Pivot thinking: Predicting entrepreneurial intent among engineering students and faculty using problem solving style preference

This research explores the concept of “pivot thinking” or the ability to pivot between domain specific problem solving heuristics, and the impact of this cognitive trait on entrepreneurial career intent. A review of popular problem solving heuristics is presented for comparison purposes. The research sample includes engineering and science-trained students and faculty (n = 114) and measures both business skill self-efficacy and cognitive problem solving style using a four-factor psychometric instrument called the Herrmann Brain Dominance Indicator (HBDI). Results show that both higher levels and a balance between problem solving styles of analytical-factual (Factor A) and conceptual-intuitive (Factor D) predict entrepreneurial intent. Business skill self-efficacy is also an important predictor of entrepreneurial intent with emphasis on understanding business finance and communication skills. The implications of this research on engineering and entrepreneurship education are discussed.