Overview
This report shares parents’ attitudes to, and knowledge of, engineering and technology careers. It looks at how attractive parents might find different careers for their children. Importantly, it also looks at their knowledge of the subjects to study at school and the different vocational and academic pathways into a career.
This report is useful for teachers and careers leaders as it shows where school can help fill in the gaps lacking from parents' advice.
We know from our research that parents are the most consulted sources of careers guidance by young people, so it is vital that they have access to the right information.
This report is based on a sample of parents and guardians of children aged 18 and under in the UK. The survey was conducted by YouGov on our behalf.
What parents know about engineering and technology
Published
October 2025
Who this is for
- Careers leads
- Researchers
- STEM outreach organisations
- Teachers
Key findings
- 87% of parents find STEM careers appealing for their child
- The top 3 reasons engineering is appealing as a career for their child:
- Good earning potential (73%)
- Can work in many different industries (63%)
- Interesting work/profession (61%)
- 55% of parents are not confident in giving advice about engineering careers
- Parents are more familiar with university degrees and apprenticeships rather than other vocational and technical qualifications
Appeal of STEM careers to parents
Reasons engineering is an appealing career for their child
Parental confidence in providing STEM careers advice
Parental knowledge of qualifications
