Business Secretary Vince Cable visits the Farnborough International Airshow and calls on young people to pursue a career in aerospace
Vince Cable will be opening the Farnborough Airshow, one of the world’s most prestigious aviation events, with a speech at the Sustainable Aerospace Conference. This presentation will pledge support for the industry through skills development and appropriate research and development so that the UK can compete with international competitors.
Part of this support will manifest itself in a campaign to raise awareness about and boost the availability of apprenticeships to the industry. There is currently unmet employer demand for apprenticeships at advanced and higher level, particularly in sectors such as engineering. The Government is working to expand apprenticeships at Level 3 and above and is improving progression routes from foundation level and into higher levels and professional skills.
To prove his commitment to developing the strength of British aerospace Vince Cable has agreed to chair regular meetings with aerospace business leaders to facilitate better understanding between industry strategy and government policy. In the run up to the 2010 opening of the Farnborough Airshow Cable said: “I am looking forward to visiting the world’s leading British aerospace companies at today’s show, where I am hoping to see firsthand everything from the enormous A380 to intricate brake discs.
“The breadth of expertise in this sector is incredible, but for our industry to maintain its position in the global market, we will need a new generation of inspired workers with the skills and new ideas to push aerospace forwards.
“This government working together with industry will support the sector by delivering the right skills where they are needed most.
“We will encourage a new generation of talent by investing in high level apprenticeships and sustaining a high-performing research environment.”
To Capitalise on the vocal support coming from government this year to recruit fresh talent to aerospace this year’s show will be holding a special Futures Day on Friday July 23. This day will be dedicated to young people between the ages of 7 and 21 and aims to demonstrate to them the most exciting possibilities of a career in aerospace. Organisations participating in this new addition to Farnborough’s event attractions include: Airbus, Bloodhound, the Oxford Aviation Academy and the Science and Society Team.
Business Minister Mark Prisk will also attend the Air Show where he will chair the Airbus meeting with other European ministers. While at the show Mark Prisk will meet with ADS, trade delegations and small businesses from the aerospace sector. Prisk said: “Aerospace is a huge regional employer and is the engine of many regional economies so I am looking forward to meeting some of the small businesses who play a vital role in the aerospace supply chain.
“The air show will also be a great opportunity for me to meet trade delegations and encourage more international business in this sector.
“Exports account for 69 per cent of aerospace sales which is vital for both this industry and for boosting the UK economy.”
