CIBSE expresses its delight upon reviewing the latest findings from the Engineering UK Graduate Outcomes Research Report. Released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), this comprehensive report delves into the professional trajectories of engineering and technology graduates, providing valuable insights into their employment status, job roles and perceptions of their qualifications.
Here are the top 5 takeaways from the report:
- High employment rates: Engineering and technology graduates exhibit higher employability rates compared to graduates from other disciplines. This reaffirms the robust demand for skilled professionals in the engineering and technology sectors.
- Alignment with career paths: A significant portion of engineering and technology graduates, over two-thirds, transition into roles directly related to their field of study. However, there remains a noticeable gender disparity, with men outnumbering women in these roles.
- Financial rewards: Graduates employed in engineering and technology positions enjoy above-average earning potential. This underscores the economic value and market relevance of engineering qualifications in today's workforce.
- Perceived relevance: The majority of engineering and technology graduates view their degree as directly applicable to their current job roles. This sentiment reflects a strong alignment between academic training and industry requirements, fostering a sense of professional fulfilment and career progression.
- Persistent challenges: Despite advancements, disparities persist in terms of representation. Women, individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds and Black/Black British (Caribbean) young people remain underrepresented in engineering and technology degree programs, highlighting the ongoing need for targeted interventions to promote diversity and inclusivity within the field.
Ruth Carter, CIBSE's Chief Executive said: 'CIBSE welcomes the insights provided by the Engineering UK Graduate Outcomes Research Report, especially as they illuminate the pathways of young engineers entering the profession. These findings underscore the significance of supporting and empowering new professionals as they embark on their careers. At CIBSE, we are dedicated to nurturing talent, promoting diversity and equipping young engineers with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.'
The CIBSE Graduate membership is available to graduates who completed their studies in Science, Technology Engineering or Maths within the last five years. Graduate members who have completed learning which meets the academic requirements for IEng or CEng can also register for Interim Registration with the Engineering Council.
'Being a member of CIBSE has been instrumental in advancing my career in numerous ways. One of the most valuable benefits is the abundance of resources that CIBSE offers, such as technical publications, guidelines, and industry updates. These resources are indispensable for any building services engineer, and they consistently help me expand my knowledge and stay current with the latest developments in the industry.' Lewis Turner, Graduate Mechanical Engineer, Graduate member of CIBSE.
Lewis came second at the 2023 REHVA Student Competition and second at the 2023 CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year Award.
CIBSE acknowledges the significance of these findings in shaping educational policies, industry practices and diversity initiatives within the engineering and technology sectors. By leveraging these insights, stakeholders can formulate strategic interventions to foster a more inclusive, dynamic and thriving workforce.
As advocates for excellence in building services engineering, CIBSE remains committed to promoting education, professional development and equitable opportunities for all aspiring engineers. The insights gathered from the Engineering UK Graduate Outcomes Research Report serve as a catalyst for collective action towards a more diverse, resilient and innovative engineering landscape.