Survey looks ahead to future of quality in Welsh industry

15 February 2012

Posted by Satvir Bhullar

The future prosperity of Wales is dependent upon developing the right skills to meet demand from industry.

According to a new study, which has examined what is in store for the nation over the next two decades, much needs to be done to ensure it is "profitable and prosperous".

Compiled by the Wales Quality Centre (WQC) and Opinion Research Services (ORS), the research indicates that energy and raw materials prices are likely to rise over the coming years, making it imperative that the UK becomes "super-efficient" in the use and development of new technologies.

In addition, there were concerns about skills that have led to a call for improvements in educational standards in Wales, action to raise expectations among pupils, greater links with business and industry and a refocusing of the curriculum to meet future manufacturing needs, such as engineering skills.

The organizations sought input from a range of businesses in the country and the WQC has now launched its Wales 2030 campaign as part of efforts to make sure the nation remains competitive in light of the rapidly growing economies in the BRIC countries of Brazil, Russia, India and China.

According to the report, the next two decades are likely to see manufacturing hubs created in Europe and higher exports to the east, with dramatic changes forecast for products, services and systems that will make innovation more important than ever.

In its recently released annual report, EngineeringUK stated that skills shortages in the sector are placing the country's competitiveness at risk and more needs to be done to create secure energy markets.

The body launched the publication at Number 11 Downing Street and highlighted the need for greater investment to ensure the future success of industry in Britain, particularly as the global low-carbon market is expected to expand to be worth £4.5 trillion by 2015.

"Addressing the imbalance between demand and the right level of engineering skills is a generational challenge," declared EngineeringUK Chief Executive, Paul Jackson.

"There is a massive opportunity here for industry. The government and the engineering sector must now grip this challenge and make Britain the watchword for low carbon engineering expertise."