ACE Group, the membership organisation for Britain’s engineering and consultancy sector, has welcomed the launch of the government’s Industrial Strategy - which has recognised the UK’s world-renowned capabilities in infrastructure, sustainability and the built environment.

From setting new global standards in net zero construction and Biodiversity Net Gain to delivering complex infrastructure projects across five continents, British consultancy and engineering firms continue to punch well above their weight, exporting intellectual capital and technical excellence that shapes cities, systems and societies across the globe. 

Kate Jennings, CEO of ACE Group, said: “It is hugely welcome that professional services are recognised as a growth sector in the new Industrial Strategy. As a component of that, the UK’s engineering and consultancy sectors are quietly indispensable.  

“Our sector has made huge strides to meet the aims outlined in the strategy, to be the world’s most trusted advisers to global industry.  We provide not just design and delivery, but strategic thinking, governance frameworks and innovation - in short, the tools and trust needed to build future economies. 

“Following last week’s Infrastructure Strategy and today’s £100m investment in engineering skills, alongside 65,000 new courses in engineering and digital, investors now have greater certainty and a clearer framework to drive business growth across the UK. 

“We welcome the strategy’s ambition to harness British excellence. What’s vital now is ensuring continuity, not just in policy, but in procurement, skills investment, and export support. We have the knowledge, the networks and the track record. Let’s now turn that into delivery.” 

Ben Brittain, Director of Public Affairs at ACE Group, added: “The Industrial Strategy represents a long-overdue framework to recognise and grow UK capability, align capital, innovation and skills. It is  a moment to cement Britain’s competitive edge in infrastructure-led growth.

“With a robust well of domestic expertise, the sector is ideally placed to deliver on national ambitions, whether in modernising transport and digital systems or scaling up clean energy technologies, both at home and abroad. 

“We don’t merely design bridges or buildings; we design and unlock the outcomes to create thriving communities and sustainable infrastructure. If this strategy enables more of that, we’re not only contributing to Britain’s growth story, but we’re also influencing how infrastructure is delivered globally and ensuring British expertise and excellence sits at the heart of that.” 

Emma Schloes, Chair of ACE Group’s Emerging Professional Network, said: “Today’s announcement marks a pivotal step in strengthening the UK’s industrial base. The investment in engineering skills, including the investment of £100m sends a clear signal that government recognises the critical role of talent in driving innovation and long-term productivity.

"For emerging professionals, this strategy offers not just opportunity, but confidence in a future built on technical excellence and sustained industrial ambition.”