Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - June 2026
Addressing Future Engineering Needs
The VDI's "Future Germany 2050" initiative highlights a pressing concern for the engineering sector: the need to attract and train young engineers to meet future demands. Skills shortage: What engineering skills will be needed in the future This isn't just an issue in Germany; it affects the UK as well, where procurement managers and maintenance engineers face skills shortages that could impact their operations.
What Are the Key Engineering Skills Needed?
To address the skills gap, the initiative focuses on areas such as automation, AI, cybersecurity, and sustainable technologies. For instance, by 2035, there will be a demand for around 148,000 engineers skilled in AI across Europe alone, according to a report from McKinsey & Company.
How Will This Affect the UK Engineering Sector?
The skills shortage is likely to increase competition for qualified personnel. Procurement managers and workshop owners must adapt by investing more in training programmes and developing partnerships with educational institutions to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers. Without these initiatives, companies risk falling behind due to a lack of expertise.
What Can Component Suppliers Do Now?
Component suppliers need to stay ahead of the curve by offering advanced materials and products that cater to new technologies. For example, MLC's product categories like hydraulic components (ISO 1219-3), pneumatic fittings (EN 843), and mechanical power transmission parts (DIN 760) will see increased demand for items made from high-tech alloys such as Inconel or advanced polymers.
Training Programs Are important
Training programmes are important to bridge the skills gap. Companies like Rolls-Royce, Siemens Gamesa, and BAE Systems have already begun training initiatives targeting young engineers. These efforts help ensure that future generations of technicians will be well-equipped to handle complex systems and emerging technologies.
Collaboration Is Key
Collaboration between industry leaders, educational institutions, and government bodies is vital for addressing the skills shortage effectively. The UK's Engineering Technology Board (ETB) and the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) are actively working on such collaborations.
Specific Product Categories to Watch
In light of increased automation and robotics in manufacturing processes, pneumatic cylinders (BS EN ISO 15552), hydraulic valves (ISO 4401), and mechanical power transmission parts (DIN 760) will become more critical. These components are foundational for the advanced machinery that relies on precision engineering.
What Are the Long-Term Implications?
Long-term implications include a shift towards higher-value manufacturing processes and greater reliance on technology-driven solutions. At Skills shortage: What engineering skills will be needed in the future, procurement managers must anticipate these changes by sourcing high-quality materials early, such as stainless steel grades like A2-70 or carbon steels like EN8, which are standard in many applications.
Conclusion
Addressing the engineering skills shortage requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. By focusing on training and innovation, UK companies can stay competitive and meet future demands for advanced technologies and skilled personnel. MLC remains committed to providing up-to-date resources and products that support these efforts.