Two thirds of engineering employers fear for education system

The 2015 Skills & Demand in Industry report found that over half of employers (53 per cent) are struggling to find suitably qualified staff, with new recruits failing to meet the required standards. 69 per cent of those recruiting graduates reported a lack of available candidates. While this may be good news for grads in the short term with regard to wage inflation, there are worries over the long term health of the industry, with 64 per cent of employers claiming the shortage of engineers is a threat to their business.

“Demand for engineers in the UK remains high, with supply unable to keep pace – and employers continuing to highlight skills shortages as a major concern,” said Nigel Fine, IET chief executive.

“Stronger and deeper collaboration between employers and academic institutions is needed to agree practical steps to ensure that young people are suitably prepared both academically and practically before they start work. Supporting and encouraging teachers and academics to spend time in industry – and employers to visit schools, colleges and universities – would also be hugely beneficial.”