STEM Futures: Advanced Engineering (Transport)
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Northern Ireland has a strong tradition of manufacturing and engineering in the transport sector, particularly in aircraft, ship and bus production.
In recent years the sector has placed a greater emphasis on advanced engineering, specifically innovation, design and development. This is because cheaper international labour costs mean local companies cannot compete in manufacturing.
However, NI companies continue to develop their advanced engineering skills and capabilities.
Advanced Engineering (Transport) Sector Profile
Jobs in the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector
Some examples of jobs in the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector are provided below:
Aerospace design engineer |
Naval architect |
Motion controls engineer |
Who are the employers in the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector?
There are a wide range of businesses working across this sector. They include:
BE Aerospace |
Translink |
Studying in the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector
At School
Many of the subjects studied at school can set you on the right path for a career in the advanced engineering (transport) sector, for example, Mathematics, Science, Technology and Art & Design.
Further and Higher Education
There is a range of engineering and transport related courses available at the colleges and Universities throughout NI and the UK. Some courses focus on electronic and mechanical skills whilst others focus on engineering and design. Some courses are also sector specific such as aerospace studies.
Electromechanical engineering Mechanical engineering |
Motor vehicle electronics |
Welding |
For more information on further and higher education courses visit: Further Education (FE) Colleges, Queens University, Belfast and/or Ulster University.
Future of the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector
The future of the advanced engineering (transport) sector is promising and job prospects are good. The following six areas have been identified by experts as important areas to focus on in the sector for the future:
- Design for passenger safety and security
- Environmentally optimal products
- Use of lighter, stronger and more cost effective materials
- Innovative solutions combining products and services
- Space
- Intelligent transportation
Global issues and trends
- Energy efficiency issues
- Waste reduction
- Increasing concerns about passenger safety and security
- Globalisation
- Increasing costs of fuels
- Exploration of new frontiers
- Demand for skilled workforce
Useful links relating to the Advanced Engineering (Transport) sector
View related STEM Futures teacher resource relating to Advanced Engineering (Transport):
STEM Futures
View more CCEA STEM resources: