IAAPS Executive Director & UK-HyRES academic Chris Brace contributed insights and expertise for the Committee’s inquiry into skills for transport manufacturing.
Applied research and skills provision delivered by the University of Bath and IAAPS were highlighted in Parliament on Wednesday 22 October as part of the Transport Select Committee’s inquiry into skills for transport manufacturing.
The inquiry focuses on the UK’s long tradition of manufacturing motor vehicles, buses, aircraft, trains and ships, and on growing concerns within the sector about skills shortages. These industries play a vital role in local economies and supply high-quality, British-built equipment for companies both in the UK and internationally.
The Committee is examining how current and future skills needs can be met and how Government can better support the sector through targeted planning and investment.
Drawing on a recent joint University of Bath submission from IAAPS and the Institute of Coding, Professor Brace shared insights on how IAAPS’ work sits at the interface of engineering, digital innovation, education and skills — including through its Centre for Doctoral Training.
Commenting after the session, he said: “It was a pleasure to contribute to the Committee’s important inquiry into skills for transport manufacturing on behalf of the University and IAAPS.
“As the transport sector rapidly evolves in response to new technologies and sustainability challenges, we are seeing significant shifts in the types of skills needed. We work closely with industry to ensure that our training – from undergraduate programmes to doctoral research – combines academic rigour with practical application.
“Our focus is on developing engineers who can contribute from day one, and equipping researchers with the cross-disciplinary skills required to navigate complex innovation landscapes. We’re also working with industry and FE providers to address emerging skills gaps in areas such as hydrogen and cryogenics through apprenticeships and CPD.
“Universities like ours have a key role to play in supporting the sector through this transition, and we look forward to continuing that contribution.”
Professor Brace appeared on a witness panel alongside Dr Benjamin Silverstone (Associate Professor and Director, Warwick Manufacturing Group) and Oriel Petry (Senior Vice-President, Airbus).
MPs’ questions covered topics including addressing specific skills gaps in transport manufacturing, increasing uptake of STEM subjects at earlier ages, diversifying the future workforce, and strengthening collaboration between universities and industry to meet these challenges.
The Committee will report its findings and recommendations later this year.