Working in Engineering & Manufacturing in the West Midlands

Engineering is involved with almost everything that we use in our lives, including the cars we drive, public transport we use, appliances we have in our homes, food we eat, and phone, laptop, tablet or PC we use, to name a few. Engineers work on the research, development and manufacture of a huge range of things, and some work in the service & repair of machinery used in industry or by consumers.

Engineering is a vast career area with a wide variety of jobs available. The engineering industry needs skilled and qualified employees. According to Mapping the UK's Engineering Workforce from the Engineering Council, 18% of the total UK workforce is employed in engineering. However, there is a shortage of skilled workers. Up to the year 2024, it is predicted that there will be an annual shortfall of up to 59,000 engineering graduates and technicians to fill essential engineering roles. In particular demand are skills in design & manufacturing and energy and environmental sustainability.

There are opportunities for people of all backgrounds, at different entry levels. The industry is trying to encourage more young people to enter - as well as those from ethnic minority backgrounds and women (only 14.5% of those in engineering occupations are female).

Come to our webinar to find out about:

• the full range of career opportunities, from jobs where no formal qualifications are required to start, up to graduate-level roles where a particular degree or professional qualification will be needed
• where to look to find employment and training opportunities, whatever level you choose to start in engineering & manufacturing
• labour market information on engineering & manufacturing in the West Midlands, who the major employers are, and the particular skills and qualities required by employers in the region
• entry routes available including apprenticeships, college and university

This event will be delivered via MS Teams.

For new customers, we recommend that you have an appointment with a National Careers Service adviser before the webinar takes place.

In the appointment the careers adviser will help you to:

• explore different careers and options
• review your strengths, skills and develop your career goals
• plan your next steps
• make the best use of high-quality, career-related tools
• understand the local job market
• access learning, training, apprenticeship and employment opportunities, including making applications
• develop your CV, interview skills and job searching techniques
• implement your plan of action.

By giving us your personal information you are consenting to be contacted by telephone or email by the National Careers Service to arrange an appointment with a careers adviser prior to the webinar.