A Contemporary Perspective on the Role of Mathematics in Career Readiness Based on Students' Perceptions

Mathematics plays a fundamental role in engineering education, equipping students with critical analytical and problem-solving skills essential for professional success. However, students often perceive mathematics as abstract and disconnected from real-world engineering applications, creating a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry requirements. This study examines the perceptions of 176 students at TTK University of Applied Sciences regarding the role of mathematics in their career readiness. The findings reveal that while students acknowledge the importance of mathematics in developing problem-solving abilities, they express uncertainty about its direct relevance in the job market. The study highlights the need for pedagogical strategies that integrate applied mathematics with practical engineering tasks, ensuring better alignment between education and industry expectations. Recommendations include curriculum modifications to enhance realworld applications of mathematical concepts and stronger industry-academia collaboration to bridge the perceived disconnect between mathematics education and professional requirements.