South East Spotlight | Owen Daniels | Powering Global STEM

25th July 2024

South East Spotlight: A Hub of Innovation and Opportunity in STEM and Manufacturing

The South East of the UK is experiencing a wave of dynamic changes that are shaping the future of critical sectors, particularly STEM, engineering, and manufacturing. As a region known for its economic vitality and innovation, the South East is emerging as a focal point for new developments and opportunities. We have explored the last 6 months across these sectors and the impact these updates are having on the surrounding areas.

Growth in High-Tech Manufacturing

One of the most notable trends in the South East is the significant growth in high-tech manufacturing. The Oxford Science Park, a prominent research and development hub, has recently announced a £100 million expansion. This expansion will include the construction of new facilities dedicated to high-tech and biotech companies, aimed at driving innovation in precision engineering, robotics, and advanced materials. This aligns with the overall growth in the UK's high-tech manufacturing sector, which saw a 7.4% increase in output in 2023.

The influx of high-tech manufacturing projects is creating a wealth of job opportunities for skilled professionals in fields such as mechanical engineering, industrial design, and process optimisation. The region now accounts for 15% of the UK's total high-tech manufacturing jobs.

Automotive Engineering Innovations

The automotive sector in the South East is also undergoing a significant transformation. In Surrey and Hampshire, there has been a marked increase in investment in electric vehicle (EV) technology and autonomous driving systems. The University of Surrey’s new research centre for autonomous vehicle technology is a prime example of this shift. This centre is a collaborative effort between the university and major automotive manufacturers, designed to push the boundaries of EV and autonomous vehicle technology.

The UK’s EV market saw a 66% increase in new registrations in 2023, with the South East playing a significant role in this growth. This focus on innovation is driving demand for engineers with expertise in EV systems, battery technology, and autonomous vehicle algorithms. Job postings in EV and autonomous vehicle sectors in the South East have risen by 30% over the past year, potentially creating up to 2,000 new jobs in the coming years.

Aerospace and Defence Sector Expansion

The aerospace and defence industries remain robust in the South East, particularly around Farnborough and Portsmouth. Farnborough International Airport has unveiled plans for a major upgrade aimed at attracting more aerospace companies to the area. This upgrade is expected to stimulate growth in the local aerospace sector, with new facilities and infrastructure supporting increased research and development activities.

Meanwhile, in Portsmouth, BAE Systems is expanding its naval shipbuilding and maintenance operations. This expansion is not only boosting the local economy but also generating numerous job opportunities for aerospace and defence engineers. The UK aerospace industry grew by 4.1% in 2023, with the South East contributing significantly to this growth. The demand for professionals in this sector includes roles in naval architecture, defence systems engineering, and project management, with BAE Systems alone expecting to add 800 new jobs.

Renewable Energy Initiatives

The South East is also making significant strides in renewable energy. Kent, in particular, is at the forefront of offshore wind energy projects. The recent expansion of the Thanet Offshore Wind Farm is a testament to the region’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. This project is expected to create a variety of engineering roles, including those related to turbine design, installation, and maintenance. The UK’s offshore wind capacity increased by 10% in 2023, with the South East playing a crucial role. Job postings for renewable energy roles in the South East have increased by 25% in the past year.

Educational and Training Advancements

To support the growing demand for skilled professionals across these sectors, the South East is enhancing its educational and training offerings. Universities such as the University of Reading and the University of Sussex are expanding their engineering programs to address the needs of modern industries. Enrolment in STEM programs at these universities has increased by 15% over the past two years. Additionally, specialised training centres, like the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre in Milton Keynes, are providing hands-on training and apprenticeship programs.

Conclusion

The South East of the UK is a region on the rise, with significant developments across STEM, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. From high-tech manufacturing and automotive innovations to aerospace, defence, and renewable energy, the region is a hub of activity and opportunity. As these sectors continue to grow, so too do the recruitment opportunities for skilled professionals. In total, these developments are expected to create over 7,000 new jobs in the South East across various sectors.

At Owen Daniels, our mission is to empower the industries we serve by discovering top-tier talent and matching them with the right roles. Whether you're an experienced engineer, a recent graduate, or a company looking for exceptional talent, the South East is brimming with opportunities in the ever-evolving world of STEM and engineering.