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By Scott Hamilton

Dec. 13, 2024, © Leeham News: It’s been two years since the generally accepted end of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the aerospace industry hasn’t fully recovered. Nor will it do so for some time to come.

Predictions suggest another year or two will be required to restore pre-pandemic employment levels within the supply chain. This isn’t even certain. What is certain is that the impact of inexperienced new hires in the meticulous aerospace requirements will linger on for years to come.

Michael Haidinger, President of Boeing European and Middle Eastern regions. Credit: Boeing.

Michael Haidinger, president of Boeing’s European and Middle Eastern regions, and Juergen Westermeier, chief procurement officer for Airbus, agree challenges remain in the near future.

“There is always a shortage of skilled aerospace talent intensified by the pandemic,” Haidinger said this month at the annual Aviation Forum (2024) in Munich, Germany. “As all the professionals retired, fewer new employees entered the field. Our industry needs more people who not only bring expertise but also embrace the mission of advancing aerospace.”

Haidinger added, “The deficit of skilled engineers, technicians, and other aerospace workers has made ramping up production more challenging. Attracting and retaining talent has become a top priority for us. [We are] with many companies investing in workforce development, partnerships with universities, training programs, and apprenticeship programs."