Constructing and Validating Professional Competence Indicators for Underwater Welding Technicians for Offshore Wind Power Generation in Taiwan

Abstract

This study aims to develop professional competence indicators for underwater welding technicians for offshore wind power generation in Taiwan. A literature analysis methodology was employed to gather and investigate research studies related to competence indicators in the underwater welding domain of offshore wind power generation. Subsequently, the Delphi method was utilized to conduct a three-round questionnaire survey, aiming to seek expert opinions regarding the appropriateness and differentiation of these competency indicators. To examine the consistency and significance of expert opinions, the data were subjected to K–S single-sample analysis and K–W one-way analysis of variance. The study identified three main dimensions of professional competency indicators for underwater welding technicians in offshore wind power generation: professional skills, professional knowledge, and workplace attitudes. These dimensions further led to the identification of 10 sub-dimensions, including equipment operation, welding practice, welding inspection, metal materials, welding graphics, occupational safety, quality standards, process improvement, self-management, and teamwork. These sub-dimensions further informed the identification of 75 specific behavioral components as criteria. This study provides findings to enhance future staff training and talent recruitment, benefiting relevant units and managers. These results contribute to enhancing the competence and performance of personnel in underwater welding for offshore wind power generation.