Precision engineers, once the backbone of the UK’s manufacturing industry and respected worldwide for their skills, are facing a critical decline. Their numbers have dwindled over the past 25 years, pushing them towards becoming an ‘endangered species’ within the skilled workforce.
The decline stems from several factors. The overall contraction of the UK’s engineering sector has led many experienced precision engineers to seek opportunities in other fields, resulting in an irreplaceable loss of expertise. Simultaneously, there’s a concerning lack of new talent entering the profession. Fewer school leavers are choosing precision engineering due to perceptions of it being a physically demanding, less glamorous career path with potentially lower initial remuneration compared to other sectors. The extensive training period, often requiring six to seven years to achieve full skill mastery, and the scarcity of traditional apprenticeships further deter potential entrants. The appeal of immediate earnings in less demanding roles often outweighs the long-term benefits of learning a trade.
To combat the skills shortage, many companies have turned to recruiting precision engineers from within the European Union, particularly from Eastern European countries like Poland and the Baltic states. While these skilled workers are a welcome addition and help fill the immediate gap, relying heavily on foreign labor is not a sustainable long-term solution.
However, some companies, like Machined Precision Components Ltd in Watton, Norfolk, are bucking this trend. They invest in time-served, fully apprenticed precision engineers with an average of over 20 years of experience. According to director David Isbell, this wealth of experience allows them to deliver the highest quality products competitively and efficiently. Their skilled engineers are key to providing a superior service in all areas of their business.
While the number of precision engineers in the UK may be diminishing, the dedication and expertise of those remaining continue to uphold the high standards of the profession. Addressing the root causes of the decline, such as promoting engineering careers, revitalizing apprenticeship programs, and investing in training initiatives, is crucial to ensure the future of precision engineering in the UK.