Engineering news
Released during National Apprenticeship Week, a survey for the aerospace and defence giant found that 16-24-year-olds have a strong preference towards their local community when it comes to planning their future career, with the vast majority (86%) saying they want to secure a job close to where they live.
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the survey of 2,000 young people found that more than two-thirds (71%) are optimistic about their future career prospects, with more than half (53%) of those feeling confident that they will secure a job they find interesting, and more than a third (35%) believing there are now more job opportunities available to them in the current job market.
Reflecting on the past two years, nearly two-thirds (63%) of those surveyed now place more importance on their career. Making a positive contribution to society rated highly, with the majority (82%) wanting to work for an organisation which has a clear purpose. Healthcare (55%), education (51%) and science (37%) were seen as the sectors that make the most positive contribution to society.
“It’s encouraging that so many young people are considering apprenticeships,” said Richard Hamer, education and skills director at BAE Systems. “By providing opportunities for young people in regions across the country to gain qualifications while they work, apprenticeships can play a vital role in supporting social mobility and the government’s Levelling Up agenda.
“Our programmes equip young people with the skills and knowledge required to set them up for a successful and rewarding career with the opportunity to do important work, delivering programmes and equipment which will help to protect the UK for decades to come.”
Tej Naidoo, a third year technical apprentice at BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems business, said: “When I left school I knew I wanted to stay close to home and hit the ground running in my career, so an apprenticeship with the company was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
“I enjoy getting hands-on, technical experience, and my apprenticeship gives me this, as well as the opportunity to apply the skills I learn straight away. I would definitely urge others to consider taking an apprenticeship route – there’s no better way to develop your skills and launch your career.”
BAE Systems plans to hire almost 1,700 apprentices and graduates in the UK this year, with the creation of more than 900 apprentice roles and 750 graduate and undergraduate roles.
Want the best engineering stories delivered straight to your inbox? The Professional Engineering newsletter gives you vital updates on the most cutting-edge engineering and exciting new job opportunities. To sign up, click here.
Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.