A need to inspire

25 October, 2016

Chief executive of EngineeringUK, Paul Jackson, who provided a comment on the future of the industry for the Neutronic report, said: “Engineers help to save lives, make our days easier, and create amazing innovations that astound us and keep us entertained. Tomorrow’s Engineers Week showcases what engineers do and it gives young people from all backgrounds the chance to take on engineering challenges and imagine their future as an engineer.

“The aim of the Week is ultimately to address the skills shortage in engineering. 1.82 million people with engineering skills are needed this decade, meaning we need to boost the number of apprentices and graduates entering the industry. To achieve this the community must work together to inspire more young people (boys and girls) and encourage them to think of engineering as an exciting career option.”

Measures urgently need putting in place to encourage a greater interest and understanding of engineering-related pursuits among young people. Secure, inspirational lifelong careers can follow from an early spark of interest. Without continuing and, indeed, increasing the engineering momentum, we all lose out.

Ed Holden

Editor