Understanding Key Drivers of Technical Intern Retention in Automotive Parts Production- XYZ Co., Ltd
Keywords:
Intern Retention Intention, Organizational Support, Work Design, Career Perception, Thai automotive industryAbstract
This exploratory mixed-methods study examines key factors associated with technical intern retention at XYZ Co., Ltd., a Thai automotive parts manufacturer struggling with a critical 2% intern-to-employee conversion rate. Combining quantitative surveys of 31 interns and qualitative focus groups with interns and supervisors, this study investigates how Organizational Support and Structure, Work Design and Learning Opportunities, and Career Future Perception are associated with Internship Satisfaction and Intern Retention Intention. Quantitative results indicate that Career Future Perception and selected aspects of Organizational support and Structure are moderately and positively associated with Intern Retention Intention (r = .39-.46, p < .05). Internship satisfaction was the highest among interns with 4-6-month internships duration (M = 3.50), suggesting a critical engagement period. Qualitative findings reveal gaps, including misalignment between academic backgrounds and assigned tasks, inadequate welfare provisions, and unclear career pathways. Together, the findings suggest that facility upgrades, instituting structured mentorship for skill development, and enhancing career transparency may improve retention in Thai automotive manufacturing SMEs.
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