What's at STEAK? Exploring engineering methodologies to identify existing generational boundaries impeding the strategic transfer of engineering and architectural knowledge (STEAK)

This paper aims to explore the premise that without proper identification of the engineering generational knowledge transfer boundaries, there will be a significant loss of engineering knowledge. In order to share or transfer pertinent engineering knowledge at a pace equivalent to the increase in engineering retirements, the engineering generational knowledge transfer boundary must be clearly identified and defined. Identifying these boundaries will enable the strategic transfer of engineering and architectural knowledge (STEAK) across generational boundaries. Existing knowledge transfer boundary frameworks, models and methodologies will be explored to clearly identify the engineering generational knowledge transfer boundaries and create a STEAK Model. Relevant knowledge management methodologies can also be incorporated and used to categorize a set of core techniques to be used in this knowledge management process. The methodologies used to develop the STEAK Model will be aimed at bringing knowledge management benefits to an engineering organization. This model will be used to identify and illustrate a knowledge transfer structure that integrates engineering generational knowledge. This “inherent approach” will also be used to evaluate the implications associated with the loss of required knowledge held by exiting engineers if this knowledge is not imparted to incoming inexperienced engineers.