Just over 10 years ago, I joined BAE Systems through Movement to Work (MtW), a programme that offers work experience to young people who are not in employment, education, or training. Known as NEETs, there’s almost 1 million 16 - 24-year-olds in the UK who find themselves in this position. I was one of the statistics; unemployed, unsure, and trying to find my footing. I had two young children to support, and I couldn’t find any work with certainty or opportunity.
By chance, I saw a poster in my Job Centre for a work experience placement with BAE Systems. This became a turning point. Today, I am in a leadership position in BAE Systems’ Data Analytics team based at the company’s Shared Services’ business in Preston. My team leads on the development of global HR reporting development in multiple regions.
Over the last decade, I’ve supported every MtW cohort that’s come through Shared Services at BAE Systems. I’ve seen young people walk in with doubt and walk out with direction. Some have stayed with us and gone on to thrive. In my team alone, Isaac, is now a team leader. Another, Brandon, recently led a cohort and earlier this month won The King’s Trust Young Achiever for the Year in England as well as MtW’s Rising Star Award in 2025. Dean came through the programme, earned a permanent role, and has since been promoted. These are exceptional individuals - and they came through a programme that many companies still view as just a “nice-to-have.”
By chance, I saw a Movement to Work poster in my Job Centre for a work experience placement with BAE Systems. This became a turning point.FrazerData Analytics Team Leader
When people ask why I continue to support MtW, the answer’s simple: I know exactly what it feels like to be given a chance - and what can happen when someone believes in you.
What’s striking about MtW is how easily it integrates with business-as-usual. You don’t need a huge budget or a separate function. With the right guidance and commitment, you can create opportunities that are simple to run but life-changing in impact. These young people bring fresh thinking, resilience, digital awareness, and an eagerness to learn. They come ready to prove themselves.
And the benefits go beyond just filling roles. MtW supports succession planning, energises teams, and contributes to a culture where development is at the centre. At BAE Systems, our MTW participants have gone on to lead others, deliver transformation projects, and speak publicly about their journeys. It’s a cycle of growth that starts with a single opportunity.
I was honoured to be named Mentor of the Year at the 2025 MtW Awards. That recognition means a lot - but for me, it represents something much bigger. It shows what’s possible when business and community come together around a shared mission: to give young people a chance.
So, if you’re a business leader, HR professional, or a people manager thinking about getting involved - do it. Offer a placement. Join a Taster Day. Tell your story. You won’t just be helping a young person - you’ll be strengthening your own organisation.
Ten years ago, someone opened that door for me. I’ve been walking through ever since - and now, I help others do the same.
Over the last two years, MtW has offered young people in the UK 68,000 opportunities, with 84% leading to employment, further education, or training.
This year at BAE Systems we’re increasing the number of work experience placements we can offer through the charity by more than 30%. Find out how your business can support young people through Movement to Work.