At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions and employ a skilled workforce of some 89,600 people in more than 40 countries.
A key part of our approach is coding – where our software engineers are tasked with outsmarting, outdesigning and outpredicting complex problems. We want our coding teams to be as diverse as possible and that’s why we are partnering with Code First Girls, one of the largest providers of free coding courses for women in the UK, to sponsor its CFGdegree programme.
We’re also supporting National Coding Week, (NCW) which takes place this week, and which involves volunteers offering coding and programming taster sessions in schools, libraries, and businesses.
This year’s NCW theme is how learning new digital skills is going to help you, help others or help society. The digital economy has grown significantly in the past 8 years with more digital businesses forming. Some 50 per cent of digital product developers are self-taught and as many as 83 per cent of app developers have also taught themselves.
There are now more people working in tech jobs in the south east of England than the whole of California but there’s a skills shortage. Many adults could contribute to the digital economy if they had the confidence to get started.
Here, we chat to some of our very own coding gurus to find out more about their journeys into BAE Systems Digital Intelligence. Firstly, we meet Will, who joined through our National Security Cyber Accelerator, and Tom, Lead Software Engineer, who provides an overview of how you can apply to the NSCA. We also sit down with Lauren, who joined through our National Security Academy.
Will, Software Engineer at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
What was your background prior to coding and what inspired you to get into it?
“I originally studied Biochemistry at University. In my third year, I decided to do a conversion course to Computer Science. When I graduated, I came across the NSCA. I always liked problem solving so decided to apply.”
What was the journey like into your coding role with BAE Systems Digital Intelligence?
“The Cyber Accelerator advertises itself as a programme to build technical skills and progress into a research or engineering role. I found it a positive experience.”
What is a general day in the life of a coder at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence?
“I start the day with a team meeting, chat through the goals and objectives of the day and ask for advice if needed. The rest of the day is spent working through our current coding requirements. I find it to be a supportive working environment.”
What would be your advice to someone thinking about getting into coding?
“I would say to always ask questions. There is so much new to learn, embrace this and absorb the knowledge around you.”
Tom, Lead Software Engineer at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
“The NSCA started with a focus on training future software engineers and researchers. We teach the skills that our clients most demand. We mix teaching with project work, mentored by experienced engineers. Security clearance vetting starts during training so candidates taking part move straight into their new roles after completion.”
Lauren, Software Engineer at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
What was your background prior to coding and what inspired you to get into it?
“I originally did a degree in Fashion Design, I’ve also previously worked as a housekeeper and nanny but wasn’t feeling fulfilled. I later became obsessed with intelligence and coding and bought a Raspberry Pi to play with. I then looked for the right course to build technical skills and found QA Apprenticeships’ free Digital Skills Bootcamps. I worked nights at Waitrose so I could earn money whilst attending the 12-week daytime course."
What was the journey like into your coding role with BAE Systems Digital Intelligence?
“I attended a careers talk with Tim Barton from QA who was helping to recruit for the National Security Academy. I relocated from Norfolk to Gloucester to start the course in April and my role started in June.”
What is a general day in the life of a coder at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence?
“I start the day by checking my emails and actioning priorities. The rest of the day is spent working in pairs with new starters and senior developers online or in person to complete the tasks that are assigned to us.”
What would be your advice to someone thinking about getting into coding?
“Depending on your experience, if it’s none, start out with QA Apprenticeships free boot camp before looking for company roles.”
Find out more about our National Security Cyber Accelerator
National Security Cyber Accelerator
To register your interest in applying, email cyberaccelerator@baesystems.com. We’re looking for applications from candidates who have some experience developing software – either during a university degree, in a previous job or from working on your own personal projects. Our next intake will be in 2023.
Find out more about our National Security Apprenticeship
National Security Apprenticeship
We’re looking for applications from candidates who’ve already completed a QA Apprenticeship Bootcamp. Register your interest in applying
