Record-Breaking Apprentice Intake Set as UK Programmes Ramp Up
December 30, 2019 | BAE SystemsEstimated reading time: 2 minutes

The new recruits will join one of more than 25 apprenticeship programmes across our Air, Maritime, Land and Cyber divisions, benefitting from tailored schemes that combine recognised qualifications with on-the-job training.
The majority of the new apprentices will join either the Air or Maritime sectors where they will work on some of the most exciting and nationally important programmes in the UK. This includes developing future combat air technologies for the Royal Air Force and working on the Dreadnought programme—a new generation of submarine for the Royal Navy that will replace the current Vanguard class.
“It is absolutely brilliant that BAE Systems offers such a huge range of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities. These apprenticeships will be a great way to pursue exciting and rewarding careers in aviation, maritime and cyber security and will offer the chance to work on some of the UK’s most innovative and vital national programmes.”
Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Education Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems, said: “Our apprentices are the lifeblood of our business. I’m incredibly proud of the significant contribution they make to the design and delivery of our most complex products, equipment and services, helping to ensure we remain at the forefront of technology and innovation and safeguard our national security for decades to come.
“As technology and our workplace evolves, it’s critical that we continue to invest in training the next generation of engineers and leaders. By working alongside industry peers, government and the education sector, we can ensure we are ready to respond to complex challenges of the future.”
Khadijah Ismail, an Engineering Degree Apprentice in our Air sector, said: “There are many benefits to undertaking an apprenticeship, from gaining years of credible, on-the-job engineering experience, to some that are more personal. For example, helping me to more confidently offer my views in the workplace.
“Most significantly, my apprenticeship has allowed me to work alongside and learn from senior engineers and leaders from across our business. The opportunity I have to interact with different people and the exposure I have to a wide range of experiences is undoubtedly helping my development and shaping my future career prospects.”
We invested more than £100m in education, skills and early careers activities in the UK in 2018 and have around 2,000 apprentices in training across our UK businesses at any given time, with around 95% securing permanent roles.
We currently employ more than 34,000 people in the UK and are one of the country’s largest employers of engineers, with around 66% of staff employed in engineering or engineering-related roles.
The apprenticeship recruitment window is open now and will run until 28 February 2020.
Testimonial
"Advertising in PCB007 Magazine has been a great way to showcase our bare board testers to the right audience. The I-Connect007 team makes the process smooth and professional. We’re proud to be featured in such a trusted publication."
Klaus Koziol - atgSuggested Items
Intel Announces Key Leadership Appointments to Accelerate Innovation and Strengthen Execution
09/09/2025 | Intel CorporationIntel Corporation today announced a series of senior leadership appointments that support the company’s strategy to strengthen its core product business, build a trusted foundry, and foster a culture of engineering across the business.
Cadence to Acquire Hexagon’s Design & Engineering Business
09/08/2025 | Cadence Design SystemsCadence announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Design & Engineering (D&E) business of Hexagon AB, which includes its MSC Software business—a pioneer in engineering simulation and analysis solutions.
Marcy’s Musings: Continuing to Invent the Future With SEL
08/19/2025 | Marcy LaRont -- Column: Marcy's MusingsTwo years ago, PCB007 Magazine devoted an issue to Schweitzer Engineering Labs (SEL), a new captive greenfield PCB facility in Moscow, Idaho. We highlighted some of the most cutting-edge achievements in facility layout, design, and equipment in the PCB fabrication industry. SEL was a shining example of what was possible, providing insight and inspiration to PCB fabricators looking toward growth and expansion.
Advint and SanRex Expand High-Performance DC Rectifier Access for North American PCB Fabricators
08/12/2025 | Advint IncorporatedAdvint Incorporated has entered a strategic partnership with SanRex Corporation, enhancing access to industrial-grade DC rectifiers for the US printed circuit board industry. With a legacy of power innovation and performance across the globe, SanRex rectifiers are available through Advint’s proficient distribution network.
Review: PCEA Orange County Summer Meeting
08/06/2025 | Dan Feinberg, Technology Editor, I-Connect007The Printed Circuit Engineering Association (PCEA) represents a community of engineers, designers, and industry influencers dedicated to the advancement of PCB technology, design, and manufacturing, and the growth and knowledge of its membership. PCEA regularly hosts events to share the latest developments, best practices, and visions for the future of electronic design and manufacturing. The Orange County chapter seems to be one of the largest and most active ones and I was invited to attend the latest chapter event on July 24 in Costa Mesa, California.