BAE Systems' £12m Applied Shipbuilding Academy opens in Glasgow

BAE Systems’ new £12 million state-of-the-art training facility has opened in Glasgow to ensure Scottish shipbuilding has a thriving workforce for generations to come, as stated in a press release.

The Applied Shipbuilding Academy at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun shipyard measures 5,500m^2 and is designed to develop the entire workforce, from new starters to senior leaders.

It is also stated that the Academy will be a key training facility for all the apprentices and graduates in the Company’s Naval Ships business as well as provide life-long learning and skills development activities for around 4,500 employees.

The company shared the following statement on the Academy:

“The Academy comprises a Modern Trade Hall and a Flexible Learning Hub. The Hall offers a high quality, hands-on training environment where learners are fully immersed in realistic ship mock-ups. The adjacent Hub houses over 30 teaching spaces, a cutting-edge science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) innovation lab, an exhibition area and conference space.

The investment will help ensure that current and future employees can reach their full potential in priority areas for the shipbuilding and maritime industry.”

Paul Feely, Academy and Engineering Director, BAE Systems’ Naval Ships: “Investing in our people and harnessing the latest technological advancements is fundamental to our mission, enabling us to deliver on the national endeavor that is the Type 26 program and future projects. This commitment ensures that we can equip navies worldwide with a decisive competitive edge for generations to come.”

Rod Paterson, Chief Executive Officer, National Shipbuilding Office: “The BAE Systems Applied Shipbuilding Academy is a fantastic enduring commitment which will develop a pipeline of skilled workers fit for the future. I look forward to the contribution the Academy will make to creating a highly skilled workforce and our national shipbuilding capabilities. It is excellent to see the vision become a reality.”

The Academy in Glasgow is BAE Systems’ third training facility. The company also plans to construct a shipbuilding facility in Govan, which makes an overall £300m investment for the two shipbuilding sites over the next five years.

It is stated that these investments will support the delivery of the eight Type 26 frigates ordered by the Royal Navy, as well as potential future orders.

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