Carl Patrick will use the grant to research and understand German, Japanese and American young peoples’ perceptions of, and attitudes towards, engineering and engineering careers.
He will also highlight best-practice initiatives introduced within the countries that have helped promote and create more ‘positive’ perceptions of engineering, and recommend strategies that can/could be implemented in the UK to encourage more young people to consider, and ultimately choose, a career in engineering.
Says Patrick: “UK engineering and manufacturing companies have concerns about attracting and retaining top talent into the sector. They are, and have been for some time, experiencing issues related to skills shortages and are naturally worried about the numbers of qualified and committed young people choosing and entering into engineering careers.
“From the outside there doesn’t appear to be the same level of concern or problems being experienced in Germany, Japan or the US - and the research project I am undertaking will help identify why this is the case.”
Adds Tony Dale, Mills CNC’s technical director: “We have passion for engineering and, from our own experience and that of our customers, know that skills shortages are beginning to bite. We must attract the next generation of creative and dedicated engineers into the industry to ensure that the UK maintains its competitiveness and economic prowess.
“The project being undertaken by Carl will, I’m sure, be a real eye-opener and its results could well have wide and far reaching ramifications for everyone involved in engineering, manufacturing and the education and training of our young people.”
