Gender and Socioeconomic Influences on Career Interest, Career Adaptability, and Employability Among Malaysian Bachelor of Technology Students

Selecting the right career is crucial in preparing students to meet the challenges of the job market. This study investigates the relationships between career interest, career Adaptability, and employability skills among TVET students in MTUN. Specifically, it aims to explore how these factors are interconnected within TVET students. The study involved 265 randomly selected Bachelor of Technology (SMT) students, utilizing a questionnaire adapted from the Career Interest Instrument (Xplorasi), Career Adaptability Instrument, and Employability Skills Instrument. Analysis of career interest differences based on demographic factors revealed no significant differences by gender (F=1.35, p=.25), socio-economic status (F=1.99, p=.07), or parental education level (F=0.72, p=.65). However, career Adaptability showed significant gender-based differences (F=0.57, p=.45) and was notably influenced by socio-economic status (F=3.29, p=.00), while parental education background had a moderate effect on career Adaptability (F=1.74, p=.10). Regarding employability skills, gender (F=0.00, p=.98), socio-economic factors (F=2.52, p=.02), and parental education level (F=1.76, p=.10) significantly impacted students' employability. Despite the lack of significant relationships or differences between the main variables, the study successfully developed a conceptual framework linking career interest, career Adaptability, and employability skills. The findings provide critical insights for TVET institutions, policymakers, and industries to enhance the educational system and increase the competitiveness of TVET graduates by focusing on these key factors.