Comment: Engineering the future - inspiring and upskilling the next generation

The demand for engineering skills has never been greater, spanning various industries and specialisations, especially in growth sectors. In the renewable energy sector, a diverse range of skills, including those of engineers and technicians, is crucial. The Offshore Wind Council predicts that the offshore wind industry will need to attract 70,000 additional jobs by 2030. This report also highlights the urgent need to address existing skills gaps in the sector.

To tackle this shortage and ensure a robust pipeline of engineering talent, multiple actions are necessary. While there isn’t a single silver bullet solution, my experience working in the renewable sector and spending most of my career among engineers has revealed a few key imperatives.

Inspire the younger generation

The importance of STEM education is widely recognised, but it cannot be overstated how crucial early education is in shaping the career aspirations of the younger generation. It’s not just about sparking an interest in STEM subjects but also about broadening their awareness of the diverse career opportunities available.

Take engineering, for example. There isn’t a single, catch-all job role for an engineer; the work and sectors are varied. One of my favourite aspects of my current role is engaging with local primary schools. Recently, a group from Fugro and ScottishPower Renewables met with local primary school kids on the Isle of Islay to educate them on wind turbine technology. The pupils really enjoyed the visit, it was full of interactive games and discussion, culminating in the them putting their learnings to the test by building their own floating wind turbines. Watching these children become genuinely engaged with the topic and seeing their eyes opened to different career paths is incredibly rewarding.

It’s a well-established fact that girls often lose confidence after primary school, so reinforcing these career options at the earliest possible opportunity is vital in addressing the persistent gender diversity gaps.

Open up the routes to entry

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, a wide range of skills and aptitudes can lead to a successful engineering career. These skills do not just limit themselves to ones gained from a university education. Opening up different routes to entry will be vital in building up a strong talent pipeline, whether that’s offering on-the-job training in the form of an apprenticeship, offering a graduate scheme, or even providing opportunities for self-taught individuals and those with non-traditional backgrounds. Embracing diverse pathways ensures a more inclusive and innovative workforce.

Upskill existing talent

Organisations also need to look beyond the immediate skills and achievements of potential recruits, as well as the potential for upskilling existing talent. 

My own journey into engineering unfolded quite organically and was not the career path I had envisioned for myself. At university, I pursued a degree in Business & Administration, specialising in marketing and economics. My foray into engineering began 30 years ago when I joined Fugro, initially on a temporary basis as a receptionist. Over time, my role evolved into a more permanent position with increasing project coordination responsibilities.

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Our Structural Monitoring team carried out small vibration monitoring projects, which, were managed by support services. As our workload intensified and the number of projects grew, I learned to install the equipment, interpret the data, and eventually undertook site work at construction sites. This hands-on experience was invaluable, demonstrating that engineering skills can be developed through practical application and a willingness to learn.

As I advanced in my career at Fugro, my role expanded in tandem, and I received unwavering support at every juncture. Having initially failed mathematics in school, I attended night classes and achieved an 85 per cent score, then went on to earn my HNC in Electrical Engineering. Working alongside engineers has a unique way of equipping you to tackle challenges from various perspectives, which has been instrumental in bolstering my confidence as my career has developed.

The benefits of tapping into your existing talent pool

The benefits of upskilling within an organisation are considerable. By identifying and nurturing talent from diverse backgrounds, companies can foster innovation and resilience. My journey from a receptionist to working within an engineering environment is a testament to the potential that lies within every employee, waiting to be unlocked with the right support and opportunities.

By focusing on both the current skill set and the potential for growth, organisations can build a dynamic workforce ready to tackle future challenges.

The final word

In conclusion, addressing the pressing skills gap in the engineering sector, particularly within the renewable energy industry, requires a multifaceted approach. By inspiring the younger generation through early STEM education, opening diverse routes to entry, and upskilling existing talent, we can build a robust pipeline of engineering professionals. These strategies not only ensure a steady supply of skilled workers but also foster innovation and inclusivity within the workforce. As demonstrated by personal experiences, the potential for growth and development in engineering is vast, and with the right support, we can unlock this potential to meet future challenges head-on.