If you are interested in going into the aerospace industry, you are not the only one. One estimate suggests the UK will need an additional 1.8 million engineers and technicians by 2025, including aerospace engineers to fill the many tens of thousands of vacancies in the UK aerospace industry.
Because of the specialized jobs, risks, and costs, many question whether aerospace opportunities are worth the effort. The answer is a definite yes. Read below to see some of the reasons why those pursuing aerospace careers can expect a wealth of opportunities ahead.
Getting Started
Whether you’re a graduate looking to cut your teeth in the industry or an already skilled professional searching for a new challenge, aerospace is, undoubtedly, one of the most prosperous environments thanks to the host of mechanical and technological updates continually gracing the industry.
Females as well as minorities often reject the idea of pursuing a career in aerospace engineering, either due to societal or cultural pressure and norms. Due to this, the aerospace industry remains white male dominated.
At least half of the aerospace labour force is over the age of 45, while almost 25% are over 55. These numbers shed light on the desperate need for students to be inspired to consider a career in the aerospace industry.
Why Aerospace?
The aerospace industry is robust in the UK. It plays a significant role in the culture of the nation, and many professionals in the field would admit that they once dreamed of becoming aerospace engineers.
This is due to the UK’s top-notch educational system, which has generated a large number of highly qualified professionals who are prepared to enter the workforce. The success of the British aircraft industry is also greatly influenced by the country’s highly developed infrastructure.
Those wishing to break into the industry have a lot of options. Due to the abundance of jobs available and the high number of businesses seeking to hire new employees, the industry is expanding. The fact that so many people require employment is one factor.
The aerospace industry is a great location to look for employment in a down economy. The UK government also makes significant financial investments in the sector. This is a result of the numerous advantages the industry offers the UK.
It’s also critical to recognize how fiercely competitive the UK aerospace business is. There are numerous aerospace businesses, and many people are competing for market share. This implies that becoming the most excellent possible version of oneself is vital for people who want to enter the sector.
The aerospace sector in the UK is flourishing, and it’s easy to understand why. The industry has a high demand for skilled workers, and there are many opportunities available.
Qualifications for Aerospace Study
The UK aerospace sector offers numerous ways to get engaged and innumerable possibilities to enter. Education and a degree in aerospace or a related field are one way.
That said, you must be a math prodigy who excels in problem-solving and creativity, have excellent technical proficiency, and have a passion for all things related to aviation and space exploration in order to thrive in aerospace engineering. If that describes you, think about majoring in aerospace engineering in college.
Average entry requirements for aerospace engineering are:
- UCAS points: 80 –200
- A-levels: A*A*A* – CDD
- Scottish Highers: AAAAA – AABB (or Advanced Higher AAA – AB)
- BTEC Nationals: may be accepted alongside A-levels
- International Baccalaureate: 40–32
A-level coursework in math, physics or another science or engineering subject is typically required by colleges.
This sector of the economy makes a sizable contribution and may provide UK residents with long-term employment.
Aerospace Industry in the UK
The UK has the second-largest aerospace sector in the world, after the United States. The UK’s civil aerospace industry generated about $34.8 billion in revenue in 2020. The industry held a roughly 16 per cent share of the global market.
Even though the UK does not manufacture big civil aircraft, 97 per cent of domestic aerospace output is exported, making it the crown jewel of UK exports.
The UK is a world leader in the design and manufacture of aviation systems such as landing gear as well as engines, helicopters, wings, and structures.
Additionally, all Airbus aircraft platforms have wings that are designed and produced in the UK. The substantial number of military and commercial aircraft that travel to and from the UK each year are serviced by the UK’s thriving maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry.
In the UK, the aerospace MRO industry is thought to be composed of about 1,300 businesses that employ over 57,000 people.
The UK is home to more than 3,000 aerospace businesses, and in Europe, the aerospace industry has the largest concentration of SME businesses, supporting approximately 282,000 jobs both directly and indirectly. BAE Systems, Cobham, GKN, Meggitt, QinetiQ, Rolls-Royce, and Ultra Electronics are examples of domestic firms.
There are four key segments that make up the market. Space Applications account for more than two-thirds of the market’s overall revenue, with space operations, space manufacturing, and ancillary services making up the remaining percentages.
The UK is also a global leader in nano and tiny satellites. Investments in new and existing space technology and services are projected to continue, with funding coming primarily from business and venture capital, with assistance from the government.
Take to the Skies
It’s a lot of information to absorb, but the main take away is that the aerospace industry in the UK is the best place for aerospace graduates or skilled professionals to spread their wings.
Take a look at even more awesome aerospace opportunities and soar where eagles dare!
