how to ignore blank cells in creatig dropdown lists (validation lists)

I am trying to make a drop down list (validation list) where my data source is from another sheet. I was able to do it successfully but the problem is the blank cells are also being included. I also put a check mark in "ignore black" in validation settings but still getting the same results. I also tried merging the cells - also same results.

Any suggestions so everytime the dropdown list will show, only cells with texts are shown (blank cells are not included)?

You could put a separate list of the items in Column A, say starting at X3, like this:

Material/tools/equipments
Process
Documentation
Offshore infrastructure
Personal
Site infrastructure

Then use this as the source for your DV drop-down.

Hope this helps.

Pete