Skills taskforce aims to boost diversity in transport sector

Rachel Skinner

The DfT has launched a new taskforce to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce within the transport sector. 

The Transport Employment and Skills Taskforce (TEST), launched on Tuesday during the Government’s National Apprenticeship Week, will aim to ensure that new ideas are owned and led by industry, with DfT support.

TEST, led by president of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Rachel Skinner CBE, plans to create thousands of opportunities within the transport sector for new talent. She will work with a representative group of industry leaders from across the transport sector.

Skinner will press for better diversity in the sector, where women currently make up just 20% of the workforce and ethnic minorities are still underrepresented. 

“I know how challenging, rewarding and fascinating working within the transport sector can be, particularly at the forefront of our net zero transition,” she said.

“It’s well known that a more diverse and inclusive workforce increases creativity, collaboration and productivity, and I’m excited to use my experience to ensure people from underrepresented groups can build brilliant careers in transport.”

Transport minister Andrew Stephenson said: “This taskforce will break down barriers to the leaders of the future who will deliver services that are essential to keep our country and economy moving.”

A consultation is also underway to better understand the future skills needed to boost diversity, plug the skills gap and promote careers across the transport sector.

The DfT hopes the 12-week consultation will attract responses from across the transport sector as well as the wider public.

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