ENGINEERS and STEM professionals across Scotland who are struggling to return to the sector following career breaks can benefit from a new returners programme at BAE Systems.
In partnership with STEM Returners, the 12-week paid placement will be based in Glasgow and will comprise seven new roles within BAE’s Naval Ships division.
STEM Returners will source candidates for the ‘returnship’, allowing individuals to be re-integrated into an inclusive environment upon their return to STEM. They will also receive career coaching and mentoring.
The programme is the latest in a history of programmes between STEM Returners and BAE Systems, which have helped nearly 100 engineers back to industry across the UK. It is the fifth to be based in Scotland.
Despite achieving HND-level qualifications in both engineering systems and draughting & design from the City of Glasgow College, Jack Dyer found it hard to get his first role in the industry. He explained, “While applying for many job roles, I quickly realised the challenges I faced. Entry-level jobs needed years of experience and trainee positions were tailored towards a young demographic. I was truly disheartened and felt stuck.”
Jack joined the STEM Returners programme with BAE Systems and has now been made a permanent member of the team as a detail designer. He added, “The opportunity with STEM Returners has allowed me to finally work within an engineering discipline, on incredible military projects.”
Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners, commented, “BAE Systems and STEM Returners have a successful and longstanding relationship that has helped nearly 100 people find their way back to employment. I am incredibly proud to see that relationship continue with the launch of this new programme which will provide more opportunities for engineers and STEM professionals in Scotland to return to the sector.”
Stuart Justice, engineering director, BAE Systems Maritime – Naval Ships, added, “We are really keen to work with STEM Returners again and welcome back skilled people to the industry. We need qualified engineers now more than ever and have a growing order book for Global Combat Ship meaning there is exciting, long-term work available for people to develop their career.”
Research from STEM Returners (STEM Returners Index) has found many people face challenges when returning to work following a career break, with recruitment bias against a lack of recent experience as well as gender, age, and race cited as the main barriers to entry.
STEM Returners’ programme aims to eliminate these by giving candidates real work experience and mentoring during their placement and helping them adjust to life back in work.
To view STEM Returners’ opportunities, visit https://stemreturners.com/live-programmes/.
