Conclusion 13

The availability of a skilled workforce will be a key factor in determining whether Scotland can realise the opportunities presented by growth in the defence sector. Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing these skills and, by extension, in ensuring the UK’s national security. With expected growth in the sector driven by new international orders and increased demand, there is a growing need for skilled workers, both within defence and in other essential but competing industries, like energy and advanced manufacturing. The establishment of Defence Technical Excellence Colleges in Scotland is a welcome step in addressing these skills shortages. (Conclusion, Paragraph 78)