Off the back of a successful trial in 2021, BAE Systems Australia has announced 10 internships are on offer within the national company through the STEM Returners Australia program.

STEM Returners targets candidates with science, technology, engineering and maths skills who have had an extended career break or who may be keen to move from another sector into defence and matches them to paid career opportunities.

BAE Systems Australia was the first defence company to partner with STEM Returners last year, when they offered six internships through the program, with five people being offered permanent positions as a result.

Now, in 2022, the company will be offering 10 placements in Adelaide and Melbourne in which the workers will gain experience on some of the biggest programs BAE Systems is delivering for the Australian Defence Force.

BAE Systems Australia’s Chief People Officer, Danielle Mesa, said last year’s trial was proof there is an untapped talent pool across the country of people with STEM skills and engineering experience.

Ms Mesa also highlighted that the trial emphasised the diversity within the pool of skilled people.

“Importantly, our trial reflected the results of similar trials overseas with our STEM Returners being largely women and people from ethnic backgrounds, compared with traditional recruitment pathways,” Ms Mesa said.

“Our aim is to attract a diverse range of engineers who can contribute to the continued development of technologies that underpin the nation’s defence and security”

Director of STEM Returners Australia, Marcail Roe, said the company is looking forward to an ongoing relationship with BAE Systems.

“BAE Systems have shown that it really values the skills and experience that returners have to offer. The company creates a supportive and inclusive environment where returners really thrive,” Ms Roe said.

Register your interest in the BAE Systems Australia STEM Returners program

Find out more about STEM Returners Australia

Image: Singithi was an intern at BAE Systems Australia through STEM Returners in 2021. She has successfully returned to the company as a Software Engineer. Via BAE Systems Australia.