The COVID-19 coronavirus has caused the shut-in of many afflicted patients and the shut-down of many businesses as a result, but not at BAE Systems. In spite of the negative economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, BAE plans to recruit 800 apprentices for its many United Kingdom locations to work alongside knowledgeable, experienced employees and military partners in the company’s various (Air, Maritime, and Electronics) divisions. The apprentices will be drawn from lists of thousands of candidates, with their information collected earlier this year despite COVID-19 using such techniques as virtual interviews to minimize health risks during the recruitment process.
BAE’s chief executive officer (CEO), Charles Woodburn, acknowledged the importance of adding fresh faces to the company even during the difficult times brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic: “Getting people back to work and creating new jobs, especially for younger people, is a national priority and we’re pleased to play our part in supporting the UK’s economic recovery. The contribution apprentices make to our business is vital in maintaining our ability to continue to deliver cutting-edge technologies which protect national security. We’ve worked hard to adapt our application and training processes to allow education to continue, while protecting the health and well-being of our employees and new recruits.”
Most apprentices for this current hiring campaign are expected to join the company between September 2020 and the beginning of 2021, with job openings available in more than 25 training programs within the company’s Air, Maritime, and Electronic Systems divisions. The apprentices train in many different disciplines, including engineering, manufacturing, business administration, project management, and information technology (IT). The company reports that about 95% of its apprentices complete their training with many of those staying on board for long careers at BAE Systems (see the figure).
The UK’s Secretary of State for Education, the Right Honorable Gavin Williamson, Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE), observed: “It is brilliant to see BAE Systems’ continued support for apprenticeships, recognizing the hard work, skills, and value that apprentices bring to a world-leading British company. BAE Systems’ recruitment of 800 apprentices is yet more evidence that apprenticeships are an excellent choice for young people and shows that they are an excellent route into a wide range of high-quality and exciting careers. I am certain that apprenticeships will play a vital role in our economic recovery from coronavirus.”