Defence company BAE Systems has announced a significant recruitment drive, aiming to add more than 2,400 apprentices and graduates to its UK workforce by 2025. The company plans to increase its training roles to 15% of its UK staff, with a record 6,500 young people set to be trained next year.
This initiative is part of BAE Systems' broader investment in education and skills, which is expected to total £1 billion since the beginning of the decade. The investment will support apprentices, graduates, experienced employees, and educational outreach programmes.
As part of the recruitment effort, BAE Systems recently launched its third state-of-the-art skills academy in Glasgow, complementing existing facilities in Barrow, Cumbria, and Samlesbury, Lancashire.
Charles Woodburn, group chief executive, commented, "As the UK’s largest defence company, we rely on the skill and ingenuity of those who deliver our programmes, which is why it’s so crucial we continue to invest in our people. With thousands of roles open for application across the length and breadth of the country and our exciting high technology programmes, there has never been a better time to embark on a new career with us."
Job Opportunities Across the UK
BAE Systems is anticipating the recruitment of nearly 1,300 apprentices in 2025, primarily in the North of England, with additional roles available across the South of England, Scotland, and Wales. The company also plans to recruit over 1,100 graduates and undergraduates.
In the North West, BAE Systems will offer a total of 1,515 roles, including 915 apprentice positions, 161 undergraduate opportunities, and 439 graduate roles.
Government Support for Defence Sector Growth
Defence Secretary John Healey praised BAE Systems' commitment to skills development, stating, "BAE Systems are a leading light in the UK defence industry and play a crucial role in keeping the men and women of our armed forces equipped on the front line. Defence offers exciting careers, and this investment is a vote of confidence in the UK as a leader for cutting-edge employment, creating highly skilled jobs across the UK."
He added, "National security is the foundation for national stability and growth. Our Defence Industrial Strategy will ensure our defence sector is an engine for jobs and growth, strengthening our security and our economy."
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