A new report by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) in collaboration with the Aerospace, Defence and Space Industry Leadership Group (ILG) has warned of a "looming skills crisis" within the Scottish engineering and manufacturing sector.

The 'Engineering Skills Gap Analysis for Scotland' report, based on a survey of 70 companies representing over 10,000 employees across various sectors, highlights a projected shortfall of 5,800 engineers by 2027. This critical gap is attributed to a confluence of factors, including:

• An aging workforce: A significant portion of the current engineering workforce is nearing retirement, creating natural vacancies.

• Industry growth: The Scottish engineering and manufacturing sector is anticipated to experience substantial growth, further intensifying the demand for skilled professionals.

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• Skills mismatch: The report identifies a potential mismatch between the skillsets of the existing workforce and the evolving needs of the industry.

The analysis emphasises the critical role of apprenticeships and work-based learning programs in equipping future generations with the necessary technical skills. It also underscores the importance of fostering a robust pipeline of talent through investment in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education at all levels.

The report recommends a collaborative approach involving industry, government, and educational institutions to address the skills gap. Key recommendations include:

• Increased investment in STEM education: Encouraging more students to pursue STEM subjects at the secondary and tertiary levels.

• Expansion of apprenticeship programs: Developing and expanding high-quality apprenticeship programs tailored to the specific needs of the engineering sector.

• Upskilling and reskilling initiatives: Providing opportunities for existing workers to acquire new skills and stay abreast of technological advancements.

By implementing these recommendations, Scotland can safeguard the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of its engineering and manufacturing sector.