Contracting, Confidence, And The AI Effect
say they’d consider working overseas if UK rules make self-employment harder.
But when you look at those between assignments, that figure drops to 30% - a reminder that this is more about sentiment than action (for now). Still, it speaks to a shift in mood. AI is shaking things up, and younger STEM professionals are starting to question long-term stability.
There are reasons to be hopeful but it’s definitely a moment to listen, reflect, and act.
Read on to find out what contractors are telling us about the next 5 years.
Confidence is shifting. Disruption is rising...... and policy could make or break the UK’s talent future.
Our latest survey findings suggest something worth paying attention to: the UK’s ability to stay competitive in a fast-moving, tech-driven world is closely tied to how we support our contingent STEM workforce. When contractors feel valued and empowered, innovation follows. When they don’t, we risk losing the very people who help make progress possible.
Policy could send 8 in 10 STEM contractors packing
If UK rules around self-employment become more restrictive, many contractors say they’d consider looking overseas. In fact, over half (54%) told us they’d explore opportunities abroad, rising to 80% when you include those who might consider it.
This isn’t about scare tactics, it’s about listening. Contractors have always been mobile, especially in fields like energy and aerospace.
But what’s changing now is broader. Highly skilled digital, IT, and engineering professionals, many of whom can work from anywhere, are starting to ask: “If I’m not supported here, why stay?”
These aren’t easy-to-replace skill sets. Supporting and retaining this talent isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential for keeping UK innovation and infrastructure on track.
The impact would be radical, especially in the sectors where these skills are most needed...
Cyber Security
89% would consider leaving
IT & Digital
89% would consider leaving
Energy
84% would consider leaving
Aerospace
83% would consider leaving
Engineering Technology
82% would consider leaving
Cyber Security
89% would consider leaving
IT & Digital
89% would consider leaving
Energy
84% would consider leaving
Aerospace
83% would consider leaving
Engineering Technology
82% would consider leaving
The path forward: stabilise, support, and signal
How to stay competitive?
The UK’s STEM workforce isn’t resistant to change, but it needs clarity, security, and smart leadership.
The choices we make now from tax policy to how we embrace new tech will influence where talent chooses to grow. Let’s give them every reason to choose the UK. Our data suggests a few clear priorities for employers and policymakers alike:
Create future-ready policies that support flexible, sustainable contracting
Invest in reskilling and career pathways especially for junior and freelance talent
Champion STEM careers and show the next generation that there’s a future worth building here
Create future-ready policies that support flexible, sustainable contracting
Invest in reskilling and career pathways especially for junior and freelance talent
Champion STEM careers and show the next generation that there’s a future worth building here
The UK’s technical and engineering sectors are at a crossroads.
Policy changes, rising costs and AI-driven disruption are reshaping how contractors work and how they feel about their future.
But while confidence has taken a knock, the message from STEM professionals is clear: with the right support, fairer tax frameworks and a renewed focus on flexible careers, the UK can retain and even grow its skilled contractor base. Get it wrong, and we risk a brain drain. Get it right, and we unlock a more agile, innovative and resilient workforce ready to power the UK’s next wave of progress.
Want to understand how these trends could impact your workforce or projects? We’re already helping employers and policymakers navigate the shifting contractor landscape and we’d love to help you too. Whether you need insights, advice or talent strategy support, get in touch to start the conversation.
