At a time when one in five engineering graduates is from overseas, ICOM believes that more needs to be done to attract people into the sector.

Ross Anderson, Director at ICOM said “We are facing a very serious skills shortage, experienced talent is being lost and currently we aren’t replacing it in anywhere near the numbers we need. 

Evidence shows that school children, can be turned off engineering very early in their lives. Engineering is seen as dirty job so as an industry we have a responsibility to make it identifiable for young people.

Many have little idea of what engineering is, or the exciting opportunities and careers open to them should they choose to follow this path. We need to be relevant, explaining the different types of engineering and how almost every modern day product is the result of an engineer. From the oil we use in our vehicle - chemical engineer, to the smart phone in our pocket – electronic engineer through to the boiler that keeps us warm – heating engineer.

We need to intervene now if we are to stop the ‘engineering is dirty work’ mind-set continuing. We have to work with schools and colleges, challenge parents perceptions and show young people just what engineers contribute to their lives.

During Science and Engineering Week, 13^th–22^nd March, we will be profiling a range of engineers and encouraging all engineers to tweet a photo of themselves using #engineeringselfie, #ImAnEngineer and #getingofar   

Real, live engineers are the best advert for the profession and as we have celebrity chefs and celebrity doctors maybe it’s time for celebrity engineers.’