Change engineering’s ‘archaic image’ to attract top talent, says MTA chief

Engineering needs to change its image to attract top talent, according to the CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association.

Speaking at the National Manufacturing Debate at Cranfield University today, James Selka said the industry’s “dirty” image was a barrier to recruiting new talent. “The default portrayal of manufacturing features images of dirty factories, on run down industrial estates and a declining industry as a whole,” he said. “It’s been shaped by a forty-year narrative of a decline. Strife in the 70s, layoffs in the 80s, and offshoring in the 90s.”

“We need to refute this pervasive myth that manufacturing is dirty, dangerous and dead end,” he continued. “Everyone in this room knows that modern manufacturing is clinical, it is clean, and that jobs in it come with remarkable opportunities.”

Selka also highlighted the role parents can play in leading their children towards careers in engineering, and said future engagement work should focus on them too. “Parents are often the biggest influence on their children in terms of careers advice. As much as we engage with schools and teachers, it is the parents’ perception we need to change.”

The MTA run a competition for schools across the country called the Technology, Design and Innovation (TDI) challenge, which Selka said gives them the opportunity to engage directly with parents and educate them on the benefits of an engineering career.

“Education is becoming ever more expensive and people need to be aware that engineering provides real opportunities for progression,” he said. “What other industry can you enter at 16, get a qualification and progress all the way up to PHD level without any personal debt?”