BAE Systems Australia welcomes new apprentices

As the new year commences, BAE Systems Australia continues its commitment to building workforce capability in taking on new apprentices across its programs. Forty apprentices have begun their trades careers in Adelaide, South Australia. This intake represents the largest ever cohort of apprentices being deployed on the Hunter Class Frigate Program. The apprentices will join more than 1,800 people already working on the program, nearly 1,400 of whom are based at the Osborne Naval Shipyard, where Schedule Protection Blocks — to be used in the first of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare frigates — are currently under construction. The apprentices will take up a range of roles in manufacturing, piping and mechanical trades. Five members of the cohort will start work as electro-technology and machining apprentices at our production workshops. Seven are existing BAE Systems employees who are continuing their career journey as mature-aged apprentices. Managing Director of BAE Systems Australia – Maritime, Craig Lockhart, said: “We welcome each apprentice into the Hunter program and look forward to their development and contribution towards Continuous Naval Shipbuilding in Australia. I started my own career journey as an apprentice technician and look forward to working alongside the cohort as they progress, developing skills and a combined capability that ensures South Australia is a key part of CNS for decades to come. Each apprentice underscores Australia’s commitment to establishing a sovereign capable workforce in shipbuilding.” Metal Fabrication Apprentice, Wren, said: “I’m really passionate about the shipbuilding industry and looking to build a career in it. I chose BAE Systems as it’s the number one defence company, which will mean a career for life.” South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer, said: “Congratulations to all of the new BAE Systems apprentices. It is fantastic to see a record number of new apprentices starting at BAE Systems in 2024. It is an exciting time to be entering the defence industry with South Australia preparing for its nation-leading role in the AUKUS deal and the ramp up of the Hunter Class Frigate Program build. The Malinauskas Government is committed to building a highly skilled defence industry workforce and we are proud to be working with leading companies like BAE Systems to achieve this. An apprenticeship with BAE Systems is achieved through years of dedication and hard work. Whether from a school pathway or as a mature aged worker changing jobs and can lead to a rewarding job for life in our shipyards.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]