Not everyone can say that their job entails providing national security for the UK, but trainees at MBDA definitely can. Over 100 apprentices and graduates at the company are currently learning all about the missile systems sector and what it takes to provide a range of complex weapons systems for our Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force.
Founded in 2001, MBDA is the joint venture of three international leaders in aerospace and defence: BAE Systems, Airbus and Leonardo. It is one of the leading companies in its sector within Europe, with a current total of 5,084 members of staff in the UK alone.
The business is proud to report that it has had a 38 per cent increase in its ongoing apprenticeship programme since 2022 alone, and it's not difficult to see why. Based on its four-year-long scheme, apprentices with MBDA can learn a wide range of skills and gain hands-on experience in their role, all while working actively on the company's current projects and contributing ideas for future business growth.
Apprentices at MBDA's Bolton, Henlow, Stevenage and Bristol locations can choose from disciplines such as engineering and design, finance, commercial, administration, manufacturing and production, or digital technology solutions. The apprenticeship schemes range from Level 3 to degree standard at Level 6 onwards, including HNC and HND qualifications.
Depending on where they are based, trainees also have the opportunity to attend university or college part-time as the business works with local providers in the area to deliver its apprenticeship programmes. These include Weston College, Bolton University and the University of Hertfordshire.
Trainees also get to take advantage of rotational placements across different divisions of the business, which range from between three to 12 months. These allow both apprentices and graduates to upskill themselves and learn more about different areas of the company.
MBDA helps apprentices to work on their soft skills through ongoing workshops. Examples of these include how to manage stress and work on their communication, so they can apply this type of knowledge to their personal life as well as their everyday job role.
The company also actively pushes corporate responsibility as part of its new and current projects. Apprentices are regularly able to contribute to sustainability networks and make sure it's at the forefront of the business' everyday operations.
Amy Candler, HR advisor at MBDA says: "At MBDA, our trainees are never just an apprentice or a new starter. They're part of our valuable team of staff from day one, who contribute towards the growth of our business and have their say on how we move forward as a company.
"They can join in on our current projects and get the full support and training they need on their journey. All apprentices are also guaranteed a full-time role with us after they complete their apprenticeship, meaning they can look forward to developing their career with us in the years to come."
MBDA will be sponsoring the Small - Medium Employer of the Year category at the South West Apprenticeship Awards this year. The much-anticipated awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Ashton Gate Stadium, nomination and ticket details can be found online.
To find out more about apprenticeships at MBDA, visit the website.
