Is there a shortage of space skills in the UK? Part 1
The United Kingdom has a long history of involvement in space-related projects, dating back to the 1950s when it had its own active space programme. However, in recent years, the country has faced a significant skills gap in the space industry. In order to fulfill its new space ambitions and become a leading space-faring nation once again, the UK needs to address this shortage and ensure it has the necessary expertise.
While the UK did not completely withdraw from the global space industry, it shifted its focus to becoming one of the world’s leading manufacturers of satellites. However, the skills required for the country to become a launch destination are lacking. Some private companies in the UK have made progress with their own launch plans, but they have had to look overseas to secure the necessary skills.
One such company is Skyrora, an Edinburgh-based rocket manufacturer that recently appointed Lee Rosen, a former SpaceX VP and Colonel in the US Air Force, as its Chief Operating Officer. Skyrora has also sought expertise from Ukraine, a country with a strong history of developing rocket engineers and other specialist skills related to space launch. Similarly, Orbital Express Launch Ltd. (Orbex), another rocket manufacturer with a presence in Scotland, has recruited heavily from mainland Europe, particularly Denmark and Germany.
In addition to these private companies, the proposed Saxa Vord launch facility in the Shetland Isles has also turned to skilled individuals with experience in the space industry. Yvette Hopkins, who previously worked with Scottish businesses, was recruited for her expertise gained from her time in US military intelligence.
At this stage, the potential skills shortage may not be immediately apparent as the UK continues to pursue its space ambitions, despite some slowdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, as the country gets closer to launching from its own soil and embarks on a path of growth, the need for more expertise will become more evident. There is a high demand for skilled personnel in the space industry, and it remains to be seen if the UK can fill these roles.
There is hope for the future, as universities in the UK are starting to offer space-specific degrees. As graduates with the required talent emerge, they have the potential to contribute to making the UK a launch destination to be proud of. However, there is a question of whether these graduates can match the expertise of rocket scientists from renowned institutions like Palo Alto.
In the next part of this series, we will delve deeper into the skills issue and explore possible solutions. The UK’s space ambitions rely on addressing this shortage and ensuring that it has the necessary talent and expertise within its borders. Stay tuned for more insights into this pressing matter.
