Manufacturing is a sector which is affected more than most by globalisation: not only does it rely heavily on export sales, but its raw materials are frequently sourced overseas. Add to that, international takeovers and mergers, the trend towards outsourcing and the logistics of global supply chains and you can see how valuable the ability to speak another language might be in this business. Cultural skills too are highly valued: the ability to understand the subtleties of foreign customers’ needs is crucial. So having a language alongside a technical qualification could be a winning mix!

Useful links

SEMTA (Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies)