Insights How to encourage the younger generation to get into engineering

The engineering sector is one of the most integral parts of the UK economy, employing 18% of the nation’s total workforceand generating a large portion of the UK's total GDP. With technology continuing to shape the sector, and the current political and economic landscape in a state of flux, it’s clear that a talent pipeline must be developed to ensure strong future growth, both at home and internationally. To do this, parents and caregivers, educators and the industry at large need to identify new ways in which to engage with and inspire the next generation to pursue a career in engineering.

It’s sorely needed. The shortage of young engineers shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone within the sector, especially at the news from EngineeringUK that 47% of 11 to 19-year-olds know very little about what engineers do. EngineeringUK explains that it's not just a case of not knowing about the field, but students also doubt their ability to succeed in a STEM career. There simply aren’t enough young people pursuing a career within the sector, and the wider economy will suffer as a result. The Year of Engineering is upon us, and there’s never been a better time to get people excited about this diverse industry.

Industry misconceptions

Not only does the engineering industry suffer from a lack of young talent, but there is also a much-reported gender imbalance. Women account for just 12% of the engineering workforce, according to EngineeringUK, and historically this has been due to misconceptions that young people have about engineering. For some, the industry may seem daunting, with the expectation that you need to be highly skilled in physics and mathematics, uncreative and heavily interested in ‘fixing’ things to be successful. There's also the age-old perception that found that engineering consists of building and repair work, as opposed to designing and innovating. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that some people see it to be a repetitive, outdated field.

However, the rapid technological development taking place within the sector actually makes for an incredibly forward-thinking field of work. With the Internet of Things, 3D modelling and machine learning all impacting engineering, those who work in the industry are at the cutting edge of new developments and can work incredibly creatively to develop solutions to problems that impact society. It’s not all about getting your hands dirty and completing repetitive tasks, either. The breadth of engineering roles available today means that there really is a role for everyone with the right skills and a curious mind.

In addition, steps are being taken to encourage more women to get into the field – and one of these measures should be introducing the subject of engineering to women at a much earlier stage. Amongst girls, interest in STEM subjects begins to taper off at the age of 16. A study conducted by the Institute of Fiscal Studies found that 92% believe that a STEM career would earn them a good living, but 67% perceive it to be male-dominated and they cite this as a reason for not pursuing it at A-level or university level. This presents a key opportunity for educators to ensure curriculums have a heavy emphasis on STEM subjects, introducing practical hands-on activities to the classroom, bringing in mentors to ignite enthusiasm and encouraging children to explore different career options. Career fairs, innovative apprenticeships and attractive graduate schemes can also help to encourage all young people to take an interest in an engineering career.

Getting young people excited about engineering

Engineering can be an incredibly appealing profession for young people, particularly when you focus on the work many engineers do to improve society and help others. With 90% of young people saying they want a career that tackles social issues, and 67% saying they would consider engineering if it helped society, the problem-solving element of engineering should be emphasised when communicating with the next generation. Modern engineers use their skills to do everything from improving air quality and pollution levels though to helping doctors and veterinarians improve the quality of life of their patients through new devices. The range of possibilities within engineering is enormous, providing huge scope for people to make a difference every day.

The Year of Engineering, a government and industry-led campaign to tackle the engineering skills gap, will go some way to inspiring the next generation of engineers. This year will see the government and its 1,000 partners deliver inspiring engineering experiences to young people, bringing them face-to-face with role models within the industry. Other initiatives such as Highways England, Tomorrow’s Engineers and Inspire Engineering are all playing their part to engage young people in the joys and opportunities that engineering offers.

On a more individual level, parents and educators can inspire young people by talking about engineering feats around them, whether that’s a remarkable bridge, a car engine or a running tap. Engineering-focused games can help, as can problem-solving challenges and activities. Speak to children and teenagers about career pathways available in engineering, ensuring they know how exciting, challenging, creative and rewarding such a career can be. For more inspiration, take a look at our Engine Ears video:

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