Aerospace leaders believe the sector lacks the technical know-how needed to deliver aviation’s low-carbon ambitions according to research conducted by Expleo.
Engineering services and consultancy provider Expleo’s Business Transformation Index surveyed 1,395 business and IT leaders – including 183 from the aerospace and manufacturing industries – from large organizations in the UK France, Germany, Ireland, India and the US.
When asked, 71% of aerospace leaders said that their organization lacks the skills needed to capitalize on emerging technologies for a more sustainable and digitalized future.
Talent shortages in technical disciplines are impacting business transformation plans for 77% of aerospace respondents, while nearly half (46%) make planning for net zero a priority.
According to the data, hyperautomation is increasingly being seen as a way to boost productivity and deal with talent shortages. Nearly half (45%) of aero organisations identified hyperautomation as a major focus area, up from 40% in 2022.
Jeff Hoyle, Global EVP of Aero, Space and Defence and Managing Director of Expleo, UK, said: “The aerospace industry is facing several significant challenges, the main one being the urgent need to address the technology skills gaps. This is crucial as difficulties addressing the issue threaten to undercut transformation efforts and increase pressure on teams that may already be feeling stretched.
“There is a deficit of tech talent across most economies, so the aerospace sector will need to look at new areas and opportunities. This could include reskilling talent from other industries, as well as considering technology such as hyperautomation to free up time for employees and boost productivity.
“That said, our research found that aerospace leaders are less likely to be aware of productivity-increasing opportunities stemming from hyperautomation than other industries – meaning education will be crucial to developing an appreciation of how this technology can support their organisation.”
More than half of aerospace industry leaders (54%) said they are considering the increased use of temporary or contract labor to plug the gap. More than a third (37%) said they plan to establish their own training ‘academy’ to ensure that they have the talent they need to support their transformation efforts.
“Business Transformation Index 2023” can be downloaded from the Expleo website here.