The Engineering Barometer is an annual report from Engineers Ireland that tracks developments in engineering education, employment and perspectives. It has become an established resource for engineers, educators, policy-makers and recruiters.
Engineering is proving to be a robust industry in Ireland and has recovered strongly post the pandemic years and is predicting continued growth.
There are almost 8,000 new job opportunities anticipated for the sector this year. Experienced engineers are in high demand. We will need to continue attracting skilled global engineers and promoting STEM subjects in our schools to meet these opportunities now and into the future.
In 2023, 85% of members agreed that there are plenty of job opportunities in the sector. 92% of the public surveyed have said that engineers are highly competent professionals.
Separately to our surveys, we have analysed data from the State Examinations Commission. Turning to the Leaving Certificate Examination, data obtained from the Commission up to and including 2022, shows that the number of students sitting exams in STEM subjects at higher level, decreased by 7% while the overall number of students sitting the Leaving Certificate remained consistent to 2021.
Engineers are critical to combating climate change and biodiversity loss according to 70% of the public.