Engineering jobs increase despite tough economic climate

Despite a tough economic climate, jobs in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industries appear to be growing - and at a rate greater than other industries, according to a new report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

The report, ‘Perspectives on education and training: Australians with qualifications in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), 2010-11’, showed that STEM jobs grew by 14% between 2006 and 2011. Other jobs grew by only 9% in the same period.

“Engineering graduates are highly employable and these statistics reflect they have an edge when searching for work,” said the CEO of Engineers Australia, Stephen Durkin.

“STEM is an area of growth in the job market - growing 1.5 times more than other jobs according to the ABS report.

“Engineers are essential to the future growth of the Australian economy. I hope this sector continues to grow and Australia sustains its strong engineering profession to support our ambitious nation-building efforts.”