Employer Partners explore workforce trends through the IChemE Employment Survey

IChemE convened its Employer Partners at CATCH in Grimsby in April 2026 to explore the findings of the newly expanded IChemE Employment Survey and discuss what the results mean for the future workforce across the chemical engineering profession.

The session brought together employers from across the process industries to reflect on workforce trends, recruitment challenges, early-career development and the growing shortage of mid-career engineers. Discussions focused on how employers can strengthen pathways into the profession, improve work-readiness, and better attract, retain and support experienced engineers.

A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the need for stronger collaboration across industry, education and professional institutions to address long-term workforce challenges. Employers also highlighted the importance of practical experience, communication skills and clearer progression pathways across the engineering lifecycle.

Read the full write-up from the Employer Partner Networking lunch.