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UK plc (a moniker which in itself seems now to have gone somewhat out of fashion compared to the go-getting eighties) is now experiencing a skills shortage of trained engineers.  So much, so obviously true.

But we wonder to what extent if those of us who take an interest in these things could agree on the reasons for this? Maybe if we can, then we have the basis of a common plan and set of actions to work together on resolving this major issue.

Photo by Jeswin Thomas on UnsplashThis shortage of skilled professionals is causing concern for many industries, including aerospace , automotive , and manufacturing .  In post-industrial areas such as westyorkshire, where there is a very significant legacy engineering capacity which still has the potential to drive economic growth and prosperity at pace, this is felt acutely by the large number of engineering SMEs which find themselves operating in the supply chain of all of those industries.

How did we get to this?

Firstly, we suggest that the lack of interest in stem (science, technology, engineering, and maths) subjects among young people is a significant contributing factor to the shortage of trained engineers. STEM subjects are critical for the engineering field, and without an interest in these areas, it becomes challenging to attract and train individuals to fill engineering roles. Many young people may view STEM subjects as dull or challenging, perhaps even beyond them? This leads to fewer enrolments in engineering courses at universities or apprenticeships in related industries.

Secondly, the negative perception of the engineering profession in society is another contributing factor to the shortage of trained engineers.  The engineering profession has historically been portrayed as boring, unglamorous – even ‘ditry’ and lacking in creativity, which discourages many individuals from pursuing a career in the field.  Furthermore, the lack of understanding of the significant impact engineers have on society, from developing life-saving medicaldevices to designing sustainable infrastructure, has made engineering less appealing to young people. Is it beyond the realms of possibility to suggest that parents, who were themselves told when choosing a career ‘don’t be an engineer’, have played a role in this?

Thirdly, the lack of investment in engineering education and training by the government and industry is another significant factor in the shortage of trained engineers.  Many engineering courses at universities and apprenticeships are expensive, patchy in their geographical delivery and of variably quality. Without financial support, many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds cannot afford to pursue an engineering career at university level, and lack of a clear and consistently communicated mid-level skills offer and quality of provision in further education, both engineering firms and would-be entrants to the industry lack the access and information they need.

Finally, the lack of diversity in the engineering profession is a significant challenge that contributes to the shortage of trained engineers. The engineering industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and there has been a lack of diversity in terms of gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic background. The lack of diversity in the profession may discourage individuals from underrepresented groups from pursuing a career in engineering, exacerbating the skills shortage.

So, and herein perhaps lies the root of why effective solutions have not been forthcoming either nationally or in every region where this issue is commonly seen, the shortage of skilled engineers is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. Addressing the lack of interest in STEM subjects among young people, improving the public perception of engineering, increasing investment in education and training, and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the profession are essential steps towards addressing this skills shortage. It is essential for the government and industry to work together to address these challenges and ensure that the engineering profession remains a critical component of the UK’s economy.

Come and find out how we are tackling the skills shortage and what you can do to build a pipeline of sustainable, quality, future-proofed young talent in your business at our next event.

Picture of Neil Kendall

Neil Kendall, Chair, CKMA