Why Attend:

The Defence sector is entering a period of significant transformation.

New technologies, evolving defence priorities, increasing demand for innovation and changing workforce demographics are creating both opportunities and challenges for businesses of all sizes. To ensure the North East is ready to respond, we need a clear understanding of the workforce, skills and talent required to support future growth.

This forum has been designed as an industry-led conversation focused on gathering practical insight from employers and stakeholders across the defence and security ecosystem. The aim is not to predict future job titles or compile a wish list of skills. Instead, we want to understand how work is changing, where organisations are experiencing workforce challenges, and what support is needed to attract, develop and retain talent.

Why Your Voice Matters

The future success of the North East defence and security sector depends on ensuring skills provision, employment pathways and workforce development activity are aligned with real industry demand.

Your input will help us understand:

• The skills, roles and capabilities your organisation requires now and in the future
• The barriers preventing recruitment, workforce growth and upskilling.
• How education, industry and government can work more effectively together.
• What practical interventions would have the greatest impact for employers.
• How NERDSC can coordinate a regional response that supports businesses, strengthens talent pipelines and creates long-term opportunities across the North East.

The evidence gathered during the forum will directly inform the development of a future NERDSC Defence Skills & Employment Action Plan, helping to shape collaborative projects, future investment priorities and regional workforce initiatives.

What to Expect

Participants will take part in structured discussions focused on:

• Future workforce requirements
• Skills gaps and emerging capability needs
• Recruitment and retention challenges
• Workforce development opportunities
• Employer engagement with education and training providers
• Regional collaboration and future priorities

The forum will provide a valuable opportunity to share experiences, contribute insights and help shape practical recommendations that support both business growth and future workforce development across the region.