YUSUF, 22, is a third-year manufacturing technician apprentice at BAE Systems in Lancashire, working on military aircraft programmes.
“My favourite thing about my apprenticeship is the variety. I’m training to become a Level 4 manufacturing technician, which allows me to be incredibly hands-on with the aircraft we’re developing, as well as having an office-based role focused on problem-solving.
“This type of blended experience – being able to be on the factory floor or in the office and the ability to study while I work – suits me down to the ground.
“I’m the first person in my family to do an apprenticeship. I was lucky as my high school was great at making us aware of all the opportunities available beyond university. I speak to so many young people who aren’t familiar with apprenticeships, or what they can offer, and have ended up on a path that doesn’t suit how they learn or their ambitions.”
Yusuf grew up and went to school in Lancashire. It was at school he first heard about BAE Systems and the possibility of kick-starting his career as an apprentice.
“From the first time we were introduced to BAE Systems, I knew it was the place for me, offering a well-paid job and securing a role while gaining my qualifications. I’ve always had a passion for engineering, and when I saw other Asian people working at BAE Systems, I thought, ‘I want that to be me.’”
“While I was certain about an apprenticeship at BAE Systems, I wasn’t initially accepted. Instead, after my GCSEs, I studied for a Level 3 engineering course at college, but I wasn’t the type who thrived by studying for tests.
“However, I’m very driven! After my college course, I worked at a call centre for a year whilst I focused on my application to BAE Systems, and on my third attempt, I was accepted.
“I’m now in the third year of my apprenticeship. So far in my role, I’ve supported both the development of the Tempest, the next-generation fighter jet for the Royal Air Force, and the implementation of innovative technologies in our Factory of the Future Read More…
Comments