Autodesk’s new global study highlights in-demand skills across Design and Make industries

The Design and Make industries — encompassing architecture, engineering and construction, design and manufacturing, and media and entertainment — are heading towards an AI-powered future. Autodesk’s new State of Design and Make Report highlights this transformation and explores what it means for these industries, which employ nearly 300 million people worldwide and will represent $30 trillion in value globally by 2027. The global software company and Global Partner of WorldSkills surveyed 5,400 global business leaders, futurists, and experts for its report, which aims to help global leaders make strategic decisions on how to prioritize and invest for the future.

Survey Highlights

With many companies in these industries surpassing expectations year after year, Autodesk’s data suggests that advanced digital maturity is powering business resilience. Respondents from digitally mature companies are more likely to report above-average or exceptional performance.

Upskilling and continuous learning were also key ingredients for business growth. Autodesk’s report found that while 77% of companies consider upskilling and training important, only 38% have the necessary skills and resources to design internal training programs. Further, 43% of industry professionals say that access to skilled talent is a barrier to growth.

In the face of these challenges, companies across the globe are adopting a multifaceted approach to uplift the next generation and future-proof their businesses.

Many companies are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to bridge this skill gap and drive innovation. According to the report, trust in AI is rising, with more than 3 in 4 professionals (76%) saying they trust AI for their industry. Many companies have embraced AI to enhance productivity, become more efficient, and to achieve vital sustainability goals.

As Design and Make industries continue to invest in AI, technical education is essential for students before they enter the workforce.

“As the world’s leading design and make technology company, we believe we have an obligation to help the next generation of leaders – who will be charged with shaping our world – prepare for rapidly evolving jobs of the future,” said Mary Hope McQuiston, Autodesk’s Vice President of Education Experiences.

She added, “It’s why we provide the same software used by professionals to all students and educators around the world for free, and we partner closely with organizations like WorldSkills who share our commitment to development and learning. Together, we’re empowering the next generation to design and make a better world.”

Autodesk’s report also suggests that incorporating AI has helped companies achieve a more optimistic outlook. Seventy three percent of companies believe they are prepared to handle unforeseen economic or geopolitical changes – up 14 points from 2023.

You can read the full State of Design and Make Report on Autodesk's website. 

Autodesk’s partnership with WorldSkills represents our shared goal of equipping the next generation of skilled professionals with the tools and skills they need to succeed. Together, we aim to prepare the designers and makers of the future for illustrious careers across advanced manufacturing, digital construction, media and entertainment, and more.

At WorldSkills, we provide students with the skills, hands-on experiences and credentials to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce. Through Autodesk’s platinum sponsorship at WorldSkills Lyon – featuring interactive try-a-skill zones, and support of 13 skills across digital construction, additive manufacturing, and mechanical engineering – we hope to empower youth worldwide and shape the Design and Make leaders of tomorrow.