BAE Systems is significantly enhancing job opportunities in Northern England.
- The company commits to hiring 1,500 new apprentices and graduates across several sites.
- A remarkable £1 billion investment in training and education is anticipated.
- Key projects include the Global Combat Air Programme and the SSN-AUKUS submarines.
- Diversity and inclusion are central to BAE Systems’ recruitment strategy.
BAE Systems has announced a substantial commitment to the Northern England job market with plans to hire 1,500 new apprentices and graduates at various locations including Barrow, Brough, Samlesbury, Washington, and Warton. This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to investing in regional talent development.
The company plans to surpass £1 billion in spending on education and skills across the UK by the end of the decade, significantly contributing to the local economy. This investment focuses on enhancing the skills of UK apprentices, graduates, and employees, aligning with BAE Systems’ strategy to bolster national economic growth and industrial expertise.
BAE Systems provides apprentices with the opportunity to work on pivotal national security projects like the Global Combat Air Programme and next-generation SSN-AUKUS submarines. These projects are crucial for developing advanced technologies and reinforcing the UK’s defense capabilities.
In 2025, BAE Systems is recruiting over 2,400 new apprentice, undergraduate, and graduate roles, increasing its training cohort to a historic 6,500, which represents approximately 15% of its UK workforce. This growth demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating a robust talent pipeline.
A focused investment of £230 million in skills and education in the upcoming year aims to bring the total spend on skill enhancement beyond £1 billion since 2020. This financial commitment is critical for maintaining the UK’s national security capabilities and economic stability.
The company’s recent expansions include a new multi-million-pound skills academy in Glasgow, complementing established academies in Barrow and Samlesbury. These academies are pivotal in maintaining BAE Systems’ status as a leader in industrial skills development.
BAE Systems collaborates with colleges, universities, and social mobility groups to foster a diverse talent pool. Notably, 30% of new apprentices are female, and a third of graduate starters belong to ethnic minority groups. This commitment to diversity is key for developing a workforce that reflects broader societal demographics.
According to Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems’ CEO, “As the UK’s largest defense company, we rely on the skill and ingenuity of those who deliver our programs, which is why it’s so crucial we continue to invest in our people.” His statement highlights the company’s forward-thinking approach to workforce development.
John Healey, the Secretary of State for Defense, emphasized that this investment in defense not only strengthens national security but also supports economic growth and job creation across the UK, indicating a strong future for the defense sector.
BAE Systems’ investment highlights its role in both enhancing national defense capabilities and fostering economic growth through job creation and skills development.
