(Commonwealth) _ In 2024, BAE Systems is poised for an exceptional recruitment campaign, planning to offer nearly 2,700 apprentice and graduate opportunities across the United Kingdom. Over the last five years, the company has remarkably doubled its intake for early careers, a contribution that plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy. This expanded scope aims to present more young individuals with prospects for promising, long-term careers in supporting the nation’s armed forces and security services. BAE Systems’ lauded early career initiatives play a pivotal role in nurturing a talent reservoir crucial for fortifying essential national security capabilities. Beyond simply shaping future leaders in industry proficiency, these programs have proven instrumental in propelling former apprentices and graduates to noteworthy positions of influence within the organization. Charles Woodburn, the Chief Executive Officer of BAE Systems, underscored the company’s unwavering dedication, emphasizing their extensive investments across the United Kingdom. He emphasized their commitment to empowering young talents by equipping them with indispensable skills, thereby enabling them to harness their full potential in the professional landscape.
Woodburn emphasized the significance of quality apprenticeships and graduate programs, emphasizing their role in providing sustainable employment pathways for the youth while bolstering the talent essential for executing critical defense and security programs, including future fighter jets, nuclear-powered submarines, and low earth orbit satellites. Minister for Higher Education, Apprenticeships, and Skills, Robert Halfon, offered praise for this endeavor, emphasizing the transformative influence of apprenticeships in steering career trajectories and fostering economic advancement. He commended BAE Systems for their prominent role as a leading employer in the realm of apprenticeships, recognizing the significant contributions these roles would make to communities across the expanse of the UK. The ambitious recruitment campaign sets sights on enlisting more than 1,400 apprentices, primarily concentrated in Northern England. Additionally, opportunities abound in Southern England, Scotland, and Wales, presenting a broader geographical scope for aspirants. Furthermore, BAE Systems plans to appoint close to 1,300 graduates, marking a substantial escalation of 1,100 positions compared to their recruitment figures from half a decade ago. The offered positions span a broad spectrum, encompassing various fields such as steelwork, electrical engineering, cybersecurity, software development, human resources, and project management. Successful candidates will have the chance to contribute to cutting-edge technology programs, including the Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s next-generation submarines.
Megan Pearson, a previous Software Degree Apprentice within BAE Systems’ Air sector, reflected on her experience, highlighting how the apprenticeship facilitated financial autonomy and offered a varied array of project experiences. Pearson commended the program for its robust support system, aiding in her smooth transition from an academic setting to the professional realm. BAE Systems’ investment in education, skills, and early careers activities has amounted to approximately £180m in the UK, with over 5,500 apprentices and graduates currently in training, representing over 10% of their UK workforce. Furthermore, the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident, with almost a third of apprentice joiners being female in 2023, surpassing the industry average. BAE Systems has set the deadline for apprentice applications as February 28, 2024, while they continuously welcome graduates throughout the year. In tandem with their emphasis on nurturing early careers, BAE Systems is actively seeking experienced professionals across a diverse array of roles. The range of openings offered by BAE Systems extends across a broad spectrum, catering to various skill sets from seasoned steelworkers to proficient data scientists. This diverse array underscores the company’s concerted efforts in seeking talent across a wide-ranging scope of expertise and experience levels in their continuous pursuit of recruits.
