Eurozone Satellite Careers: How Inmarsat’s Investment Addresses Job Shortages

The Eurozone's space sector is on the brink of transformation, driven by ambitious technological ventures and the critical need to address job shortages. Inmarsat's forthcoming launch of the I-6 F2 satellite aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket exemplifies this dual pursuit of innovation and workforce development. In this article, we will explore how aerospace recruitment professionals are balancing the competing demands of technological advancement with the demands of finding talent during a global talent shortage.

Bridging the Talent Gap

The Eurozone space industry, according to EUSPA¹ is valued at €5,5 Billion Euros, is at a pivotal juncture. Despite the industry's rapid growth, a talent shortfall looms large. According to a report by KPMG², the space sector’s employment growth has outpaced the availability of skilled professionals, with a notable deficit in engineering and technical roles. Inmarsat’s launch is more than a mere addition to the wider ecosystem; it's a clarion call for the industry to address its workforce challenges head-on.

Inmarsat's Investment in Future Talent

Inmarsat's I-6 satellites³, described as the most sophisticated commercial communications small-scale satellite system ever devised, symbolise a significant upgrade in global communications infrastructure - with a notable European dynamic that moves away from traditional US-centric technologies. However, beyond their technological marvel, these satellites represent Inmarsat’s commitment to fostering a skilled European-based workforce. As Eurostat data indicates, the space sector's job market demands highly specialised skills, with a reported 77% of positions requiring advanced degrees. Inmarsat's investment extends beyond hardware, contributing to educational and training programs aimed at equipping the next generation of space professionals.

The Economic and Social Ripple Effects

The implications of Inmarsat’s investment are far-reaching. The European Space Agency (ESA)⁴ highlights that every job in the space sector indirectly creates three additional positions in the broader economy. The launch of the I-6 satellites not only propels Inmarsat’s communications capabilities but also stimulates job creation across the Eurozone in a myriad of supply change frontiers. This cascading effect underscores the satellite launch's role in driving economic growth and innovation. The impact of Inmarsat’s wider investment could see upwards of 2,200 new roles created throughout the wider Eurozone area - at each stage of the production cycle and wider supply chain process.

Addressing the Mid-Career Shortage

One of the industry's most pressing issues is the mid-career shortage, where the demand for experienced professionals far exceeds the supply. A study by EY⁵ points to the necessity of continuous learning and professional development in retaining talent and enhancing their capabilities. Inmarsat’s forward-looking approach, emphasising on-the-job training and cross-sector mobility, is a blueprint for the industry-at-large to follow. Developing mid-career routes for transition can help the wider sector in terms of developing new talent pools.

The Future of Eurozone Satellite Careers

As the Eurozone⁶ aims to capture a 10% global market share by 2030 (this rises when Switzerland and the United Kingdom are included to nearly 18% within continental Europe), fulfilling this ambition hinges on resolving the talent gap. The launch of Inmarsat’s I-6 F2 is a step towards this future, not just in technological advancement but in human capital development. The Satellite Applications Catapult asserts the importance of industry-wide collaboration in fostering an ecosystem that attracts, develops, and retains talent.

Conclusion

Inmarsat’s I-6 F2 satellite launch is a beacon of innovation and a testament to the company's commitment to addressing the Eurozone's space sector job shortages. By investing in technology and talent, Inmarsat is not only enhancing its global communications network but also paving the way for sustainable industry growth. In conclusion, Inmarsat's I-6 F2 satellite launch not only marks a significant advancement in global communications technology but also signifies a strategic investment in the Eurozone's space sector workforce, laying the foundation for sustainable growth and innovation in the industry.