Skills shortage in computing could prevent UK from meeting AI ambitions and Net Zero

From electric vehicles to carbon capture, engineers can play major roles in creating a greener planet. But outdated opinions – including what skills are needed, and gender stereotypes– could be preventing people from becoming an engineer – according to the latest figures.

New research commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineering shows two thirds (64%) of UK adults believe engineering jobs are crucial to addressing society’s biggest challenges, such as climate change. However, misperceptions about engineering jobs could be putting young people off careers in the profession and holding the UK back from meeting its net zero goals.

So today, on National Engineering Day, the Royal Academy of Engineering is showing the nation that everyone has the potential to be an engineer by calling upon the public to vote for their favourite invention in the “Everyday Engineering” competition, which invited the UK’s kitchen table engineers to submit ideas and creations that could make daily life more sustainable.

Aston spoke to Dr Rhys Morgan, skills and inclusion director at Royal Academy of Engineering.