New Qualifications Address Skills Shortage in Medical Technology

Concerns about a looming skills shortage in the medical technology sector have prompted the development of new qualifications aimed at addressing an estimated 145,000 skills gap. In the West Midlands, the introduction of Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) seeks to prepare individuals for a range of roles, from technicians working on AI-enabled health devices to regulatory advisors.

These qualifications will be available through various educational institutions, including colleges, private training providers, and universities. The initiative stems from a collaborative effort involving the West Midlands Combined Authority, Skills England, and the learning company Pearson, alongside input from employers in the field.

Growing Demand for Skilled Professionals

The Association of British HealthTech Industries has projected that an additional 70,000 jobs will be necessary by 2035 to meet the increasing demand within the sector. This figure is compounded by the need for 75,000 replacements for those exiting the workforce. Currently, over 14,000 people are employed in the medical technology sector across the UK, with the West Midlands serving as a hub for innovation. Key developments include the Birmingham Health Innovation Campus and the West Midlands Health-Tech Accelerator.

The HTQs will be piloted with funding from the West Midlands Investment Zone. These qualifications will cover levels 4 and 5, which are positioned between A Levels and T Levels (level 3), and degrees (levels 6 and 7).

Richard Parker, the Mayor of the West Midlands, emphasized the importance of the MedTech sector in the region’s economy. He stated, “MedTech is one of the fastest growing sectors in the West Midlands economy, which is why it plays a big role in my Growth Plan.” He highlighted the significance of ensuring that local residents obtain the necessary skills to enter this vital industry.

Building Practical Skills for Future Careers

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Pearson Qualifications, noted that these new qualifications aim to equip learners with both the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the MedTech industry. “They go beyond theory, delivering practical, sector-specific knowledge and skills that reflect real job roles, new technologies, and employers’ needs,” she explained.

These qualifications are designed to provide clear pathways for learners, assisting them in planning their futures while developing the knowledge essential to succeed in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors.

Phil Smith, chair of Skills England, echoed the urgency of addressing the skills gap. He remarked, “MedTech is the future. Filling skills gaps for this fast-growing sector, through these new qualifications, will be a really practical way of supporting the NHS through boosting productivity.”

This initiative serves as a notable example of how regional and national governments can collaborate with employers and the education sector to swiftly respond to the evolving skills needs in growth sectors. As the demand for skilled professionals in medical technology increases, the introduction of HTQs could play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce, ensuring that individuals are prepared to meet the challenges of this dynamic industry.