Round two for Space South Central programme to bridge UK space industry skills gap

The UK Space Agency (UKSA) funded Securing the Future of Space: Space Software and Data/AI Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme is now open for a second round.

This vital programme is designed to address the critical skills gap in the space sector by empowering mid-career professionals with expertise in software, data, and artificial intelligence (AI). This aligns with the goals of the National Space Strategy and supporting the UK’s growing £16.5 billion space industry.

The course, delivered by experts from the Space South Central partnership of universities of Portsmouth, Southampton and Surrey offers participants the tools to navigate the rapidly advancing fields of AI and data science. It provides lectures, practical exercises, and mentoring sessions to ensure participants acquire both technical skills and strategic acumen.

Dr Becky Canning, Deputy Director (Space) at the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation, said: “Software and AI development is proceeding at such a rate that remaining at the forefront of the sector is challenging. Yet these digital skills are critical to meeting the goals of the National Space Strategy and to driving innovation. This course helps companies and individuals overcome skills deficits at the mid-career level and has been designed to strategically navigate the rapidly changing fields of AI and data-science.”

The 2023 Space Sector Skills Survey revealed a 72% gap in software and data expertise. AI, machine learning, and data analysis are critical areas where the need for skilled professionals continues to grow.

With support from industry experts at Orange Tree Ltd, the course will offer participants comprehensive training in digital space and AI technologies. They will also receive guidance on navigating funding opportunities and understanding the strategic implications of digital technologies. Through a combination of lectures, practical exercises, and mentoring, attendees will gain the skills needed to advance in this ever-evolving digital field.

The programme is designed for professionals who are looking for promotion and to fulfil critical employer gaps within the space industry and individuals from adjacent sectors such as defence, engineering, and maritime who want to direct their talent towards the fast-growing space industry.

Dr Louise Butt, Director of Space South Central, stated: “Our region has a long-standing heritage of space innovation and expertise. However, skills gaps, shortages, and recruitment challenges pose threats to South Central England’s £3 billion space sector. By fostering collaboration between education and industry, we are addressing these gaps to ensure our workforce remains highly skilled.

“Our mission is to keep the region at the forefront of the UK space industry. This involves supporting training opportunities and helping employers attract and retain staff. By promoting collaboration between education providers and the industry, the aim is to develop training that meets business needs and supports talent development.”

Whether you’re a space sector company looking to upskill your employees or an individual from any sector seeking training to take the next exciting step in your career, register your interest by contacting Dan Smith: daniel.smith@port.ac.uk