Could advanced manufacturing transform the workforce in Yorkshire and the Humber?
Yorkshire and the Humber is famous for its manufacturing, and despite a well-documented decline in traditional manufacturing, the region is seeing a rapid growth in advanced industries.
Advanced manufacturing currently employs 3% of the workforce in Yorkshire and the Humber.
However, research commissioned by Ï㽶ÊÓƵ has found the industry is expecting to see hundreds of new jobs created across the region over the next five years.
An increase in job openings
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ found the top five occupations in advanced manufacturing in Yorkshire and the Humber - including metal working production and maintenance fitters - are expected to produce 7,518 job openings by 2022.
The top 10 growth occupations are expected to see more than 560 new jobs in the region, from engine manufacture to pharmaceuticals.
Departures from the workforce will see a continuous flow of job openings in the next five years – with more than 12,000 new workers required across the top 10 occupations in advanced manufacturing. It is estimated each occupation will replace at least one in six workers by 2022.
Skills priorities for advanced manufacturing
The constant need for innovation and adaptation means advanced manufacturing relies on a technically-skilled workforce, both regionally and nationally.
But the industry is facing a skills challenge and shortage, so it will be more critical than ever for employers to identify roles to fulfil their future growth plans.
According to the research, more than 40% of the industry’s workforce is classed as highly-skilled, and this is expected to grow to 46% by 2022. Many employees have a degree or higher, including 56% of mechanical engineers and 46% of electrical engineers.
Businesses already invest heavily in apprenticeships, with one in four employing apprentices, compared to one in six in other industries. A further quarter of employers report an intention to offer apprenticeships – equal to some 700 workplaces which could be offering apprenticeships in the region.
Could apprenticeships transform your business?
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ’s Department of Engineering has a strong history of collaboration with employers to deliver work-focussed education and training. Soon, all employers in advanced manufacturing in the UK will be able to access funding and support from the new Apprenticeship Levy to help upskill new and existing employees.
Find out more
For more information about apprenticeships for your business, contact the team today.
Call 0114 225 3433
Email apprenticeships@shu.ac.uk