Ann Watson, the body's CEO, said: "We consulted the sector and asked what it needed to get the job done at this crucial moment in our history. Skills Vision is a blueprint for change – to galvanize the Government – to do the right thing."
According to SEMTA, examples of the skills issues employers include the fact that almost two in five firms requiring STEM skilled employees report difficulties in recruiting them.
Included in the document, which is the result of consultations with advanced manufacturing and engineering companies, is a call for a number of policies.
SEMTA wants plans that take a long term view on apprenticeships, skills and science funding, with the Government ensuring that apprenticeships are of the right quality. It also wants to see employers encouraged to engage with schools, as well as better provision for preparing students to work. Like other organisations, SEMTA also wants to see better opportunities for women, minorities and the disabled.
"Industry has spoken; its voice must be heard," Watson concluded.
