Sustainability Skills Challenge in UK Engineering

This report presents findings from a survey conducted by YouGov, which involved over 2000 engineering employers in the UK. The survey highlights the challenges faced by the UK in achieving its ambition to lead in AI and sustainability due to insufficient adoption of digital technologies. It outlines the necessity of a comprehensive approach that includes an industrial strategy, innovation funding, and upskilling the workforce to enhance international competitiveness. The report details the low confidence of employers in the education system's ability to prepare graduates for industry, emphasizing the need for collaboration between industry and universities. It also documents the skills gaps identified by employers, particularly in sustainability and digital technologies. The report concludes with recommendations for government intervention to facilitate upskilling in sustainable technologies and improve the overall skill set of the engineering workforce to meet net zero goals.