Meaning Makers: A Mixed-Methods Case Study of Exemplary Chief Executive Officers of Engineering Technology Organizations and the Behaviors They Use to Create Personal and Organizational Meaning

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this thematic, mixed-methods case study was to identify and describe the behaviors used by exemplary chief executive officers of engineering technology organizations to create personal and organizational meaning for themselves and their followers through the five variables of character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom. Additionally, followers were surveyed to determine the degree to which they perceive the behaviors related to character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom help to create personal and organizational meaning.

Methodology: Exemplary chief executive officers of engineering technology organizations were interviewed to determine their perception of which behaviors they utilize to employ character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom to bring meaning to their lives, their followers, and the organization. Followers completed electronic surveys delivered to them by email.

Findings: There has been significant research done on leadership skills, traits, and behaviors, as well as on meaning; however, there is a gap in the literature describing the behaviors used by exemplary chief executive officers of engineering technology organizations when employing the five variables to bring meaning to themselves, their followers, and the organization. The review of literature revealed the importance of character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom as leadership skills and in building personal and organizational meaning. The study revealed that exemplary leaders create meaning for themselves, their organizations, and their followers through behaviors that exhibit positive character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom. Of these five variables, relationships, vision, and character were the most-cited behaviors in creating meaning.

Recommendations: Further research is advised by replicating the study in other engineering technology organizations. Further research is advised by researching female chief executive officers in engineering technology organizations.

Conclusions: By identifying and describing the behaviors associated with character, inspiration, relationships, vision, and wisdom by exemplary chief executive officers of engineering technology organizations, researchers can provide information to leaders, trainers, and organizations so that best practices may be developed to benefit all leaders, their followers, and the organizations in which they work.