New MedTech quals will tackle science skills gap, vows minister
14 Dec 2025
New higher technical qualifications (HTQs) have been developed in order to boost skills in the fast-growing medical technology sector.
The Government said the aim is to train thousands of technicians and regulatory advisers to handle AI-enabled devices, imaging and diagnostic tools and wearable technology.
Training will be provided variously through further education institutions, the private sector and universities.
Announcing the launch of the HTQs in MedTech, minister for skills Baroness Jacqui Smith said the qualifications would not only close a critical skills gap but would open careers “for thousands”.
Industry body the Association of British HealthTech Industries has warned that there could be 145,000 more medtech workers required within a decade.
The association estimated that 70,000 new jobs will need to be filled by 2035 to meet new demand across the sector, plus 75,000 replacements for those leaving.
Phil Smith, chair of Skills England, which contributed to developing the qualifications, commented that recruitment and training would also bring benefits to the health system.
“MedTech is the future. Filling skills gaps for this fast-growing sector, through these new qualifications, will be a really practical way of supporting the NHS through boosting productivity,” he added.
In addition to Skills England, lifelong learning company, Pearson, West Midlands Combined Authority and regional medtech businesses contributed to the creation of the new HTQs.
Home to Birmingham Health Innovation Campus, Birmingham Knowledge Quarter, Arden Cross and West Midlands Health-Tech Accelerator, the West Midlands defines itself as the largest medical devices cluster in the UK. It boasts more than 14,000 employees and generates a combined turnover of £6 billion
Pic: Anna Shvets
