All the signs would suggest that across the whole UK economy there appears to be a significant skills gaps developing. Two of the worst sectors hit are the information technology sector and the engineering sector. These are extremely worrying signs if the UK wants to remain as globally competitive in the future as it is today, especially with the rapid emergence of Chindia (China and India).

This emerging skills gap is likely to have profound effects on the market for engineering jobs.

The annual skills survey of engineers carried out by the Institution of Engineering and Technology revealed that companies are struggling to recruit highly skilled and highly qualified engineers to meet their business needs. The engineering and technology sectors are of critical importance to the future of the British economy and the skills shortage means that the future growth and success of businesses is being put in jeopardy.

How have they been bridging this skills gap?

In order for companies to carry out their ambitious plans they have had to find an immediate solution to this increasing problem. The survey revealed that businesses have been turning to help from abroad and recruiting from countries such as India, China and South Africa. Even more interesting is the extent to which this is happening; 48% of businesses are recruiting from abroad.

Is there potential for this skills gap to be bridged from within the UK?

Wishful thinking would be that there are thousands and thousands of students out there and school kids that are itching to fill the void, however, sadly, this is not the case. You would think that engineering jobs would be attractive and exciting opportunities for any youngster out there. Contrary to what you might think engineering is not quite so hip and rad as you'd think.

Another survey by the Institute of Engineering and Technology found out that 14 and 15 year olds don't even consider an engineering job to be in their top ten potential career paths. What is even more disturbing is that a career in hotel management is higher on the wish list for school children.

What does this mean for skilled professionals in the engineering industry?

The crisis in the engineering sector does not bode well for recruiters. On the flipside this means that there is a shift in power towards those skilled engineers already in the job market. If you are a skilled engineer this means that you have increased bargaining power with your employers and potential employers and can seek out engineering jobs ideally suited to your needs.