Engineering the next generation

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and ITN Productions have launched a news and current affairs-style programme ‘Engineering the Next Generation,’ which explores the challenges, careers and future of modern engineering in the UK.

With the government announcing the £229m of industrial strategy investment, ‘Engineering the Next Generation’ brings to life the opportunities and challenges the sector in the UK faces, the changes in policy and long term impact on the UK economy.

‘Engineering the Next Generation’ showcases the work being done to attract our future generations to engineering and the diverse range of jobs available in this sector, many which are unknown to career seekers. The programme also looks into how work experience and apprenticeships play a vital role in attracting the younger generation into a rewarding and life-long career in engineering.

Drawing upon ITN’s 60 year heritage and expertise in storytelling, the news-style piece combines key interviews including Alison Carr, director of governance and policy from the IET and Great British Bake Off star Andrew Smyth. The programme also includes stories from leading organisations including Bosch UK, EPSRC, G-Research, Johnson & Johnson Medical Limited, National Composites Centre, NM group, Reaction Engine Ltd, Thales, TTP plc and University of Strathclyde.

The programme will form part of an extensive communications campaign featuring industry partners, as well as relevant journalists, writers and bloggers.

Alison Carr, IET director of policy, said: “Our new online programme ‘Engineering the Next Generation’ addresses the current, most important challenges we are facing in the engineering and technology industry as well as showcasing the huge range of exciting and rewarding opportunities engineering presents. Engineers are creators, inventors and innovators and we hope this programme inspires the next generation of talent, who will play a vital role in shaping our future.”

Simon Shelley, head of industry news, ITN Productions, said: “ITN Productions are delighted to have partnered with The Institution of Engineering and Technology to explore the future of engineering, what is being done to attract young people into engineering and the extensive range of careers available in modern engineering. By examining the importance of engineering we hope to contribute to the debate on how we ensure the growth, talent and perceptions of the sector.”

To watch 'Engineering the Next Generation', please visit the IET's website: www.theiet.org/itn