Meet Sam, a Graduate Electrical Engineer in Barrow-in-Furness

‘I graduated with a BE in electrical and electronic engineering from the University of Sheffield and started with BAE Systems straight out of uni, joining as a graduate electrical engineer.

I’m currently working in the submarine sector. It sounds like a cliché, but I really do learn something new all the time. All the different systems that I work on are at the forefront of innovation, and I get to learn about different standards of communication and technologies that aren’t used anywhere else but in submarines. My favourite thing about the job is that I get to cover such a broad range of work across the electrical engineering department, combining practical work with understanding the theory behind it. I really enjoy working with all the other people in my team – everyone I’ve worked with has always been supportive and there to help me.

I really do learn something new all the time. All the different systems that I work on are at the forefront of innovation... I get to cover such a broad range of work.

The work-life balance here is great. We do work hard as a team to get the job done, but there is flexibility in our working week. With flexi-hours we can finish at 12.30 on Fridays. And if I need to leave early to get something done in the afternoon, I can come in early and finish early. I have so much free time to use – which means I get to spend more time with family and friends and on my hobbies outside of work.

Loads of social activities are organised for us – not only is the social life great, but knowing my colleagues really well also helps us work together as a team. A lot of the grads I started with play different sports together every Tuesday and Wednesday, and I also play sport with the team in my office on Mondays.

We’re given lots of responsibility from the get-go - in my first few months, I was given the opportunity to work in different labs and on lots of different systems. There’s constant support and reassurance, and that’s really boosted my confidence and has ensured I’m able to progress and develop quickly.'