Growing up, a career in space always felt exciting, but distant. It was something you watched, not something you did. That’s why I believe so strongly that growing space talent in the UK matters. We need to show people that space isn’t out of reach, it’s a real, tangible career path. And for me, the Space Systems Degree Apprenticeship with BAE Systems Digital Intelligence has opened that door.
Before starting this journey, I never imagined I’d be working in the space sector. As someone who began my career as a truck driver, I’d taken a very different route. But that’s exactly why this programme is so important – it creates opportunities for people from all walks of life to follow their ambitions.
The apprenticeship itself is a unique blend of learning and real-world experience. Over four and a half years, we’re paid to learn, spending one day a week at university working towards a degree in Space Systems Engineering, and four days applying that knowledge directly in the business. That balance is what makes it so powerful. You’re not just studying theory, you’re living it.
One of my favourite parts of the role is working in the clean room. It’s a fast-paced, high-energy environment where every detail matters. There’s a real sense of purpose and collaboration here, with everyone pulling together to make sure systems perform as they should. It’s challenging, but that’s what drew me in. If you want to push yourself and grow, there’s no better place than space.
BAE Systems’ continued investment in space apprenticeships recognises the need for a whole-of-ecosystem approach to building the UK’s space capability; bringing together industry, education and government to develop the skills we need for the future. At Digital Intelligence, we often talk about delivering the Power of Perspective. For me, that’s about seeing potential where others might not – whether that’s in technology, or in people.
This apprenticeship has changed my perspective on what’s possible. I’ve gone from watching space launches to playing a part, however small, in shaping the systems behind them. And if we want to keep growing the UK’s space sector, we need to keep creating paths like this – for future engineers, innovators and problem-solvers to step into.
Because the next generation of space talent is out there. They just need the opportunity to begin.