Do you want to pursue a career in manufacturing and engineering? Well, let’s take a look at the many opportunities and benefits of working in the manufacturing sector.
The manufacturing industry is broad, consisting of various job titles, job descriptions and roles. As sectors use complex techniques, technologies, and machines to manufacture goods, it’s beneficial to become familiar with the different job positions to select the right role for you. Also, it’s essential to understand the trends and changes happening in the industry.
Find what you’re good at or passionate about and find which sector really resonates with you, this will help you focus on which sector will be best suited to you work-wise.
The Skills Gap
The ‘skills gap’ refers to job positions in the manufacturing and engineering industry that are vacant as candidates don’t have the knowledge and skills required. The manufacturing industry relies on hard skills, these are qualifiable skills that are gained through training, school or work experience.
There are multiple different opportunities available to help close this skills gap. STEM Learning is a provider of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths education / careers, supporting schools, colleges and communities across the UK. Also available is The Big Bang Fair that encourages young people and inspires them in the engineering professions. The fair is an event of exciting and interactive activities that gives young people the chance to see engineering in action and talk with people who work in the industry. Showing the younger generation that manufacturing and engineering industry will allow them to see the hard skills needed and the pathways available to achieve those skills.
Growth In Industry
The manufacturing industry is vital for any economy. Global manufacturing production grew by 9.4% in 2021 after the pandemic-related drop of 4.2% in 2020. In the UK alone the manufacturing industry is responsible for over 7.4 million jobs.
The manufacturing industry is swiftly changing, the sector is always looking for improvements and innovation. This includes adopting technology, software and programs. Manufacturing companies are continually looking for cost-effective ways to produce goods. As there has been a skills shortage, companies are more likely to invest in manufacturing and engineering products and services that they offer.
We are now at the beginning of the next revolution, the next phase of technological expansion and social change. The four revolutions:
1st – The industrial revolution dominated using steam power.
2nd – The age of science and mass production
3rd – The digital revolution
4th – The new technologies (e.g., AI)
As the sector is always changing, you will need to embrace the changes if you are looking for a career in manufacturing.
Opportunities
Whether you are already working in the manufacturing sector or looking to join the industry, there are endless opportunities. The manufacturing and engineering industry is reliant on skills and knowledge, giving you the chance to learn a range of skills and abilities.
If you’re starting your career, there are many apprenticeships and university courses in engineering and technical fields. Employees can learn how to use machines and equipment through apprenticeships and training. For manufacturers to remain competitive, they must recruit employees who possess the necessary qualifications and training required.
A career in manufacturing could start as an entry-level role. This creates an opportunity to work your way up through a company as many manufacturing and engineering companies like to promote within. This could also lead to completing an undergraduate program to strengthen your knowledge and skills in your position.
The manufacturing sector makes up approximately 23% of the UK’s profits, meaning there are a large amount of investment opportunities within the industry. In turn, this opens up a lot of progression opportunities.
With the dangerous and technical work being carried out by robots and machines, this leaves open maintenance or managerial roles. Maintenance of the robots / machines is vital to keep the efficiency of the production line. The managerial aspects involve managing where the work goes, and leading teams to achieve the final product.
There is a variation of careers in the manufacturing industry and the sector is extremely diverse. The sectors within manufacturing and engineering include food, aerospace, chemical, civil engineering, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and many more.
Working With New Technology
This line of work offers unique challenges when striving to improve processes, making production and services more efficient. One of the many benefits of having a career in the manufacturing industry is the variety your job will offer, having the chance to work with the best equipment and facilities.
The technology and innovation implemented throughout the UK are constantly improving. 3D printing is changing the ways products are crafted and smart factories are becoming a thing of the future.
If you’re technically minded and hands-on, manufacturing will be perfect for your skillset. Starting a career in manufacturing will mean you’ll learn valuable skills that keep you up to date with the world’s latest technology and a chance to work in the best facilities and equipment. As there is a skills shortage, employers are retaining their productive employees as well as seeking new talent while offering unique opportunities.
It’s predicted that more workers of all ages will be wanting to join the manufacturing industry. With the ability to offer an exciting career, working with advanced equipment and making a difference. As The fourth industrial revolution brings digitalisation and networking of humans and machines. The developments that it offers provide the potential for businesses and the economy.
Overall, as manufacturing has a variety of sectors and careers, there are many pathways in the industry for you to choose from.
With thanks to:
https://www.europeansprings.com/7-reasons-to-start-a-career-in-manufacturing/
