More adults are choosing apprenticeships to change careers, return to work after a break, or transition from military service into civilian roles.
From engineering and digital, to business and project management, apprenticeships now cover a huge range of professional roles, and support people at every life stage who want to build new skills, apply curiosity and collaborate in new work environments.
At BAE Systems, apprentices don’t just learn a role - they pioneer new skills, bring fresh thinking and contribute to innovation, while helping to protect people, communities and national security through the work they support.
There’s no single route into an apprenticeship
Career paths aren’t always linear. Many people discover what truly motivates them later in life, after exploring different roles, industries or personal priorities.
Apprenticeships work especially well for people who prefer to learn through hands-on experience, practical problem-solving and continuous curiosity - building new technical and professional skills while contributing to real projects that matter.
There’s no single route to success. University wasn’t for me. I tried different career paths until I realised, I wanted to build something long-term for myself. Apprenticeships helped shape my career - there’s no wrong path, just yours.AnnaUK Electrical Apprentice
Why apprenticeships work at BAE Systems?
Our apprentices are empowered to pioneer new ideas, develop advanced skills and contribute to innovation - while helping protect what matters most.
Apprenticeships combine:
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Real work experience on meaningful programmes
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Industry-recognised qualifications
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Earning while learning
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Mentoring, collaboration and continuous development
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Job security and long-term career progression
Retraining at 34 felt intimidating, especially in a completely new field. But the culture and support made the transition easier than expected. An apprenticeship allowed me to upskill, gain real experience and earn qualifications while contributing from day one.CraigUK IM&T Apprentice and Army Veteran
Returning to work or rebuilding confidence
For some, life’s up or downs may have affected early education. Others may have taken time away from work to raise families, care for others or reset priorities. Apprenticeships provide a supportive route back into structured learning and professional development.
By developing new skills in practical environments, apprentices build confidence and add value to the business - for example at BAE Systems, you can contribute to teams that innovate, improve processes and deliver solutions that help create a safer and more sustainable future.
Apprenticeships are an amazing alternative to GCSEs and/or A Levels. You can earn while you learn, gain practical experience from day one and still achieve qualifications. Learning on the job is incredibly beneficial - and you’ve always got options.FrancescaUK Electrical Apprentice
From military service to civilian careers
Veterans bring organisation, resilience and teamwork - qualities that strengthen collaboration and delivery across complex programmes. Apprenticeships offer a structured way to transfer those strengths into civilian careers while building new technical capability.
Find out more about veterans at BAE Systems
Making the choice to leave the military is huge. Joining BAE Systems as a mature apprentice was daunting but exciting. They respect your experience, and the transition feels like joining a family. Your skills remain valuable - and transferable.RachaelElectrician and Royal Navy Veteran
Ready to explore your path?
Whether you’re changing direction, returning after a career break, leaving the armed forces, or simply ready for something new, an apprenticeship can unlock a whole new world of potential.
Find out more about BAE Systems apprenticeships today and discover how you can build your future through hands-on learning, real opportunities and meaningful work.