Skills

THE NUMBER 1 AEROSPACE INDUSTRY IN EUROPE

As the number one aerospace industry in Europe, the UK appeals to global aerospace manufacturers because of its world class capabilities.

This high-technology, high-skill industry features a broad range of high-value disciplines, including engineering, science, project management, production, service, training and finance. As such, it remains at the forefront of new research and development (R&D). The UK aerospace sector directly employs almost 110,000 people across the country and many more in the supply chain, with an advanced manufacturing base providing work for around 3,000 companies of all sizes.

In particular, south west England has a strong presence of global players and generates a breadth of specialist technical knowledge for the aerospace sector. The region has a proven ability to produce spin-out companies with linkages and diversification into related sectors and has the largest amount of investment in aerospace for R&D in the UK. As a result, leading academic institutions produce high calibre graduates, and the region benefits from expertise in robotics, autonomous systems, composites, ceramics, avionics and other higher value added technologies.


Universities and Colleges

Universities and colleges offering advanced engineering courses in the South West:

 

Resources

News and Posts

Kyocera SGS to Relocate their European Headquarters

Kyocera SGS to Relocate their European Headquarters to Create Kyocera’s Largest Carbide Tooling Site in Europe As part of Kyocera Corporation’s global drive to become the world’s leading carbide tooling company, Kyocera SGS Precision Tools Europe Ltd (KSPTE) has...

Martyn’s Law Update

WEAF professional partner Castlemead Insurance have advised that a number of insurance policies now exclude terrorism from the public liability sections of their policies. The legislation commonly known as Martyn’s Law is currently in a 24 month implementation period....

Dorset Cluster Event Roundup – 5th November 2025

Members of the Dorset Cluster gathered at the impressive Battle Lab on the morning of 5th November 2025, for a series of inspiring and informative presentations and informal networking. The event began with an industry update from WEAF CEO Colin Turner, followed by...