A newly published report by Engineers Ireland (EI) has revealed that Ireland will require more than 22,300 additional engineers over the next ten years, necessitating significant reforms within the education system to address the predicted shortfall.

The report, titled 'From Awareness to Action: Engineers Ireland advocating for engineering outreach', was released to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the organisation's educational outreach programme, STEPS. It highlights substantial gaps in Ireland's current STEM education landscape, with a particular focus on the teaching and promotion of engineering.

The stark projection of an engineering talent shortage over the coming decade raises concerns about Ireland's continued economic growth and its capacity to deliver crucial infrastructure projects and attract foreign direct investment. The report indicates that only 9.8% of graduates in Ireland come from engineering disciplines, a figure almost half the global average. Furthermore, only 4% of female graduates are in engineering, and Higher Education Authority statistics show that female students comprise just 25% of those enrolled in engineering and construction courses at third level. Currently, women make up approximately 12% of the engineering workforce.

-- Advertisement --

The report puts forward several recommendations to increase the number of individuals entering the engineering profession. These include the establishment of a centre of excellence dedicated to engineering outreach and the development of best practice STEM guidance, reforms to STEM curricula in schools, and increased promotion of alternative entry routes into engineering, such as apprenticeships.

Earlier this year, Engineers Ireland's 'Engineering 2025' barometer report had already indicated existing recruitment challenges within the sector. That report found that 84% of engineering employers agreed that there were ample job opportunities available, with a third reporting that it had taken them between six and twelve months to fill a vacant engineering position in the previous year.

Dr Keith Sunderland, co-author of the latest report and Registrar at Engineers Ireland, stated: "Current projections point to a worrying shortage of engineering talent in the years to come, which may threaten Ireland's ability to thrive in a technology-driven, knowledge-based global economy. Since its inception 25 years ago, STEPS, Engineers Ireland's educational outreach programme, has successfully engaged more than two million children, introducing them to the inspiring world of engineering. More, however, can be done to promote engineering and STEM subjects within our schools, ensuring that our young people are prepared to avail of the incredible opportunities that a career in engineering can provide while simultaneously providing the workforce to safeguard this country's future."