Engineering technology departmental leadership

This paper discusses important aspects of leadership as applicable for engineering technology educational unit leaders and senior faculty. The paper is divided into four primary areas and has been used as the basis for an engineering technology leadership workshop with new leaders or individuals preparing for leadership roles. The content areas are: a) leadership versus management; b) situational leadership for educators; c) motivating people in the academic setting; and, d) leadership when making decisions for the good of the unit. The leadership versus management section provides a brief explanation of, and contrast between, leadership and management. This sets the stage for the second section where situational leadership for educators is addressed. This section includes a discussion of leadership styles and the readiness of the faculty being led. The third section addresses motivating people (both faculty and staff) in the academic setting, including the management of resources as a leadership tool. The fourth section focuses on the role of the unit leader in making difficult decisions for the good of the unit.