"Science and engineering professionals are forecast to be in greater demand in the sub-region"

Sectors: Engineering

The continuing importance of the Engineering sector to the subregion’s economic well-being is emphasised by economic reports and the need to move into the innovative and knowledge based end of the market is frequently highlighted. The Sector Skills Council notes the large and fast moving changes in the engineering manufacturing industry generally and in electronics and telecommunications in particular, requiring updating in skills and knowledge and the need to attract those with appropriate skills.

Meanwhile Transport Technologies has been identified as one of Advantage West Midland’s main cluster groups.

Science and engineering professionals and associate professionals are forecast to be in greater demand in the sub region in the period 2003-2010 and although it is anticipated that the number of jobs for skilled engineers will decline over the same period, replacement needs are such that there will be a net growth of employees over that time.

Included in the general skill needs of the sector are increasing IT skills, particularly at higher levels in design processes, increasing technical skills to operate new technologies and management skills to lead and manage the changes in working practices and technology forecast for the sector.