Research
At EngineeringUK, robust research forms a vital part of our strategic decision making process.
Our flagship publication is the Engineering UK report, which is an annual statistical digest on the state of UK engineering. The report helps our decision making and serves as a valuable engineering community resource. In this, the report’s twelfth year, we have worked in collaboration with others to provide a comprehensive analysis of supply, demand, education, training and employment trends in the sector.
Monitoring progress
To ensure the engineering community works effectively, it is essential that not only do we identify areas for improvement but also monitor progress made. The Engineers and Engineering Brand Monitor is a UK wide perceptions study, annually measuring young people’s (and their influencers') attitudes towards engineering.
For example, the research shows that 7-16 year olds enjoy the creative aspect of design and technology, but do not necessarily associate the subject with a career in engineering. Additionally, 16-24 year-olds have the least amount of knowledge about (or interest in) a career in engineering.
The numbers also show that the profile of engineering as a profession is changing. On a positive note, 62% of parents in 2009 saw engineering as a desirable (or very desirable) career for their children, compared with 56% in 2008. The work also shows that values – and their impact on career choices - are changing: In 2009, 75% of people saw job security as being important, compared 63% in 2008.
Briefing papers
In addition to core research projects, EngineeringUK also produces regular briefing papers on key issues in engineering in order to help, advise and inform the wider engineering community. Previous paper topics include manufacturing, destinations of graduates, careers IAG and gender. To see all our briefing papers please click here.
Date Published: June 21, 2010
