AFBE-UK Scotland: The Engineering Ethnicity Index (EEI) Sets a New Standard for Diversity & Inclusion

By Dr Ollie Folayan MBE, Co-Chair of AFBE-UK Scotland

Engineering thrives on innovation, yet its workforce continues to fall short in reflecting the diversity of society.

Ethnic minorities continue to be underrepresented in the UK engineering workforce, comprising just 12.4% in 2023, compared to 16% across all other occupations. This disparity exists even though 31% of undergraduate entrants to engineering and technology degrees were from minority ethnic backgrounds, a higher proportion than the 28% average across all subjects. Similarly, apprenticeship data shows that 14% of starts in engineering and technology-related apprenticeships in 2023/24 were by individuals from a UK minority ethnic background. These statistics highlight ongoing challenges in translating higher education and apprenticeship participation into representation within the engineering workforce. (*EngineeringUK Report).

This imbalance not only represents a missed opportunity for fairness but also for innovation and excellence. By failing to capitalise on the full breadth of talent, the sector risks falling behind in addressing complex challenges.

Read the full article >here<