Insights

Need extra Engineering project capacity? Learn how to define the work package, skills and timing before seeking contract support.

AI, autonomous systems, robotics, uncrewed platforms and increasingly software-led capabilities are moving quickly from development into real-world defence applications. That is having a direct impact on the skills defence organisations need. The traditional engineering disciplines haven't gone away. Systems, electronics, software, integration and test remain as important as ever. What is changing is the combination of skills employers are looking for.

The UK Aerospace sector needs skilled people, but many potential candidates may never think to look for a role in it. In August 2026, trade body ADS reported that 66% of Aerospace employers in its research were experiencing persistent workforce and skills shortages. Polling for its careers campaign found that 59% of the public had not previously received information about Aerospace careers.

Businesses are dealing with increased taxes and employment costs, including business rates and National Insurance contributions, investment levels are down, and inflation remains high. For organisations hiring across sectors such as Defence Technology, Engineering, Aviation, and Business Support, it’s proving to be a testing time.

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has delivered her second Budget which, she claims, will take ‘fair and necessary’ choices to deliver on this government’s promise of change. It comes at a challenging moment for the UK economy, with productivity growth downgraded and higher inflation forecast.

We caught up with Luke, our newest addition to the CBSbutler team, to learn more about his background, sector insights, and plans to grow our Industrial Automation and Process Control presence across the US.