Retiring engineers more than double the number of new recruits, reveals data
25 Mar 2019
Large numbers of engineering workers close to retirement, coupled with a growth in the number of jobs needed, will create a massive shortfall in the industry, suggests a new study.
The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) Labour Market Outlook report suggests that the construction market alone will grow by 33,000 jobs, thanks to billions of pounds-worth of new infrastructure projects.
More than 55% of those employers responding out of 800 questioned for the report cite the high proportion of ageing and retiring employees as the main cause of a worsening skills gap.
The problem is likely to be worst for larger firms with 250-plus staff; on average around half their employees are from outside the UK, compared with an overall average of less than 10%.
Chris Claydon, chief executive of the ECITB, said: “These findings reinforce the concerns that the industry is increasingly articulating.
“We must continue to work closely with employers to find the best ways to assist them to address these challenges if we are to be able to meet forecast demand on the sector in coming years.”
While 29% of those surveyed felt restrictions on labour movement post-Brexit would cause problems, there is considerable variation. In London the figure rises to 40%; however, two third of employers in Wales say it would have no impact.
With nearly one in three employees in the engineering construction sector over 50 but under 25s comprising just one in eight employees, the potential lack and consequent cost of labour will be an issue.
However, the report authors cite female recruitment as a potential growth area. To date just 12.5% of the workforce is comprised of women.
