The engineers are coming

With an annual shortfall of at least 20,000 skilled workers, generating interest in engineering has been firmly on the agenda for recruiters and hiring managers for some time now.

A new report by recruitment website Jobsite shows this could finally be making a difference, as findings reveal as many as 50% of 16- to 18-year-olds would consider a career in this field.

New findings by Jobsite reveal that 69% of recruiters find it difficult to source engineering candidates with the right skills or experience. However, this could soon be a problem of the past; perceptions are changing, as Jobsite research finds teens believe engineering is a cool (84%), creative (86%) career choice.

Reasons stated for being attracted to an engineering career include the ability to solve challenging problems (57%), opportunity to build things (55%), career progression (42%) and salary (39%). This view is shared by current engineers who cite rewarding work, job security and varied workload as the best parts of the job.

However, despite 87% being aware of engineering as a career option by age 18, some 63% of teens surveyed were not aware of the qualifications needed to pursue it. Work experience provides some students a way to explore chosen career options, however 70% have not been presented with any opportunities for work experience in the sector.

Gender stereotypes also continue to hold the sector back, as half of teens believe engineering is a male career choice. While most engineers do not agree (77%), nearly half (40%) think that advertised roles reinforce these stereotypes and that engineering does not represent women adequately (50%).

Jobsite CEO Nick Gold said: “Over the last decade, careers in tech have become aspirational. Now it’s time for engineering to revitalise its image and do the same. Through role models and high-profile projects, Britain’s teens are finally seeing that STEM careers are a way to satisfy a range of needs and make a real difference in society.

“Our report highlights the need for recruiters and employers to demonstrate a clear path into these careers for young people today. Engineers we spoke to cite a range of routes into the industry, not just through degrees but also apprenticeships and on the job training. This proves engineering to be a very accessible career choice, regardless of academic strengths and background. Demystifying this is the key to attracting and nurturing the talent needed to fill the shortfall.”