Is there a demand for civil engineers in the UK?

UK government plans may increase demand for civil engineers.

If you’ve ever wanted a career where you can make a real impact on the world around you, now is the perfect time to consider civil engineering.
The UK government has announced ambitious plans to reshape the country’s infrastructure, and this means one thing — huge opportunities for skilled civil engineers. From transport networks to housing developments, the demand for talent is set to soar. So, how can you be part of it? Keep reading to find out!

What are the new opportunities?

Recent government announcements have outlined ambitious infrastructure development plans for the UK and range from large-scale transport projects such as airport expansions to the construction of 1.5 million new homes. These plans present significant opportunities for skilled civil engineering graduates to start their career as well as challenges for the civil engineering sector, which requires fresh ideas.

The development of new transport networks, residential communities and associated infrastructure – including connecting roads, bridges, utilities and public spaces – requires a range of expertise. This growing demand highlights the urgent need to bridge the skills gap in the industry, as highlighted in Skills England’s report. As a result, career prospects for aspiring civil engineers are highly promising, offering opportunities for specialisation and fast career growth.

Government investment in local council infrastructure improvements represents another key development. This funding will not only enhance local communities but also stimulate economic growth and job creation. Civil engineers would play a crucial role in delivering these projects, from the design and planning stages through to construction and maintenance. Improvements to local transport networks, public amenities, active travel infrastructure in line with upcoming revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework and essential utilities all fall within the purview of civil engineering expertise.

The government's commitment to building 1.5 million new homes presents a particularly significant challenge and opportunity. This initiative goes beyond simply constructing houses; it involves creating sustainable and thriving communities. Civil engineers are integral to this process, responsible for designing and implementing the necessary infrastructure to support these new developments. This includes everything from road networks and drainage systems to schools, hospitals and recreational facilities. Transport and infrastructure will be an integral part of designing functional communities.

What does this mean for the civil engineering sector?

These government plans have a profound impact on the civil engineering sector, creating a wealth of opportunities for skilled professionals. The demand for expertise across a range of disciplines, from structural engineering and project management to surveying and geotechnical engineering, is set to increase significantly. Now is a great time for young adults and early career professionals to consider civil engineering — a career that is both challenging and rewarding, allowing you to make a real difference in society.

As larger projects draw in bigger companies, this also creates a wealth of opportunities that filter down the supply chain and into varied aspects of the industry in both site-based and office-based roles.

The government's efforts to create appealing career opportunities in construction are a positive step. Encouraging and training future civil engineers is key to delivering major infrastructure projects. This includes promoting STEM education, offering apprenticeships and graduate programmes, and strengthening industry-academia partnerships.

How can you benefit from these opportunities?

To reap the benefits from this opportunity, you ‘ll need to obtain a civil engineering-related degree that meets industry needs in the UK.

Coventry University’s civil engineering and civil and environmental engineering courses are designed alongside industry leaders and accredited by professional bodies, ensuring that you are fully prepared for the challenges ahead and become a qualified engineer. For example, our courses are accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT).

You can gain hands-on experience in structural design, construction management and sustainability. You will also become ready for the world-of-work and gain practical skills in our laboratories. This also includes using our Simulation Centre, where you get to experience real-life scenarios to help you gain practical experience.

Coventry University is also one of the largest civil engineering apprenticeship providers in the UK. The benefit of doing a civil engineering apprenticeship is that can get to earn while you learn with on-the-job training, alongside academic studies.