ENGINEERING GRADUATES AND JOBS

Have just seen press releases relating to a research report from Birmingham University about the number of engineering and science graduates taking up degree relevant jobs, or indeed finding such jobs.

Until I have seen the report, it is difficult to be too reactive. It does seem as though this is based on statistics available. So, some initial reactions.

We have always known that about 50% of Engineering graduates go into engineering related (or STEM related jobs); this is not a new revelation. We have always believed that this was often by choice, with many of the best going into other numerate requiring careers.

We have also known that there are considerable variations by discipline, ie you cant just treat all science and engineering jobs as one lump.

Similarly we know that quality is a big issue, not relating solely to the engineering and science knowledge gained through the degree, but rather to the employability skills and future development potential of the graduates; ie the same that would apply to any recruitment process.

Now to the demand side.
All the discussions that I have with industry at senior levels as well as at business unit and recruiting level indicate that there are skills shortages. Indeed, my take is that these are getting worse, and that the shortages we have talked about for years are upon us. This is being impacted by the changing demographics from both the retirement end and the declining pool of 18 year olds at present.

With the drive to grow advanced manufacturing, to support major infrastructure projects, to feed hi-tech industries from electronics to biotechnology, we are hearing that there is a major shortage of quality skills.

The IT industry is a good example, where the numbers coming through have dropped markedly. Now whether this is a function of lack of attraction (and certainly girls are avoiding this industry), or whether there is a real perception of lack of jobs/careers I don’t know. However, even the large companies are concerned about future skills.

Now, this discussion has been about graduates. I haven’t even touched on the vocational skills shortage which is well known, and is for another day.

There is another more general issue (before I sign off for now). Engineering and Science degrees are wonderful training routes to many jobs and careers. Having a numerate, logical thinking, practically minded, problem solving graduate pool has got to be good for society and UKplc. It feeds growth and innovation.

Therefore in an ideal situation we would always strive to have a pool greater than the demand. It is no coincidence that many of the city firms and consultancies seek out the best engineering and science graduates.

Finally, let’s not jump or react in a knee-jerk manner to these stats until we know more. But the challenge to get more young people through to STEM careers remains as key a business imperative as ever.

Gordon Mizner