Stephen Metcalfe MP has been appointed as the new Government Envoy for the Year of Engineering. 

Formerly Chairman of the Science and Technology Select Committee, Stephen Metcalfe will act as an advisor for the campaign, engaging with industry and government on tackling the engineering skills gap and widening the pool of young people who enter the profession.   

The Year of Engineering campaign will see government join forces with industry to give thousands of young people direct and inspiring experiences of engineering throughout 2018, aiming to tackle the shortfall of 20,000 engineering graduates a year.  

Stephen Metcalfe MP said: "When I was asked to take on this important role I had no hesitation in accepting. Growing the interest in, and awareness of engineering and careers within the sector is vital to inspiring the next generation of engineers and ensuring our future economic success. Engineering has the ability to tackle some of the great challenges the country and the world faces while also providing well paid and rewarding careers. I hope our combined efforts in 2018 will help us engineer a better, brighter future for all". 

Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling has welcomed the appointment, and said: "Engineering is one of the most productive sectors in our economy, but a lack of graduates entering the profession is damaging growth. With major investment being made in infrastructure and new technologies that aim to improve the way we travel, work and live, it’s crucial to the nation’s success that more people join the profession."

See the Engineering Council's statement on the Year of Engineering, or find out how to get involved at www.dft.gov.uk/year-of-engineering-2018/ or from Year of Engineering on Twitter.