set of performance indicators that technicians need to know in today's advanced manufacturing environment to be able to accomplish in their work. Delineating core competencies assists the technology or engineering instructor in determining subjects that the technology student needs.

MatEd completed a comprehensive competency study in 2006 in the area of materials technology, and has updated the report in 2009. The study separates the 386 performance objectives into 75 competency concentrations. Each has been rated by a group of 36 professionals in four areas of the U.S. Rating are offered both for general technicians who work in a manufacturing operation where they work with materials, and for materials technicians who work in specific materials production or testing facilities. Links are provided to the report and related information:

• FAQ Core Competencies
• Core Competency Brochure
• Listing of competency concentrations 2009
• Updated core competency/performance indicator listing 2009
• Focus Group List
• Orginal 2006 core competency report Robert Mott

The competency study was used by MatEd to assist in determining areas where curriculum is needed within its current collection to address the needed proficiencies The updated information is available in the MatEd

• GAP Analysis (March 2008)
• GAP analysis spread sheet 2009

In the process of developing these core competency studies, MatEd has developed expertise in the formulation of competencies and in the organization of the process.

• Criteria for development of core competency areas
• Core competency focus group organization

MatEd has also analyzed other similar studies for possible contributions to broadening the MatEd competency study.

• Summary SCME Microsystems Competency Studies

For information about core competencies, please contact Mel Cossette or Frank Cox.

MatEd Competencies Become Foundation for State Curriculum On January 25th, 2008, MatEd and Edmonds Community College Materials Science Technology facilitated a Statewide Materials Science Technology Frameworks Committee Meeting for the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. During this meeting 8-materials science high school teachers from across the state finalized the Washington State curriculum frameworks for Materials Science Technology in the high schools. The committee unanimously approved using the MatEd competencies for the curriculum frameworks.