Yesterday’s A-Level results show a welcome rise in top-level grades across STEM subjects, with record numbers of young people choosing technical pathways like science, engineering, and mathematics.
According to Mark Gray, UK & Ireland Country Manager at Universal Robots, this momentum is vital in the UK as a new digital-native generation enters the workforce.
He believes that tech-savvy and adaptable talent has the potential to drive advancements in automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.
He shared his thoughts on why it’s vital to channel this enthusiasm into the skills and sectors the UK needs most.
“How young people engage with the technology that we find in the workplace is going to be transformed in the next 10-15 years because of AI and automation. Our young people have grown up with technology – our iPad generation – and are better equipped to embrace change and pick up skills much faster than the existing workforce.
“As the UK government rolls out its Industrial Strategy, this year’s school leavers represent the next wave of talent that will make this strategy a success. We have a crucial opportunity to harness their digital fluency and forward-thinking mindset to shape the future of work.
“Certainly, engineering and technology degrees are becoming more and more popular in the UK, which is amazing to see. But the past few years has seen doubt cast over the value that traditional degrees provide for career prospects, especially as graduates face a job market fundamentally changed by AI. Entry level roles are harder to come by, and competition is fierce.
“While pursuit of technical qualifications has historically not been as fashionable as going to university, the job market now demands hands-on experience and skills. While the number of people starting an apprenticeship in the last academic year increased to 340,000, only 14% are in engineering and manufacturing sectors, highlighting the urgent need to make these sectors more attractive to young people.
“As the law of supply and demand suggests, roles in engineering and manufacturing will see exponential wage rises because less people are entering this field. We must ensure that our young people realise the potential here, and can see themselves working in these industries.”
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