Late in 2024, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released a report on the future of engineering as a career. The data included in the BLS’ Occupational Outlook Handbook for Engineering indicates that demand for engineers will grow by at least 13% through 2031. So, why is engineering suddenly one of the hottest career fields around?
The answer lies in two competing yet related trends seen across industries. One is a continued emphasis on sustainability, as companies of all sizes prioritize environmental consciousness in a bid to be good corporate citizens and better attract the emerging Gen Z workforce. The other is the need for innovation across all industries, as emerging technologies like generative AI speed up the pace of market transformation.
That’s not to say that engineers will have it made over the next few years. While they are in high demand, they face a number of challenges in balancing cost efficiency with sustainable practices. As always, recruiters must also deal with significant challenges, but there’s also a rare opportunity to help shape the future. Here’s a look at the 2025 trends for engineering and recruiting.
Opportunities for Engineers in 2025
Much of the demand for engineers stems from a need to advance renewable energy technologies. The marketplace and governments seem ready to embrace alternative energy, including solar, wind, and hydrogen. From improving solar panel efficiency to optimizing wind turbine structures, engineers have an opportunity to lead the transition to clean energy.
However, sustainability doesn’t just mean clean energy. Engineers are also called upon to design eco-friendly infrastructure, such as energy-efficient buildings, sustainable transportation systems, and clearer waste management solutions. Smart cities may still be a concept, but many believe integrating IoT and AI into urban planning can make them a reality, yet another opportunity for engineers.
To make the future of clean energy a reality, engineers must push forward the development of sustainable materials. Biodegradable plastics and durable composites will be critical in a future world where sustainability is the norm. Today’s engineers can introduce these new materials into sectors like packaging and construction to pave the way for sustainability.
Challenges Engineers Will Face
Perhaps the biggest challenge engineers will face in their efforts to promote sustainable materials and related manufacturing processes is ongoing raw material shortages and post-pandemic supply chain disruptions. To overcome material shortages, they will have to look toward innovative solutions found in new recycling technologies or practice a new form of resource optimization.
However, the pursuit of sustainability often comes with increased costs. Engineers will have to find ways to balance the expense of environmental considerations with the economic realities businesses face today. Each new solution must be cost-effective, optimizing energy consumption while minimizing environmental impact. Evolving regulations and environmental standards will complicate matters here, but engineers who stay updated on the changes can successfully navigate stricter requirements.
Finally, the rapid adoption of AI and other new technologies means engineers must continuously upskill and reskill to stay relevant. Embracing the latest trends in gen AI, data analytics, and other digital tools that have traditionally been outside the purview of engineers is now a requirement.
Implications for Recruiting and Staffing
As recruiting and staffing teams navigate these 2025 trends for engineering, they’ll find they have to shift focus toward talent with niche skills. Instead of engineering generalists, recruiters will be looking for renewable energy engineers or those with experience in AI and machine learning. Sustainable design engineers with knowledge of eco-friendly materials and economic principles will be valuable in this talent marketplace.
It’s important not to overlook upskilling and reskilling during industry shifts like this. Identifying skills gaps and providing training programs to overcome them can create a culture of continuous learning to offset recruiting difficulties. New or pre-existing talent pipelines can also provide engineering candidates who haven’t yet hit the talent marketplace.
Leveraging staffing agencies for interdisciplinary talent can also help. With the right partner, you might find engineers with cross-foundational knowledge, such as civil engineering and AI. IoT or robotics specialists can also help with difficult-to-fill roles, and the right staffing partner can assist in locating this type of talent.
What to Do if You’re in an Engineering Industry
For companies in engineering industries facing the increased demand for talent, here are three things you can do now to prepare for 2025:
- Partner with experienced recruiters to identify the top talent aligned with sustainable innovation goals.
- Invest in training programs for emerging technologies and changing regulations to encourage upskilling and reskilling at your organization.
- Focus on employer branding to attract engineers passionate about sustainability and innovation. The top talent will have multiple options, and this is an opportunity to position your company as the right choice.
The need for a new breed of innovative engineers will likely remain one of the top 2025 trends throughout the entire year. Engineering is at the forefront of solving today’s critical challenges and shaping a sustainable future. Recruiting can also play a part in shaping the future. To work with an experienced recruiter to build a workforce capable of driving sustainable innovation in 2025 and beyond, contact MRINetwork today.