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

Business Growth Dorset

Dorset Council have been awarded funding from the Department for Business & Trade to deliver the pan-Dorset Growth Hub for the financial year 2025 – 2026. The official, pan-Dorset Growth Hub is now branded as Business Growth Dorset. Business Growth Dorset is part...

Free Cyber Action Toolkit

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, has launched a free Cyber Action Toolkit to help sole traders and small businesses strengthen their online security. With 42% of small businesses reporting cyber breaches in 2024, the toolkit offers simple,...

International Trade Week

International Trade Week (ITW) returns for its fifth edition from 3rd to 7th November, offering five days of free online and in-person events designed to help UK businesses grow through exporting. Led by the Department for Business and Trade and sponsored by Santander...

Airbus Launchpad – Expression of Interest

🚀 Airbus Launchpad opening early 2026 - a collaborative high-tech lab and workspace designed to accelerate innovation, partnership, and SME development within the UK’s space ecosystem. Located at our Stevenage site, this new facility will serve as a hub for...