Switzerland celebrates engineering

Light blue solidarity: Switzerland celebrates engineering
Engineers are the key players in a sustainable and innovative Switzerland
Dear readers,
In this newsletter, we would like to focus on an important topic: The role of engineering in Switzerland.
Engineers are the backbone of companies in many industries; they are innovators and drive technological development, for example. A strong engineering sector also plays an important role in achieving the United Nations' sustainability goals. Nevertheless, there is currently a shortage of qualified engineers in Switzerland.
In this newsletter, we would like to take a closer look at the reasons for the shortage of engineers in Switzerland, the importance of engineering for the realisation of sustainability goals and Switzerland's efforts to train and recruit engineers.
Why have there been too few engineers in Switzerland for years?
Switzerland is known for its technological innovation and highly developed industry. Nevertheless, there has been a shortage of engineers in the country for years.
A new study shows that the general shortage of skilled workers in Switzerland is increasing every year, currently by 68 per cent within one year. The skills shortage index from Adecco and the University of Zurich has reached a record high of 155 points, which is above the levels of the crisis years and even above the pre-pandemic level. Healthcare professions, IT specialists and engineers are particularly hard hit.
This shortage can be attributed to various factors. One important influence is the low emphasis on scientific and mathematical subjects at school, which leads to a general lack of interest in technical degree programmes among the population.
In a survey, many respondents also stated that the less attractive pay compared to other professions was also a decisive factor. The median salary for career starters across all sectors is CHF 85,000 per year - according to the Swiss Engineering STV Salary Study 2023 - but the wide salary range leads to large fluctuations in some cases. This study also shows that these salaries are not enough to inspire young people to pursue a career in engineering. Furthermore, there is a lack of role models who would increase interest in engineering.
However, in order to achieve the United Nations' sustainability goals, a sufficient number of engineers is crucial.
The role of engineering in realising the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Engineers play a key role in tackling climate change. The professional association Swiss Engineering STV and its members are also aware of this role. The STV actively recognises climate change as a reality and, together with its members, relies on modern engineering skills to combat climate change.
The expertise of engineers is central to the implementation of measures to combat the effects of climate change. This is especially true when it comes to technological innovations to reduce greenhouse gases. In order to further develop existing technologies or create new solutions, a strong engineering sector and cooperation with science and research are essential.
Engineers are responsible for planning, developing and implementing sustainable solutions in the areas of renewable energy, clean water, environmentally friendly infrastructure, efficient transport systems and much more. As experts who deal with technology, nature and society on a daily basis, they develop well-founded solutions that interact with each other.
Without sufficiently qualified engineers, it will be difficult to achieve these goals. After all, engineering is the driving force behind the innovations that make a sustainable future possible.
What is Switzerland doing to train more engineers and fill vacancies?
The urgency of the engineering shortage in Switzerland has long been recognised by some politicians and many are now talking about it, but unfortunately far too few measures are still being taken to train more engineers.
This includes promoting technical degree programmes, creating incentives for young people to study engineering and simplifying the immigration process for foreign engineers. Competitions, for example, are intended to awaken interest in engineering among the very young. In addition, students and employees should be made more aware of the value of qualifications.
Events are also an important tool for publicising the work and influence of engineering. For example, through Engineers' Day, which has also been celebrated in Switzerland since 2018. The initiative aims to ensure that all engineers are proud of their work and position themselves as role models in the public eye, and not just on this day.
Outlook for Engineers' Day 2024
Every year on 4 March, the world focuses global attention on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the associated contributions of engineers. This annual "World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development" was officially recognised by the UNESCO General Assembly on 18 November 2019 at the initiative of the World Federation of Engineering Organisations (WFEO). In 2023, the focus of 4 March was on "Engineering innovation for a more resilient world".
Engineers' Day is an opportunity to recognise the important work of engineers and celebrate the industry. In Switzerland, too, this day becomes an important event in the calendar every year.
The vision is to establish 4 March as "Engineers' Day" and "World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development" among the Swiss population. This day is intended to strengthen the reputation of the engineering professions, promote young talent and stimulate a broad discussion about sustainable development in the world and in society. On this day, projects and events on engineering-related topics will take place at universities, companies, schools and other locations throughout Switzerland.
The theme of the World Engineering Day 2024 is "Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable World". To accompany the numerous events taking place around the world, a hackathon will be organised to encourage engineering students in particular to work in teams on a global real-world problem.
It will be an opportunity to recognise the achievements of engineers and inspire future generations about the exciting career opportunities in engineering.
Switzerland wears light blue on 04 March
Engineering is crucial to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Switzerland is aware of this challenge and is working to train more engineers and place them on the labour market. On 4 March, this importance will not only be made clear through the events of Engineers' Day, but also visually visible. On this day, all engineers are encouraged to wear something light blue to make themselves and the engineering profession visible.
So look out for people in light blue clothing at the beginning of March.
We look forward to a sustainable and innovative future! https://e-selection.ch/
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