Engineers needed for every link in the supply chain

Many reports continue to call for more qualified engineers to work in the many sectors of the U.K. science and engineering sectors. There is also some evidence that more students are choosing the necessary STEM subjects. However, an article in The Engineer magazine examines the suggestion that it is SMEs in the supply chains to the key sectors that are particularly struggling to find the right people. In the motor industry for example, there are other opportunities as well as working for names such as Jaguar and Landrover. Paul Everitt who heads up the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) comments “Whilst people might want to get into the automotive sector they might not necessarily see some of those supply chain companies as the route they want to go, so that’s a challenge.” For more on the picture of other supply chain options read the full article at http://www.theengineer.co.uk/in-depth/analysis/smes-likely-to-see-the-largest-need-for-graduate-recruitment/1014229.article

The latest in car design – steer-by-wire control

Usually found on aircraft rather than cars, steer-by wire controls will be used in a new Nissan car due to be launched in 2013. According to an article on the BBC Technology page, Nissan says that the move away from the current hydraulic and mechanical system will mean ‘ an improved driving experience as the driver’s intentions would be transmitted to the wheels faster than by using a hydraulic and mechanical system.’ With further developments, it could also mean further freedom for car designers as the steering wheel could be located in different areas within the vehicle. The technology may also contribute to the development of driverless cars. There is some history of similar technology being used in the braking systems of different vehicles with varying degrees of success. For the history and future of electronic, rather than mechanical, design in car manufacturing, visit the BBC website http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19979380

Engineering – how much do qualifications improve salary prospects?

Has all your time spent in lectures and engineering labs been worth it? Does time studying improve your salary prospects? The answer may be both ‘yes’ and ‘no’ according to recent articles on The Engineer magazine website. Results from a study commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineers found that those with an engineering qualification could achieve a 15% wage premium compared to the average UK salary. When compared to a career in finance or business this may not be considered very large but Stephen Harris’ article looks at the situation from a different angle. Other data shows engineering graduates earning 32% more than someone with two ‘A’ Levels; the average graduate earning just 27% more than that same ‘A’ Level qualified recruit. In addition engineering salaries ‘rose sharply with experience’ suggesting an industry sector that values such experience. Read more on this analysis of the value of engineering qualifications on The Engineer website http://www.theengineer.co.uk/opinion/comment/how-much-is-an-engineer-worth/1014095.article#ixzz28ix9JdLK

Another great Olympic team – the engineers behind 2012

The athletes, the volunteers and the great British public have all been celebrated but what about the other team who ‘made’ the Olympics? In the latest edition of The Engineer magazine, ‘The Gamesmakers’ article looks at the people behind the engineering infrastructure for the opening and closing ceremonies. In an interview with Piers Shepperd, the ceremony’s technical director, there is a fascinating insight into how the needs of the ceremony were built into the stadium right from the start. In particular, a huge aerial cable-net system was needed involving a mass of remote-control winches and trolleys. Timing was vital to avoid collisions between such things as 32 Mary Poppins and an 18ft Voldemort. Thomas Heatherwick’s design for the cauldron involved making 23 tonnes of metal compact enough to fit on the 18m diameter lift below the stage. For more on the range of engineering expertise behind the ceremony, read page 16 of the latest digital edition http://www.centaur2.co.uk/emags/theengineer/te-092012/

PPMA 2012 at the NEC – for all involved in process and production.

Wherever your responsibilities lie in the production chain from food processing to filling machinery or packaging innovations, this year’s PPMA show at Birmingham has a lot to offer. The annual exhibition from the Process and Packaging Machinery Association takes place at the NEC from the 25- 27^th September with nearly 300 stands and a machinery advice area with representatives from the PPMA itself. Industry sectors represented cover everything from pharmaceuticals and confectionary to publishing and energy management. The exhibition also features a series of live debates at ‘The Manufacturing Forum’, hosted by the editors of Packaging News, Process Engineering and Machinery Update. Topics to be discussed include industry training, sustainability in the packaging industry and the issues surrounding introducing new pack innovations. For all those involved in production management or process engineering, read more about the event here and register for free. http://www.ppmashow.co.uk/

Success for Nailsworth engineering firm

Fluid Transfer International, based in Nailsworth, has secured a major £2.11 million deal in Indonesia. The engineering company, which supplies aircraft refuelling units for aircraft throughout the world, will now supply 22 hydrant dispenser vehicles to the national oil company of Indonesia. They will be used throughout the country’s airports. Managing director, John Little, speaking in South West Business News, said that the company ‘would be recruiting assembly, production and project engineers for the period of the contract’ meaning 25 new jobs for the area. Mr Little also said that the company had also been working hard ‘to win orders overseas’ after initially being more dependent on the UK defence industry. Winning the Indonesia order also involved advice and support from the Gloucestershire Chamber of Commerce and local M.P. Richard Graham. For more details of the company’s success read the full article here http://www.southwestbusiness.co.uk/news/24072012074439-engineering-firm-secures--2-1m-airport-deal/

Opportunities in process engineering

Often overlooked in some career discussions on engineering, process engineering can offer good prospects in many different industrial sectors. An article on The Engineer website discusses the options in process engineering from  the chemical and pharmaceutical industries to polymer production and the nuclear industry. According to a regional industry body, the process sectors are expected to need 10,000 skilled engineers over the next ten years — just in their region. For those wanting more information about the role of a process engineer and career progression, Cogent, the sector skills council for many related industries have put together an online tool to look at an engineer’s options. The article is very positive about the role’s potential. ‘For those tempted by  a career in process engineering, not only will their skills be in demand, but they will also  have a chance to innovate in areas that can have a profound impact on society.’ Read more: http://www.theengineer.co.uk/skills-and-careers/in-depth/healing-process-careers-in-the-process-sector/1013154.article#ixzz23Qy8wTPR