Among the 9-18 year olds questioned by researchers only a few (10%) were actively considering a career in engineering but two-thirds (67%) would consider a career in engineering if it allowed them to help the world, the environment or save peoples’ lives.
Beth Elgood, director of communications at EngineeringUK, said: “Engineering careers offer young people what they tell us they’re looking for:the opportunity to make a difference and to earn salaries that are higher than average, whether they take a graduate or apprenticeship route.
“During Tomorrow’s Engineers Week, we will showcase a range of engineers working for organisations as diverse as the Red Cross, GSK and the Royal Veterinary College.”
During Tomorrow’s Engineers Week (6-10 November 2017) a series of films will be released showcasing engineers on a mission to tackle the issues young people care about the most, such as homelessness, saving lives and helping animals.
Sarah Cain, reliability and maintenance manager, at Mars Chocolate & Wrigley UK, said: “Engineers are at the forefront of tackling many of the global problems we face in the world today. From my time working for the RAF fixing aircraft, to my current role where I ensure access to safe food for millions of people, I’ve been able to use my engineering skills to help solve problems that really make a difference.
“For a young person who wants a career that is challenging and satisfying, I can’t think of anything better than a career in engineering.”
Sujith Kollamthodi, practice director at Ricardo, added: “I use my engineering skills to help improve our air quality and cut the levels of pollution from cars, trucks and buses.
“An engineering career really can be a dream career as it allows you to contribute to society and make a real difference to people’s lives”.
