ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
The rapid advancement of digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) has transformed the role of engineers from technical specialists to strategic leaders within organizations. The success of technological development depends not only on technical expertise but also on the values, ethics, and integrity demonstrated by leaders. This article aims to examine the importance of values-based leadership among engineers in addressing the challenges of digital transformation. A qualitative conceptual review approach was employed through an analysis of literature on leadership theory, professional ethics, AI ethics, and responsible innovation. The findings indicate that trustworthiness, integrity, accountability, fairness, and social responsibility are critical elements contributing to effective engineering leadership. Furthermore, challenges such as ethical dilemmas associated with artificial intelligence, organizational pressures, data security and privacy concerns, and technological sustainability require engineering leaders to make decisions grounded in strong moral principles and supported by enabling organizational conditions. This study proposes a Values-Based Engineering Leadership Model as a framework for higher education institutions, industrial organizations, professional bodies, and policymakers. The article contributes to the growing body of knowledge on technical leadership and reinforces the role of engineers as ethical and sustainable agents of technological development.
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