What two years of assessment data reveals
What is competency assessment?
Before diving into the assessment data and findings, it’s important to understand the structure and purpose of the assessment. It consists of 40 carefully selected questions and has been developed by technical experts with over 200 years of combined turbine experience.
To pass the test, you need a 70% or above score in the four areas below.
- Mechanics
- Hydraulics
- Electrics
- Controls
The purpose of an assessment is to identify any knowledge gaps in the four areas. This knowledge is used to create customized training pathways to best support each individual.
Why should you assess you technicians?
We believe that data is the key to efficiency. This also applies to competency development.
By assessing participants’ competencies from the outset, you create personalized development plans that target specific areas for improvement, ultimately saving time and resources.
Try it yourself
Try the condensed version of our full-scale Technical Competency Assessment below. Be aware, you only have 10 minutes to complete the assessment!
Best of luck!
A significant competency gap
We started by examining the overall competency level across the four different areas.
Surprisingly, the hydraulics section is the area where most people need upskilling. This is a challenge because the lack of knowledge in hydraulics can affect brake controls, blade rotation, turning the blades, and more. This could result in reduced turbine availability, and in the worst case, lead to breakdowns or damaged components.
28% of the individuals we assessed passed the test but did not achieve over 70% in all required areas, which is beneficial to progress in our competency pathway and more advanced training programs. Although they demonstrated proficiency in most categories, they need further development in one or more areas, most commonly in hydraulics.
What happens if you don't pass all four areas?
Most people scored above 70% in one or more areas but struggle in others. This means they are not yet ready for our advanced training until their skills are improved in the specific areas.
If the participant struggles in one or two areas we usually suggests a one-day online sprint training, preparing them for the next step in our Competency Pathway.
Otherwise we suggest a 5 days Technology Essential training, designed to lift the competencies in all four areas.
Years in the field do not necessarily translate to increased competencies
The assessed individuals have experience ranging from 0 to 20+ years, and as the graph below illustrates, experience level does not correlate directly with competency.
We often rely on more experienced individuals for guidance and training. In many places, training and onboarding are conducted by having experienced individuals pass along their knowledge and explain how things is done.
The graph indicates that it may be advantageous to implement additional training methods beyond just peer-to-peer learning and depending solely on experienced staff for acquiring new knowledge.
More individuals with 0 to 2 years of experience excel in all four competency areas compared to those with 12 to 15 years of experience and beyond.
Main findings from assessment data
90% are in need of upskilling
90% of those who have taken the Stage 1 assessment test would benefit from enhancing their competencies in one or more of the four areas assessed. Most individuals score above 70% in one or more areas, but not all four, indicating a need to further develop their competencies.
The majority encounter difficulties with hydraulics
Understanding hydraulics and how the turbine is affected is crucial for optimal output. Only 20% scored 70% or higher in this area, which could result in reduced availability.
The people with the most experience scores the lowest
It is a significant challenge when those we typically learn from are among the lowest scorers in our assessment tests. This indicates a substantial need for additional training. People with 2 to 7 years of experience score the highest across all four areas.
10% are qualified for Advanced Platform Theory
Out of the individuals we have assessed over the past two years, 10% are ready for turbine-specific training. A solid understanding of the fundamentals in the four categories is essential to fully benefit from more advanced training.
Do you know the competency level of your staff?
Use the map to locate the DWPA employee closest to you and inquire about assessment opportunities.
