BAE Systems to welcome thousands of apprentice and graduate roles to Lancashire

Lancashire based BAE Systems have announced thousands of new apprentice and graduate roles in 2024.

The defence giant says they plan to create almost 2,700 new apprentice and graduate opportunities across the UK, with more than 60 programmes available.

There will be roles in numerous areas including steelwork and electrical engineering, cyber security, software development, human resources and project management.

Chief executive Charles Woodburn said: "As the UK's largest manufacturer, we have sites located right across the country and we're investing hundreds of millions of pounds to equip young people with the skills they need to achieve their full potential.

"Providing high-quality apprenticeships and graduate programmes gives young people a route into long-term employment and helps to grow the talent we need to deliver vital national defence and security programmes, including future fighter jets, nuclear-powered submarines and Low Earth Orbit satellites."

Minister for higher education, apprenticeships and skills Robert Halfon said: "We need big employers on side in our efforts to build a skills and apprenticeships nation, and this record-breaking announcement from BAE Systems is fantastic to see.

"Apprenticeships provide a ladder of opportunity for people to get in-demand skills and really push on in their careers, and these roles offered by a top apprenticeship employer will transform lives and boost growth right around the UK."

In the north west, 1500 roles are being created, including 494 at the Preston site and 989 at Barrow.