Employer engagement in the Earth and environmental sciences

Abstract

Abstract This article reports on the main findings of a small-scale scoping exercise into employer engagement in the Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES). The research examined the understandings, practices, future plans and barriers to employer engagement of individuals and departments. There appears to be mixed understandings of the term ‘employer engagement’, with few respondents offering descriptions that include workforce development. Most departments valued their interactions with employers. There was a sense that this was an area of growing importance. However, staff indicated the need for greater support and guidance to help them develop these new relationships. Some differences in employer relations were noted, with Earth science having a more established tradition of employer engagement and environmental science appearing to be in a phase of development and innovation.