New research published last week by
EngineeringUK reveals a strong appetite among parents, carers, and guardians for their children to pursue careers in engineering, science, and technology — with 79% finding engineering and science appealing, and 81% favouring technology. However, despite this enthusiasm, the study highlights a concerning lack of confidence among parents when it comes to advising on STEM career pathways.
Engineering, in particular, emerged as the area where parental confidence is lowest. Over half (55%) of respondents said they were not confident discussing engineering careers, with nearly a quarter (23%) admitting they were “not at all confident.” The gender gap was also notable: 58% of fathers reported feeling confident giving STEM careers advice, compared to just 25% of mothers — the widest disparity seen in the engineering category.
This lack of confidence appears to stem from limited awareness of the diverse entry routes into the sector. While 42% of parents said they were familiar with university degrees, only 20% felt knowledgeable about apprenticeships, 15% about vocational qualifications, 12% about BTECs, and a mere 5% about T Levels. Alarmingly, 43% of parents in England said they had either never heard of T Levels or were unsure if they had.
Great career opportunitiesBecca Gooch, head of research at EngineeringUK, said “While schools play an important role in providing careers advice, we know that parents are the most consulted source of careers information by young people. It is encouraging that parents recognise engineering and tech as offering great career opportunities, but we must ensure they are equipped to support their children in exploring the full range of entry routes.”
Among parents who viewed engineering as an appealing career, the top reasons cited were strong earning potential (73%), the ability to work across multiple industries (63%), and the engaging nature of the work (61%). Despite this, over a quarter (27%) of parents felt their child would be unlikely to achieve a career in engineering — even if they wanted to pursue it. This again points to a lack of understanding around the accessibility and diversity of pathways into the profession.
Jo Hollingdale, senior careers inspiration manager at EngineeringUK, concluded: “With so much growth and endless opportunities to make a real-world impact, it’s a really exciting time for young people to embark on a career in engineering and technology. From climate change and digital transformation to healthcare and aerospace, there truly is a role for everyone.”