Continued skills investment needed to stimulate growth, says IChemE

Better access to training is needed industry-wide, say survey respondents.

The Institution of Chemical Engineers’ (IChemE) latest Employment Survey results highlight areas where industry is prioritising skills development and draws attention to recruitment barriers experienced across the sector. The survey gathered responses from 2,503 IChemE members and 875 employers at the end of 2025.

Skills gaps were found in key industrial sectors, such as cleantech and sustainability, as well as advanced manufacturing and defence. Working to solve recruitment challenges experienced across the sector will help provide long-term stability across the sector and drive future growth.

Technical skills were highlighted as being lacking, other skills shortages identified include problem solving and critical thinking, adaptability and resilience, understanding of safety and risk management, and digital skills.

‘The skills needed across the sector are extremely diverse, covering areas from modelling and simulation, sustainability skills, process design, to process safety and beyond,’ explained Yvonne Baker, CEO of IChemE. ‘It is also clear from the survey that the industry expects to see an even greater shift towards sustainability in the future, with net-zero, the circular economy and sustainable processes driving meaningful change.

‘Digital transformation is also a key area for future skills with AI, machine learning and automation all cited as areas for development,’ continued Baker.