UK Space Industry to tackle skills shortage and defence roles at Space-Comm Expo

UK Space Industry to tackle skills shortage and defence roles at Space-Comm Expo
by Sophie Jenkins
London, UK (SPX) Feb 26, 2024

Scheduled for 6-7 March 2024, Space-Comm Expo aims to enhance discussions within the UK's commercial and defence space sectors, providing a networking and collaboration platform. Following an industry-wide survey, the event highlights the sector's call for increased government support and strategies to address the skills shortage.

The Space-Comm Expo's annual survey reveals critical insights into the sector's trajectory, with 87% of participants expecting revenue growth up to 50% in the next year. Concerns surfaced around skills shortages, financial support, and supply chain issues, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Nonetheless, the sector remains optimistic about government investment and initiatives to address these challenges.

Trends in Innovation and Defence
The shift towards partially to fully reusable launches stands out, aiming for environmental sustainability and reduced costs. This development is crucial for ongoing experimentation and technological progress in space exploration.

Defence's integration into the space industry is gaining prominence, with two-thirds of respondents involved or moving towards defence roles. Yet, the call for clearer definitions of defence's space role and better collaboration between space and defence sectors is clear, marking a strategic focus area.

As the UK's leading space industry event, Space-Comm Expo 2024 will gather businesses, government, defence, and aerospace experts, showcasing innovations and fostering partnerships. Major entities like Airbus, BAE Systems, and Rolls-Royce will present their latest work, emphasizing the expo's role in highlighting industry advancements.

The conference program, featuring speakers such as Professor Suzie Imber and leaders from NATO and Space Florida, will explore industry growth areas, challenges, and innovations. A special stage for defence and security underscores the expo's dedication to addressing global space industry issues.

Facilitating Industry Collaboration
Organized with Farnborough International, Space-Comm Expo facilitates dialogue and partnerships, offering platforms like the Start-Up Zone and Meet The Buyer for networking among start-ups, SMEs, investors, and regulators. This environment encourages discussions and collaborations that may define the future of the space industry.

Space-Comm Expo 2024 stands as a key event this year for the UK space sector, driving collaboration, innovation, and strategic discussions to overcome current challenges and capitalize on future opportunities.