BAE Systems inspires Rotherham College engineering students with industry insights
Learners studying BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing at Rotherham College recently had the opportunity to hear first-hand about careers in engineering from BAE Systems representative, Zeeshan Mahmood, who is a Through Life Support Engineer for Fast Jet Support.
The session, held at University Centre Rotherham, explored the engineering industry, the range of careers available and what employers look for when recruiting future engineers.
Routes into Engineering
Zeeshan shared his journey into engineering, from gaining his GCSEs and studying for an engineering degree at Sheffield Hallam University to securing roles within the sector. He also spoke about working part-time at ASDA alongside his studies and how the skills he developed there have continued to benefit him, including providing useful examples to draw on during job interviews.
His experience showed students that there isn’t always one straightforward route into engineering and that experience gained outside education can be just as valuable as qualifications. Students were encouraged to make the most of opportunities such as part-time work, volunteering and sport to develop transferable skills, including communication, teamwork, reliability, leadership and problem-solving, which can strengthen their CVs and help build a portfolio of experience.
Students also learned what employers look for during recruitment, including qualities beyond academic qualifications. Character, attitude, motivation and teamwork can all help candidates stand out when applying for engineering and other professional roles.
Simon Hartley, Skills Consultant Team Leader at Rotherham College, also shared practical interview advice, encouraging students to prepare thoroughly, use specific examples to demonstrate their skills and practise through mock interviews with friends or family.
Discovering BAE Systems
Zeeshan introduced students to BAE Systems and the work carried out by the company.
The session explored the company’s history and its position as one of the UK’s largest manufacturers and a major defence contractor in Europe. Students learned about the wide range of products and technologies developed by BAE Systems, from iconic aircraft such as the Spitfire, Concorde and Typhoon to the highly advanced technologies being developed today.
Zeeshan demonstrated how engineering continues to evolve, showing students examples of the types of technology they could potentially work with during a career in the sector.
One of the highlights was discovering the latest technologies and emerging projects apprentices could get involved with, including the development of new aircraft and cutting-edge technologies at the Falcon Works drone range.
Apprenticeships and Opportunities
The session also gave students an insight into the apprenticeship opportunities available at BAE Systems, including the types of roles they could apply for, the training involved and the salaries available.
Students were able to see how an apprenticeship can provide an alternative route into a highly skilled engineering career, combining practical experience and on-the-job training with further study.
For students studying Advanced Manufacturing at Rotherham College, hearing directly from industry professionals helps them understand employer expectations and how to prepare for the world of work.
The visit highlighted how the skills they are developing could lead to opportunities in higher education, apprenticeships or employment, potentially taking them from the classroom and workshop to working on some of the UK’s most advanced engineering projects.