Behind every submarine that slips beneath the surface, every aircraft that takes to the sky, and every advanced defence system that keeps nations safe, there are skilled trades professionals. Welders, electricians, pipefitters, engineers, technicians and more, whose hands, knowledge and precision turn complex engineering designs into operational reality. At BAE Systems these roles are foundational.

This blog explores what it means to build a skilled trades career at BAE Systems: the pathways in, the opportunities ahead, and the mindset that makes someone thrive in one of the most technically demanding environments in the world.

Many routes in, one mission

There is no single route into skilled trades at BAE Systems, and that's by design. Apprenticeships remain one of the most common paths, offering nationally recognised qualifications, a real salary, and the chance to work on live programmes from day one. But the door is equally open to experienced trades professionals moving from other industries, those transitioning out of the Armed Forces, and people returning to work after a career break.

The real value begins after someone joins; support doesn't end once someone starts. As individuals grow, BAE Systems provides upskilling in advanced manufacturing techniques, digital tools and emerging technologies, alongside opportunities to gain additional certifications and step into specialist or supervisory roles.

Careers that go where you want them to

Progression in skilled trades at BAE Systems is anything but linear and that's one of its greatest strengths. Some people choose to deepen their technical expertise, becoming highly regarded specialists in areas like fabrication, welding, electrical installation or advanced manufacturing. Others move into team leader, supervisory or production management roles, bringing their hands-on knowledge to guiding the next generation.

There are also routes into planning, quality assurance, training and engineering support functions. Because of the scale and complexity of BAE Systems' programmes, careers can be shaped to reflect individual interests, strengths and long-term ambitions. The scope is genuinely rare.

Caroline, Principal Manufacturing Engineer shares more on her journey at BAE Systems.

“My career with BAE Systems began when I joined as a Manufacturing Engineer in the graduate programme over eight years ago. Coming straight out of university, I applied to BAE Systems, as one of the top employers for different types of manufacturing and engineering opportunities. So I took the job in Barrow, moved down straight from university and have been here ever since.

I stayed with the company after the graduate role for the opportunities it gave me. The team I wanted to move to didn’t exist, so I got to build a new team from scratch. Initially there were just the two of us, with my manager and I working across the new and existing teams and we've now been able to build up a team of people to join us. I wasn't in a senior position, however I've always felt like I've had responsibility right from the start, so it’s been quite good to get that opportunity. I think it was an opportunity that I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else.”

What it takes to thrive and how it's changing

Technical capability has always been at the heart of skilled trades. But the professionals who truly stand out today bring something more: pride in their craft, a relentless attention to detail and an unwavering focus on safety. These qualities have always mattered. What's changing is that adaptability is now equally essential.

As the defence industry modernises, skilled trades increasingly sit at the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and advanced engineering. Digital tools, new manufacturing techniques and evolving systems are becoming part of everyday working life. The most successful people are curious, comfortable with change, and committed to continuous learning.

Valued from the inside out

Recognising the contribution of skilled trades professionals isn't just something BAE Systems talks about externally. It starts internally. Through leadership engagement, internal communications and recognition initiatives, the organisation actively celebrates the work of trades colleagues. Investment in development pathways and skills progression frameworks makes the long-term value of these careers visible and tangible.

Real career stories, from apprentices just finding their feet to experienced specialists who've spent decades honing their expertise, are shared to reinforce a simple but important truth: skilled trades are central to BAE Systems' success, not peripheral to it.

David, Production Supervisor and Veteran shares more on how BAE Systems helped him achieve his career and life goals.

“Working at BAE Systems is special to me because we’re part of something that’s big. This is a project that requires thousands of people over multiple years, something that’s bigger than the individual. With BAE Systems, I’ve got infinite possibilities. And it’s challenging work and it’s very rewarding. And if there’s anything you really want to do you can always ask the question and sink your teeth into something new.”

“The company itself is very flexible so you can get the family stuff done right. But I have that really good work-life balance where I can take the kids away, go to their footy matches or if I need to go on a school excursion anything is really possible. In my personal life, not only am I a father but also a member of the Army Reserves. BAE Systems supports me in the leave I need. Whenever something comes up they say ‘yep, we’ll let you do your part to be a part of the community'.”

Support that moves with you

The way BAE Systems supports its people evolves as careers do. For apprentices and those just starting out, that means structured learning programmes, workplace mentors and genuine hands-on experience across real projects. The foundation is built deliberately and carefully.

For experienced professionals, the focus shifts. Opportunities to gain additional qualifications, develop digital skills and expand technical expertise become available. And for those ready to step into leadership, development in people management ensures that the move upward doesn't mean leaving technical strengths behind, unless that's what someone chooses.

Skilled trades at BAE Systems offer something increasingly rare in the modern jobs market: genuine depth, genuine purpose, and genuine scope. From the first day of an apprenticeship to decades of specialist expertise, these are careers that build real things, things that matter.

The people behind those capabilities deserve to be seen, valued and supported. At BAE Systems, they are.