Engineers continue to be in big demand not only in the UK, but globally too. It’s estimated engineers represent around a fifth (19%) of total UK employment in all registered enterprises, with the MOD and Jaguar Land Rover being amongst the largest employers. However, according to recent research, it’s estimated that there is a current shortfall of 55,000 skilled engineering professionals per year.
The Engineering Jobs In Demand
The field of engineering is incredibly vast, however, there is a current trend for engineers who specialise in information technology and automation to be in high demand. As we rely increasingly on IoT and look for greener ways of living, these sectors are only set to grow for the foreseeable.
1. Data Science: Software engineering shows no signs of slowing down, and an emerging trend is for data science. Found in e-commerce, medical and financial sectors, this field requires both statisticians and software engineers.
2. Robotics, Automation And AI: Thanks to the constant advances in computing and technology, engineering in this field is constantly changing and adapting.
3. Mechanical Engineer: From designing machines and other devices to control manufacturing systems, mechanical engineers are required in a whole host of sectors.
4. Civil Engineer: Civil engineering has long been a sought-after career choice. Helping to design and implement infrastructure, civil engineers are vital for successful societies.
5. Electrical And Alternative Energy Engineer: This broad field is seeing a resurgence as countries and companies make a push towards clean and renewable energy sources.
Why Are Engineers In Demand?
There are a number of reasons why there’s a shortage of engineers, and often the factors are interlinking:
Diversity: Predominantly engineering and other STEM careers are male dominated. This lack of diversity has been, for many, a barrier.
Education: Traditionally apprenticeships were the main entry point for engineering careers, however, in recent years there has been a decline in the overall number of apprenticeships which has had a negative affect on the engineer numbers.
Aging Workforce: It’s estimated that just under a fifth (19.5%) of engineers currently working in the UK are due to retire by 2026, so the skills shortage is only being exacerbated.
How to get started in engineering Engineering can be an incredibly rewarding and lucrative career. Ultimately an interest in STEM subjects at school is a starting point. Testing and building your knowledge on mini computers like a Raspberry Pi is a great place to start. Once you’re sure a career in engineering is for you, you can look at completing a bachelor’s degree in engineering (BEng). Of course, a degree isn’t the only way in, careers such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and software engineering will also allow entry without a degree. These sectors often have apprenticeship options where learning is done on the job.
