Addressing the skills gap at Advanced Engineering 2024

From developing renewable energy solutions to integrating AI into manufacturing processes, engineers play a crucial role in shaping the world we live in. Engineers don’t just help solve today's problems, they also anticipate and address the challenges of tomorrow.

However, the industry is currently facing significant skills shortages, a challenge driven by trends like an ageing population, the transition to net zero and broader economic changes.

These pressures have heightened the demand for skilled professionals, yet the UK supply still faces disruption. “Our members across the UK tell us that finding the people with the right skills is becoming harder,” said Claire Walker, co-executive director of policy and campaigns at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). “Brexit and the uncertainty for the future of non-British workers has only added to their worries.”

A joint report from the Open University and the BCC in 2022 highlighted the extent of this crisis. The report found that almost three-quarters of organisations are experiencing increased workloads on existing staff due to skills shortages. And four out of five are facing reduced output, profitability, or growth, with nearly a third turning down work or unable to bid for new projects due to staff shortages.

Initiatives like the "Mind the Skills Gap" campaign are attempting to address these challenges by advocating for better education and training opportunities. That’s important, but aspiring engineers should be proactive in reaching their career goals too. Resources and tools like the Engineers Insight vlog can be useful assets for those looking to explore career options, find mentors and gain industry insights.

Likewise, for those seeking a more hands-on approach to entering the industry, attending Advanced Engineering is the way to go. Held on October 30 and 31 at the NEC in Birmingham, Advanced Engineering is the UK’s largest annual gathering of engineering and manufacturing professionals and brings together industry leaders, experts and aspiring engineers.

This event offers a unique platform to explore the latest advancements in engineering, attend informative workshops and network with potential employers. Whether you're a student, a recent graduate or a professional looking for a career change, the trade show provides invaluable opportunities to learn and connect with the engineering community.