David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, delves into this pressing challenge and emphasises the importance of attracting a new generation of apprentices.

The security and fire safety industry is at a pivotal crossroads, grappling with a critical skills shortage that threatens its growth and sustainability.   

While demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, traditional pathways are falling short in supplying the necessary talent.

Existing engineers are often stretched thin, balancing a multidisciplinary workload or struggling to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.  

By fostering young talent through structured programs, the sector can secure a resilient and skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of an evolving landscape.  

Why apprenticeships matter  

Apprenticeships provide a structured pathway for young talent to enter the industry, combining academic learning with hands-on experience.

Apprenticeships also serve as a bridge between education and the workplace, allowing individuals to develop the technical, problem-solving and interpersonal skills required to succeed.  

From a business perspective, apprenticeships allow companies to shape future professionals who are well-versed in the latest standards, technologies and practices.

And in a Business 360 approach, can cover complete operations, inclusive of business administration, customer service and management.  

Employers can tailor training to suit their specific needs, ensuring apprentices gain expertise in areas where the industry is currently experiencing shortages.  

 Adapting to technological change  

The security and fire safety industry is undergoing a rapid transformation due to technological advancements and regulatory changes.   

Systems are becoming more integrated and reliant on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Many current engineers find it challenging to specialise in these areas due to the multidisciplinary nature of their roles or a lack of upskilling opportunities.  

This is where apprenticeships and new generational mentalities can offer vital support.

By recruiting and training young individuals with a focus on these smart technologies, the industry can build a workforce equipped to handle the demands of modern security and fire safety systems.   

Promoting careers in security and fire safety  

To attract the next generation of apprentices, the industry must focus on improving its image and highlighting the opportunities it offers. 

Taking advantage of the National Apprenticeship Week as an “annual celebration of apprenticeships and skills and the contributions they make to businesses and communities.”  

Many young people are unaware of the exciting and rewarding careers available in security and fire safety with the use of such smart security technology.

Promoting awareness in schools and colleges by partnering with educational institutions to showcase the industry’s opportunities can be highly effective.   

Showcasing career progression is crucial. Demonstrating clear pathways for career advancement can attract ambitious individuals.

By sharing stories of apprentices who have progressed to leadership roles or become experts in specialised areas, the industry can illustrate the long-term value of joining. 

One of the most significant advantages of apprenticeships is the robust support structure available.

The availability to receive mentorship from experienced professionals who guide them through the technical and practical aspects of their roles.

This hands-on learning approach ensures apprentices gain real-world experience, making them more confident and capable in their jobs.  

Training providers, such as Skills for Security and our partners, play a crucial role in this process by offering high-quality education, access to the latest equipment, and tailored programs that align with industry needs.   

Apprentices benefit from peer support, networking opportunities, and additional resources to help them succeed academically and professionally.

Regular reviews and assessments ensure that apprentices stay on track and receive continuous feedback to improve.  

Practical experience is another key element.

By working on live projects, apprentices get the opportunity to apply their skills in real-life scenarios.  

The future of apprenticeships in security and fire safety  

Investing in apprenticeships is not just about filling immediate vacancies; it is about preparing for the future.

As technology evolves, the security and fire safety industry will face new challenges and opportunities.

A well-trained workforce will be essential to navigate these changes and drive innovation.  

In 2024, Skills for Security broke new boundaries, having grown over 1000% in as little as five years, delivering apprenticeship training to over 1,200 fire and security engineers.

Over the past year, more than 250 apprentices qualified and are now out there in the UK, working as qualified fire and security engineers.   

Unlike other industries, being able to understand and apply the technical aspects of fire and security installation, whether traditional or encompassing the latest smart solutions (or often a mixture of both), quickly and efficiently, is vital to success.  

To overcome the skills shortage, it’s not just about looking within, but also thinking differently, understanding the bigger picture, and starting to embrace the opportunities of a new-generational collaboration.

Here lies the potential for a fresher industry-wide working environment, with the necessary ability to achieve the requirements of today’s increasingly discerning customers.  

By attracting and nurturing a new generation of apprentices, the sector can build a resilient and forward-looking workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing landscape.   

The industry can position itself as an attractive career choice for young talent through targeted outreach, industry collaboration, and a commitment to quality training.  

This article was originally published in the February 2025 Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.