University of Portsmouth delivers vital skills training to address UK space industry shortage
Rebekah Yore, final-year PhD student in risk and disaster reduction at University College London
The first cohort of participants has successfully completed the Space Data/AI Bridging Course designed to help tackle the critical shortage of software, data, and AI skills within the UK space sector. The course is part of the overarching Securing the Future of Space: Space Software and Data/AI Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme, funded by the UK Space Agency's Training Programmes Fund and delivered by experts from the Space South Central partnership of universities of Portsmouth, Southampton and Surrey, The University of Portsmouth led the four-week intensive programme, combining online learning with in-person training days. Designed for those without prior coding experience, it focused on data analytics and AI for remote sensing. Participants gained hands-on experience in Python programming, software project management, technical documentation, and version control systems, specifically for Earth Observation data applications. In addition to gaining technical skills, participants developed an understanding of the strategic implications of digital technologies for their organisations, as well as how to navigate space-related funding opportunities.
Toby Meredith, drone safety officer and PhD student at the University of Portsmouth
“The course structure was excellent. The combination of online learning and in-person sessions was incredibly effective, allowing for hands-on practice and valuable networking with others —particularly reassuring for those of us with limited coding experience. The teaching quality was exceptional; the course facilitators demonstrated extraordinary knowledge while remaining approachable and supportive.”
“What once seemed like an impenetrable technical domain now feels like an accessible toolkit for solving complex problems. I now understand not just the 'what' of data analysis, but the 'how' and the 'why'.
“What stood out about the course was the expert instruction from the University of Portsmouth team. Their in-depth knowledge and ability to explain complex subjects to beginners like myself was invaluable.”
“This course is about ensuring professionals—whether already in the industry or transitioning into it—are equipped to solve the specific technical challenges facing UK space companies today.
“It's vital that we support the career development of professionals in the space sector and to guide them through a complex and ever-evolving landscape of data from space and about space.”
“This course is crucial for ensuring that our region remains at the forefront of the UK space industry. By fostering collaboration between education providers and industry, we are developing training opportunities that directly address business needs and help organisations attract and retain top talent.”
The bridging course and the wider CPD programme address a significant 'mid-career' skills gap in software and data expertise identified by industry surveys, targeting professionals with three or more years of experience. The CPD course has been delivered to two cohorts: the first involved space sector employees seeking career progression, while the second targeted professionals from other sectors aiming to enter the space industry. Discussions with various organisations revealed a need for a bridging course for beginners with no coding experience who are interested in digital space and might join the CPD later. Whether you’re a space sector company looking to upskill your employees or an individual from any sector seeking training to take the next exciting step in your career, register your interest for future course programmes by contacting Dan Smith: daniel.smith@port.ac.uk
