As defence faces an era of rapid technological change and evolving global threats, the sector’s strategic advantage increasingly depends on its ability to attract, develop, and retain a future-ready workforce. This session explores the current talent and skills challenges facing the UK defence sector. With input from MOD leaders, skills and talent champions, discussions will address how defence organisations can respond to recruitment and retention pressures, modernise training pathways, and build stronger talent pipelines through partnerships with education and industry. Whether you are an employer shaping workforce strategy, a careers guidance lead or a student considering a career in defence, this session offers a 360 on the sector skills requirements today.