Engineering Experience Matters: Why Age Inclusive Workplaces like BAE Systems are Future Focused

As the world rapidly evolves in a landscape shaped by automation, digital transformation and global infrastructure demands, one thing has become crystal clear -skilled engineers are more vital than ever.

Across the UK, industries from defence and advanced manufacturing are feeling the pressure of a widening engineering skills gap. The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) recently reported that around half of UK engineering businesses are experiencing difficulties in recruiting the right talent. With large-scale national projects underway from sustainable naval fleets to new digital defence systems, the need for technically skilled, problem-solving minds is accelerating. And not just fresh out of university.

While there's often a focus on attracting early-careers talent, more and more organisations are waking up to the fact that engineers with long-standing experience bring invaluable depth, knowledge and leadership to the teams they join. These are professionals who have spent years (even decades) honing their skills in high-pressure environments, solving complex problems, and adapting through major shifts in technology. And they are the key to bridging today’s skills gap.

Why Experience Matters More Than Ever

Experienced engineers don’t just bring technical expertise. They bring judgement, resilience, and a wider perspective, all honed through years of real-world application. Many have worked across disciplines, sectors and projects, which gives them an innate ability to mentor others, troubleshoot complex systems, and anticipate challenges before they arise. In short: they make exceptional colleagues, leaders, and culture-setters.

With multigenerational workforces becoming the norm, organisations benefit enormously from team leaders who can unite people of different ages and working styles. Engineers over 40 (and especially over 50) often lead by example, bringing a calm, solutions-focused mindset to high-stakes projects and a mentoring approach that lifts others around them.

BAE Systems: Where Experience is a Strength

BAE Systems, one of the UK’s largest employers of engineers, understands this better than most. With over 100,000 employees across the world and a presence in over 40 countries, BAE Systems delivers cutting-edge technology solutions that protect people, national security, and critical infrastructure. And at the heart of it all are the people -including many who’ve joined mid-career or later in life.

As an employer, BAE Systems has made a strong commitment to age inclusivity. Their approach is built on the understanding that people’s careers don’t always follow a straight path and that talent, capability and drive don’t come with an expiry date.

A Workplace That Works for Everyone

So what makes BAE Systems a place where experienced engineers thrive?

It starts with their inclusive culture. From flexible and hybrid working options to robust learning and development opportunities, BAE Systems supports people at every stage of their career. Their benefits include private healthcare, a generous pension scheme, enhanced annual leave, shares incentive plans and wellbeing support - making it easier to plan for the future and stay healthy while doing meaningful work.

Importantly, there's also the opportunity to work on long-term projects with real purpose. Engineers at BAE Systems aren’t just developing new systems, they’re building technologies that help protect armed forces, secure national infrastructure and contribute to global safety. It’s work that has impact, and it’s work worth being proud of.

As an employer, BAE Systems has been recognised for its commitment to inclusion. With employee resource groups like EncourAGE - a group dedicated to celebrating the contribution of multigenerational teams, and a wider strategy that actively supports veterans, career changers, and those returning to work after time away, BAE Systems ensures that everyone has a seat at the table.

Working with 55/Redefined

BAE Systems has chosen to work with 55/Redefined to access a rich pool of skilled professionals over 50 through their specialist jobs board Jobs/Redefined. This collaboration opens up access to candidates who can be hard to reach through traditional recruitment channels but who have exactly the experience and perspective that’s needed.

A Call to Action: Bring Your Experience

As the UK continues to face a shortage of engineering talent, now is the time to rethink what great engineering teams look like. Experience shouldn’t be sidelined, it should be front and centre. Because when you blend deep knowledge with emerging innovation, you get solutions that are robust, efficient, and future-ready.

For professionals over 40 considering their next step, whether it’s a new challenge, a more stable role, or a chance to work with purpose, BAE Systems offers more than just a job. It’s a place to thrive, to contribute, and to make a real difference.