12 Dec 2013
The chemical industry has an ambition to raise its contribution to the economy by 50% to £300 bn by 2030, positioning itself as the country's leading manufacturing exporter. This will only be achieved if the industry can employ the right people with the right skills, something that employers are reportedly struggling with.
SCI has been working in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry, Salters' Institute and Gatsby Charitable Foundation to address this. A seminar was held in June 2013, bringing together over 50 chemical industry employers, trainers and stakeholders.
A report: Supporting Technical Skills in the Chemical Industry that draws on the discussions has been published. The report look at the challenges of creating a supply of people with the right technical skills to support industry, universities and schools including:
- Establishing clear training and career pathways to technician roles
- Overcoming difficulties faced by employers in recruiting technicians
- Developing technicians within the work place
- Establishing and maintaining the quality of work-based training and vocational courses
- Ensuring the sustainability of the technical training landscape
- Raising awareness of chemical science apprenticeships
The report also presents recommendations for government, employers, colleges, awarding organisations and professional bodies.
The full report is available to download using the link below.