Adapt or Be Overlooked: The Skills That Will Set You Apart in 2026

The engineering world is evolving faster than ever.

Automation, sustainability, and digital transformation are reshaping what it means to be an engineer, and employers are already adjusting their expectations.

According to the IET’s 2025 Skills Survey, only 61% of engineering employers believe their current workforce is “fit for the future.” That means opportunity, for those willing to adapt.

Here’s how to make sure you’re one of them.

Understand What “Future-Ready” Really Means

The IET reports that the most in-demand skills right now are:

• Innovation thinking: 42% of engineering employers said “innovation thinking” is one of the top skills needed in their organisation over the next five years.
• Digital & automation expertise: 39% of employers identified digital and automation knowledge as a critical area for future investment and recruitment.
• Sustainability specialisms: 35% said sustainability and environmental engineering skills are key to meeting their future business goals.

These figures show which skill sets are most in demand for future-fit engineers, and they’re the latest available, reflecting real employer priorities in late 2025

Tip: Audit your current skill set. Where are your strengths? Where are your gaps? Align your next training step to the sectors you want to move into, for example, manufacturing engineers are now expected to understand lean automation and green production practices.

Build Skills That Employers Can See

Upskilling doesn’t have to mean going back to university. Try:

• Short accredited courses on platforms like EAL, City & Guilds, or Coursera in robotics, automation control, or sustainable design.
• Hands-on learning: ask to shadow maintenance on a new automated line or lead a small improvement project.
• Certifications that stand out: Six Sigma Yellow Belt, AutoCAD Electrical, or IEMA Sustainability Certificate can all elevate your CV quickly.

Tip: Always include key tools or software’s and tech exposures on your CV, employers scan for specific software, equipment, or methodologies before anything else.

 Demonstrate Innovation Don’t Just Claim It

Anyone can write “innovative thinker” on their CV. Fewer can prove it.

• Replace vague soft skills with results:

“Redesigned fixture process, cutting setup time by 18%.”

“Introduced predictive maintenance using sensors, reducing unplanned downtime by 25%.”

• Quantify improvements, even small ones. Measurable outcomes are what make you memorable to hiring managers.

Tip: Before an interview, prepare one strong example that shows initiative and continuous improvement; it’s a consistent differentiator in successful hires.

Stay Flexible Because Career Paths Are Changing

In 2025, employers are blending contract and permanent hiring more than ever.

Contract projects often serve as a “test bed” for innovation or sustainability initiatives. For many engineers, these are stepping stones into permanent roles.

Tip: If you’re open to both, tell your recruiter. Flexibility means more exposure, faster progression, and access to projects that expand your technical scope.

Partner With Recruiters Who See Where the Market Is Heading

At Omega, we’re already supporting engineering clients investing in automation, digital transformation, and the green economy.

We know which skills are being prioritised and which will dominate by 2026.

Whether you’re a design engineer exploring robotics, a manufacturing specialist transitioning to greener processes, or a maintenance professional ready to go digital, the time to move is now.

Reach out today to find out how our team of specialist recruiters can support you in your next career step and get tailored advice on where your experience fits next.

Call us today on 01453 827333 or send us an up-to-date copy of your CV to [email protected]