Building the modern chemicals workforce

Industry insights provided by Ian Stewart, Head of Regional Engagement, IChemE

The future chemicals workforce depends on more than graduate numbers. Young people need earlier, clearer insight into the breadth of careers available before they make subject choices. Many still associate chemistry with laboratory work, overlooking opportunities in process engineering, regulation, sustainability, data and operations. Campaigns such as IChemE’s DiscoverChemEng are helping broaden awareness, but sustained engagement is needed to position the chemical industries as a first-choice destination for both academic and vocational talent.

Modern chemical professionals need a blend of technical and professional capabilities. Alongside strong scientific and engineering foundations, employers value communication, teamwork, curiosity, commercial awareness and adaptability. As AI, modelling and digital tools become embedded in industrial processes, professionals must also develop digital literacy and critical thinking to use technology responsibly and effectively. Site experience remains equally important, turning theoretical learning into practical understanding and building confidence in real operational environments.

Industrial placements and graduate development programmes are vital bridges between education and employment. Graduates with workplace experience are often better prepared to contribute from the outset, yet securing placements is becoming increasingly difficult. This creates a persistent challenge: employers seek experience, while students struggle to access the opportunities needed to gain it. Closer collaboration between industry and education providers can help expand placements, strengthen curricula and ensure learning reflects emerging needs in automation, sustainability, data analytics and regulatory compliance.

The challenge extends beyond graduate recruitment. Many organisations face shortages of experienced mid-career engineers: the professionals who lead projects, mentor colleagues and connect graduate talent with senior leadership. Retaining and developing these people is critical, particularly as some move into management, consulting or adjacent sectors. Clear progression routes, continuous learning and meaningful professional development are therefore essential throughout a career.

Events such as CHEMUK can support this agenda by bringing together educators, employers, students and industry experts. Through networking, content and innovation showcases, they help make career pathways more visible while encouraging collaboration across the sector.

Building a resilient chemicals workforce requires action from the earliest stages of education through to mid-career retention. By broadening awareness, increasing practical opportunities and developing both technical and human skills, the sector can create a diverse, adaptable workforce ready to drive sustainable growth and innovation.

Find out more:

• CHEMUK
• Read the full skills gap report

BVAA is proud to be a CHEMUK Headline Partner, and will be exhibiting again in 2027! Visit us on Stand J92.

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