GEOSPATIAL SKILLS
Addressing the Skills Gaps in the Geospatial Sector in Scotland
Location Data Scotland has been working in partnership with the University of Edinburgh and AGI Scotland over the last two years to develop a roadmap tackling the skills challenges across the sector.
Research carried out in 2023, across the Scottish community, highlighted that:
- 70% had experienced skills-related challenges
- 52% were struggling to recruit the right type of talent
- 81% were unable to retain staff
- 53% felt they wouldn’t meet future staffing needs
Geospatial is the UK’s 5th fastest growing sector and predicts a 10.5% annual growth that will be worth £9 billion by 2027*. The skills challenges need to be addressed and solutions found to ensure the UK meets these growth aspirations.
We propose to develop educational pathways which present a significant opportunity for both current and future professionals and broadens the diversity of talent coming into the sector. Therefore, support is needed from industry to shape the curriculum content by participating in industry workshops and providing opportunities for student projects and visits.
If you would like to get involved in helping to drive the skills agenda and influence future generations to consider geospatial as a career path
Hear from our Partners
Alan Corbett, Head of Geospatial, Scottish Government
Jenni Doonan, Head of Projects, Fife College
Bruce Gittings, AGI Scotland and University of Edinburgh
Don’t forget to check out the Resources section to access information about the skills programme.