Campaign: a call to action!

We may be in the midst of one of the worst global recessions of all time but there may be a far greater threat to the chemical sector.

The industry's workforce is aging, students are looking elsewhere and essential knowledge and expertise is at risk of being lost.

It's no secret that the industry is experiencing a severe labour shortage; whether it's staff in the laboratories, engineers out in the field or truck drivers moving from site to site, the industry desperately needs to recruit.

In mature economies such as North America and Europe, the cost base can't compete with emerging markets. This makes it all the more important to attract the most talented young people to the industry to help it innovate and survive.

But where have all the students gone and what is the solution?

Over the coming months, ICIS Chemical Business and its network of journalists aims to stimulate discussion amongst industry and spark interest among students on this global issue.

There are signs of improvement. National trade associations have been raising efforts to increase awareness, targeting youngsters through schools, colleges and career fairs to encourage them to follow a career in science.

Schools and colleges have been striving to make science and engineering more exciting, while chemical companies have also upped their game, increasing investment in internships, apprenticeships and in-house training programs.

But is this enough?

We'll be looking at current strategies, evaluate and analyse the successes and failures, propose alternatives and improvements, and consider the repercussions if nothing is done.

Is the industry doing enough to convince prospective employees that this is a sector full of opportunity with amazing travel prospects, lucrative salaries, superb career progression and job security?

Let us know your thoughts.

(Photo credit: James Sarmiento)