New deal to boost high-tech manufacturing skills
1 min read
Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, today (2 March) announced a strategic partnership agreement with A|D|S, the trade organisation responsible for advancing UK aerospace, defence and security industries.
The partnership has been formed to allow enhanced collaboration between the two organisations, ultimately simplifying the provision of skills in line with feedback from companies to assist and support the aims and objectives of both employers and the sector's workforce in the UK.
Semta chief executive Philip Whiteman said the partnership would strengthen employer relationships.
Ian Godden, chairman of A|D|S, said: "Aerospace, defence, security and space are jewels in the crown of UK high-tech manufacturing and services. We are among the world leaders in these sectors thanks to the highly-skilled and talented workforce in this country. We survived the devastation of the recessions of the 1980s and 1990s and we have done so again.
"However, to maintain this position of leadership we must continue to inspire young people and invest in skills provision for them. This is why A|D|S is delighted to be working with Semta to achieve this goal.
Latest research shows 7% of aerospace companies are reporting hard-to-fill vacancies which is double that experienced across all sectors, most of these are related to skills shortages In addition, 29%t of aerospace companies reported skills gaps (19% across other sectors), primarily at a managerial, professional and craft level.
Pictured (l-r): Ian Godden (ADS chairman), Philip Whiteman (Semta chief executive), Graham Chisnall (MD Aerospace&Operations and Mark Stewart (ADSSG chairman).
