"Skills for Space" Programme Launches to Boost UK Talent and Address Sector Challenges

The UK-wide "Skills for Space" programme has been launched to provide students with structured internships within the space industry. This initiative aims to address recruitment challenges faced by the sector by offering practical experience across various disciplines and locations.

Addressing Critical Sector Challenges

The space sector is experiencing significant recruitment difficulties. According to the latest Space Skills Survey, 80% of space organizations reported recruitment challenges, an increase from 61% in 2020. Over half of organizations identified skills gaps in their existing workforce, and 61% noted gaps among job applicants. In total, 95% of surveyed organizations reported experiencing skills-related challenges.

The space sector is experiencing significant recruitment difficulties, with 95% of surveyed organizations reporting skills-related challenges.

Programme Details and Focus

"Skills for Space" will offer 50 internships, each running for eight weeks in July and August 2026. The programme is designed for undergraduates and Further Education students, providing hands-on experience with projects that contribute to the UK space economy.

It focuses on closing critical skills gaps in areas such as engineering, software, data science, and professional competencies. The initiative also aims to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within the workforce.

Objectives and Benefits

The UK Space Agency stated that the programme will support the rapid growth of the UK space sector by attracting diverse talent. It will enable young people to gain real-world experience and develop essential industry skills.

The initiative is considered an investment in the future of UK space, aiming to foster an innovative and inclusive workforce.

UKspace Vice Chair Ben Stern noted that the scheme will increase awareness of career opportunities in the sector, break down barriers to entry, and potentially lead to long-term employment for interns.

Application Information

Applications for internship candidates are currently open, with placements scheduled to be announced in May.