Unlocking career mobility and porosity for a future-ready workforce

1. Rethinking career pathways: From ladders to lattices

David Way from Policy Connect opened the session by challenging the traditional, linear model of career progression. Instead, he advocated for a more dynamic, flexible approach – likened to a “lattice” – that supports horizontal as well as vertical movement. Key reflections included:

• emphasising the value of non-linear career journeys
• recognising the role of lateral moves in building diverse skills and perspectives
• highlighting the importance of systems that accommodate career transitions at different life stages

2. Supporting flexible training and education models

Kerris Cooper of IfATE shared how technical education systems must evolve to support movement between sectors. Key approaches included:

• developing modular, stackable learning pathways that allow learners to build transferable skills
• recognising prior learning and experience to reduce duplication in training
• ensuring progression routes to visible, accessible, and adaptable to individual goals

3. Engaging employers in careers education

Liz Williams from the Careers & Enterprise Company discussed the need for earlier and more engaging career guidance, particularly for young people. Highlights included:

• the importance of real-world employer engagement in schools and colleges
• broadening the understanding of innovation careers beyond traditional roles
• creating visibility for diverse pathways into technical and innovation-focused jobs

4. Addressing barriers to career transitions

Speakers also explored the systematic and personal challenges that can limit workforce mobility. These included:

• financial and confidence-related barriers for individuals looking to retrain or re-enter the workforce
• limited awareness of existing pathways into innovation-related roles
• a lack of visibility around support schemes or returner programmes

5. Celebrating non-linear journeys

Innovate UK award holders provide real-life examples of successful career pivots – from academia to entrepreneurship, and from industry to innovation funding. Key themes included:

• the role of resilience, adaptability, and mentoring in career progression
• the benefits of broad, cross-sector experience in driving innovation
• the need for systems that reward curiosity and lifelong learning

Next steps: Turning insights into action

Throughout the webinar, several key priorities were identified for enabling greater career mobility and porosity.

• Expand access to flexible, modular education and training modules to support reskilling and lateral movement.
• Encourage employers to value diverse career journeys in their recruitment and development practices.
• Strengthen visibility and support for returners and mid-careers changers, including financial assistance and confidence-building initiatives.
• Increase employer involvement in early careers education to broaden awareness of innovation pathways.
• Champion policies and programmes that actively support non-linear career development across sectors.

Conclusion

This webinar reinforced that unlocking career mobility and porosity is essential for building an inclusive, agile, and future-ready workforce. By supporting individuals at all stages of their careers to move, grow, and adapt, the UK can ensure its innovation economy continues to thrive.

Webinar recording

Watch the full Mobility & Porosity webinar recording.