The space industry is truly global: many projects are multinational in the planning development, launch and operation and new countries are continuously entering the market.
The space market is big. The largest player in the market is the USA: NASA employs 18,000 people directly and US industry supports a further 350,000 throughout the supply chain. This equates to annual revenues of over $60 billion.
The space industry is evolving. December 2013 saw Bolivia become the latest member of the space family as it launched its first communications satellite. India, China and others are increasing their focus on space.
Governments across the globe are investing growing amounts in satellites and other space-based technologies. In addition to facilitating governmental requirements, this investment is designed to boost local high-tech industries to stimulate industrial performance and international competitiveness.
Commercial investment in space technologies – particularly satellites – is growing as the world becomes increasingly technology driven.
The expanding and increasingly global nature of the space industry provides increased opportunity for employees to seek career development via the most interesting and challenging programmes, wherever they are.
This provides both benefits and challenges for organisations looking to recruit. On the plus side, the potential of taking on people with wider and more up-to-the minute experience is a desirable one. On the downside this means a more mobile employee base and increasing difficulties in attracting and retaining the talent needed.
Recruitment and HR policies will evolve to manage this evolving situation, and keeping a close eye on the talent market will form an important element of programme and organisation planning.