Singapore Aviation Sector to Transform with New Job Functions and Workforce Development Initiatives

Strategic Insights -

The Singapore aviation sector, a key enabler of the country's economy, is poised to undergo significant transformation with advancements in technology expected to redefine traditional roles and create new job functions. According to a report by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Workforce Singapore, up to 30% of jobs in the sector will be redesigned and transformed over the next five years, with a workforce that is reskilled and upskilled. The tripartite partners - the government, industry, and unions - have committed to supporting the sector's workforce development in three main areas: deepening industry-education partnerships, accelerating ecosystem-level investments in technology and R&D, and providing stronger and more targeted support to companies to transform existing jobs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Singapore aviation sector provides over 60,000 jobs, with a projected 30% of jobs being redesigned and transformed over the next five years.
  • The sector will invest in training to equip and upskill workers with new skills and competencies needed to succeed in a more connected, sustainable, and technology-driven aviation ecosystem.
  • The tripartite partners will support the sector's workforce development in three main areas: deepening industry-education partnerships, accelerating ecosystem-level investments in technology and R&D, and providing stronger and more targeted support to companies.
  • The OneAviation community is dynamic and evolving, with a focus on improvements and development.
  • Industry and educational institutions will collaborate to identify training needs, develop curriculums, and provide structured internship programs and in-house training.
  • CAAS will lead the transformation effort by initiating the development of a multi-year technology roadmap.
  • An MOU will be signed between CAAS and 9 Institutes of Higher Learning to develop capabilities and programs to equip Singaporeans to seize future career opportunities in aviation.
  • WSG will launch an aviation job redesign playbook to support companies in identifying essential skills for emerging roles and implementing job redesign opportunities effectively.

Statistics:

  • Over 60,000 jobs are provided by the Singapore aviation sector.
  • Up to 30% of jobs in the sector will be redesigned and transformed over the next five years.
  • $1 billion will be committed over the next five years to catalyze action and partnership in four areas: Connectivity, Infrastructure, Technology, and Manpower.
  • $200 million of the $1 billion will be ringfenced for a OneAviation Manpower Fund to support unions, aviation companies, and education providers to better attract, develop, and retain OneAviation workers.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Transport, Government of Singapore
  • Singapore Civil Aviation Authority
  • Workforce Singapore