UK Defence Sector Battles for Future Talent

The UK's defence industry faces a significant challenge: a growing shortage of skilled workers, particularly among younger generations. As the government plans to boost defence spending amidst an uncertain global landscape, the sector struggles to attract the talent it desperately needs, from digital experts to engineers. A major hurdle lies in the ethical perceptions surrounding military technology. Many graduates, like one computer science student named Caleb, express discomfort with working on systems that could be used in conflict. This unease, say recruitment specialists, is more prevalent among Gen Z, who often prioritise working for companies with strong ethical and environmental credentials. Beyond moral considerations, the defence sector also faces fierce competition for talent. Technology firms and other businesses are vying for specialists in crucial areas like artificial intelligence, cyber security, and green technology. The government highlights a "strong requirement for Stem skills" – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics – noting concerns about a lack of these skills emerging from schools, affecting everything from craft roles to cutting-edge digital positions. Recognising this image problem, defence companies are working to shift perceptions. They argue that only a small fraction of their work involves "kinetic" (explosive) technology. Instead, much of their innovation contributes to broader societal benefits, such as Royal Navy helicopters used for rescue missions, or cybersecurity solutions protecting critical national infrastructure. Firms like French technology giant Thales are actively engaging in outreach, even down to primary school level, to highlight the diverse applications of their work and encourage STEM development. The industry is also trying to shake off a reputation for being rigid and conservative, with younger recruits often preferring cutting-edge design work over maintaining older systems. To broaden their talent pool, companies are moving beyond traditional recruitment methods. Historically, the sector relied heavily on ex-military personnel, but now there's a push to recruit more widely. Firms like Thales encourage internal career switching and actively bring in career changers from civilian tech companies and other sectors, including former teachers and chefs. They also collaborate with universities to shape curricula, and some are dropping graduate-only recruitment policies to tap into a wider range of non-graduate talent. These efforts appear to be making some headway. One student noted that about half of his engineering cohort completed industry placements with defence-related firms. While the dream of creating the next big video game might initially appeal, the pragmatic reality of securing a stable, well-paying job could eventually draw many into the defence sector. The industry's battle for talent is far from over, but it is adapting to fight it. --- Managing your business finances? TaxAce provides smart online accountancy services for UK businesses with flexible monthly plans. Image and reporting: https://www.bbc.co.uk | Read original article