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Context
The sector profiles which are contained within this section are the result of the primary research conducted by the RLSP over a period of six months ranging between January and June 2017.
The evidence displayed was gathered via a range of qualitative research methods, including electronic surveys, sector cluster groups and semi-structured interviews. Adopting a qualitative approach to the collection of this information allowed the RLSP to gather the in-depth views of a number of employers from around the region, many of whom remain highly engaged with the process.
The qualitative nature of the information presented should be considered in conjunction with existing secondary quantitative research such as the Employer Skills Survey for 2015. Where possible the primary information shown has been supported by sector specific secondary evidence.
The profiles are intended to provide a representative summary of the views of the industry representatives and employers with whom the RLSP engaged with throughout the development and completion of this plan.
3.1 Advanced Materials, Manufacturing and Energy
Defining the sector
Wales has a long standing tradition and rich heritage in heavy industry, engineering and manufacturing. A skilled workforce and high level of expertise coupled with innovation steered by collaboration between key employers, WG and academic institutions makes the sector a key economic driver for the region of South West and Mid Wales.
Most recent statistics indicate that over 21,700 people are employed within the sector in the region, with the highest incidences occurring in Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire. The sector is broad and categorised by sub-sectors such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical, defence, food, rail, technology and materials.
3.1.1 Employer Evidence
Recruitment and Retention
Recruitment rather than retention is a key issue for the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing sector with employers feeling that the perception of the sector is a significant contributing factor. The sector is one that is particularly reliant on vocational forms of training which further exacerbates the difficulties in recruitment as the perception of Apprenticeships is poor and mis-informed. Additionally, many companies are awaiting approval of major infrastructure projects which poses challenges in recruiting individuals at all, given the lack of financial capacity to employ staff ‘at risk’.
Employers reported that the recruitment of experienced individuals especially within engineering, specialist and technical areas is a significant challenge. Furthermore, challenging market conditions and uncertainty are causing some retention issues as staff strive to find jobs that offer some stability and security.
Suitability of Skills Provision
There is a clear demand from employers for increased ‘on the job’ training which in the majority of instances doesn’t need to be accredited. There is a need to develop further flexibility within training offered. The requirement from HE/FE/EU funding for accredited projects is a barrier to some training activity and not representative of the needs of employers, in this instance outputs should be measured on the number of jobs secured or contracts won etc.
Regional Employment & Skills Plan South West & Mid Wales Sector Profiles