UK Defence Sector Faces Growing Skills Gap Amid Increased Investment and Changing Workforce Dynamics
The UK defence sector is confronting a persistent and expanding skills gap across critical craft roles such as electrical engineers and welders, as well as in digital, cyber, and green technologies. This shortfall is expected to widen as defence spending increases, highlighted by the Ministry of Defence's recent announcement of a £1 billion investment in AI-powered battlefield systems and the establishment of a Cyber and Electromagnetic Command.
Competition for STEM talent remains intense, with technology firms and the broader economy vying for skilled workers. Concerns have been raised about the school system's capacity to produce enough qualified graduates to meet these demands. In response, defence companies are intensifying efforts to broaden the talent pool; initiatives include promoting internal mobility and upskilling employees at companies like Thales, recruiting career switchers, and hiring non-graduates.
The ethical values of Generation Z are shaping recruitment, as many seek green and purpose-driven employers. This trend is prompting the defence sector to emphasize its societal impact and sustainability goals. However, ethical reservations about lethal military technology deter some graduates from considering careers in defence. Additionally, reliance on ex-military personnel, while beneficial for certain roles requiring customer insight, can constrain the candidate pool.
Smaller firms or non-prime contractors often attract entrants interested in cutting-edge projects and a younger workforce. Reflecting diverse engagement with the sector, around half of Bath computer systems engineering student Alex Bethell's cohort completed a year in industry with defence or defence-adjacent companies. Moreover, companies like Thales actively promote STEM and digital skills outreach to primary schools and highlight their technologies' applications beyond defence, including civilian protection.
