A PRESTIGIOUS apprenticeship and trainee programme is open with almost 200 Glasgow-based roles up for grabs next year.

BAE Systems is taking on 204 apprentices and trainees in 2025 with 172 of the jobs at the Naval Ships business in Govan and Scotstoun shipyards.

The firm, which is currently building type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy at Govan, is investing around £230million next year in early career roles.

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 A new Applied Shipbuilding Academy was opened earlier this year where apprentices will learn their skills.

(Image: BAE)

Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems, said: “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.”

There are more than 60 programmes available across the full range of jobs needed to sustain a huge business like BAE Systems.

The roles include the traditional shipbuilding trades in steelwork and engineering to the modern-day tech skills in cyber security and software development as well as finance and project management posts.

Francesca Di Mascio, 27, is a first year Electrical Engineering Apprentice at BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business.

She said: “I joined BAE Systems because job security is important to me and I wanted to work in a hands-on environment. The job was everything I’d hoped for plus the extra benefit of being part of the community in the shipyard gives me an extra sense of purpose.

“Doing an apprenticeship is a great opportunity to earn while you learn and this is the first time I’ve really felt valued after joining a business, I’d definitely recommend anyone thinking about applying to go for it.”

(Image: BAE)

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In Glasgow, there will be 119 apprentice roles, 19 undergraduate posts and 34 graduate roles.

The closing date for apprentice applications is 28 February 2025.

There are multiple graduate intakes throughout the year, including January, April, July, August and September.

To find out more and apply visit: baesystems.com/earlycareers

Across the UK BAE Systems in recruiting for more than 2,400 new apprentice, undergraduate and graduate roles in 2025, which will result in a record number of 6,500 in training, around 15% of the firm’s UK workforce.

John Healey, Secretary of State for Defence, said: “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.”