BAE Systems commits £480,000 to cyber skills education

BAE Systems has pledged £480,000 to supporting cyber skills education in Lancashire.

The aerospace giant is backing InnovateHer and its investment will help 8,000 young people aged 13 to 17 over the next four years.

BAE Systems, which employs around 13,000 people in Lancashire, has already committed six figures to support to InnovateHer in its objective of increasing the uptake of STEM related subjects at GCSE.

InnovateHer, a social enterprise, has a particular focus on supporting females, minority groups and those from less advantaged backgrounds to promote the career possibility in digital and cyber, through a series of workshops, digital educational sessions and inspiring assemblies.  

Cliff Robson, group managing director of BAE Systems Air, said: "In our role contributing to the nation’s defence and security requirements, it is crucial we maintain a technological edge in digital and cyber skills and grow a more diverse workforce, so that we can deliver the next generation programmes and capabilities for our Armed Forces.

"We’re proud to continue our relationship with InnovateHer and the positive impact this will deliver to our communities in Lancashire as part of our long term approach to nurture technical skills and deliver high value and meaningful careers across the UK."

Chelsea Slater, co-founder and CEO of InnovateHer, said: "We’re grateful to BAE Systems for their continued support, enabling us to reach many more young people across Lancashire. 

“The team and I are proud to be continuing this important partnership over the next four years, raising the aspirations of students and tracking their progress into the tech and cyber industries."