Call for UK to double number of engineering recruits

The latest figures from EngineeringUK reveal the UK only produces 46,000 engineering graduates each year, even though there is demand for around 69,000. In addition, only 27,000 apprentices a year qualify at level 3; even though there is demand for almost triple that number. "What the report makes clear is the need to lay the groundwork early," said EngineeringUK's chief executive Paul Jackson. This means providing robust and consistent careers information for young people that promotes the diversity of engineering careers available and the variety of routes to those careers." Jackson continued: "Job prospects in engineering are a good news story. It is crucial, however, that government, business, professional bodies, education and the wider engineering community continue to work together to ensure that the UK has the talent pipeline ready to meet demand." Business Minister Michael Fallon, who announced the official launch of the report at No.11 today alongside representatives from some of the biggest names in engineering, said the government was doing all it could to support engineering at all levels. This, he said, included engaging in schools, apprenticeships and postgraduate training. One of the many recommendations the report makes is for the government to join forces with the engineering industry, professional bodies and the third sector to achieve long term impact at a national level. It also calls for 'robust and consistent' careers advice to be given to all 11 to 14 year olds to promote the benefits of a career in engineering and discuss the various routes into the sector. As such, additional support for teachers and careers advisors in delivering careers information, to give them an understanding of the range of engineering career paths available, is advised. The full report can be downloaded below.