IET responds to national skills drive to unlock opportunities for young people in tech

Stephanie Baxter, Head of Policy at the Institution of Engineering and Technology responds.

Stephanie Baxter, Head of Policy at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, said: “The launch of the government’s “TechFirst” programme, including the investment in “TechYouth”, will give pupils across the country the crucial opportunity to develop the skills to harness digital technologies like AI.

“Our 2025 Skills Survey found that nearly a quarter of engineering and technology employers do not currently use AI software or equipment, but plan to do so in the future, despite six-in-ten employers acknowledging that it will improve productivity.

"The “TechFirst" programme is a welcome initiative to close this gap between ambition and adoption by equipping more young people entering the skills pipeline with these crucial skills. But government should ensure that as well as equipping the future workforce with skills in emerging technologies, they also provide flexible and accessible funding through the new Growth and Skills Levy for employers to upskill their existing workforce.

“Introducing a greater focus on digital skills and emerging technologies in schools is welcome, but education in AI must equip young people with both the skills to use AI, and an understanding of its limitations, vulnerabilities and impact on the environment. By understanding how and why digital technologies like AI work, we can empower the next generation to harness AI in a secure, responsible and sustainable way.” 

ENDS

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Rebecca Gillick
External Communications Manager
E: rgillick@theiet.org