Exploring Careers at BAE Systems: Laura, Krystina, and Megan Share Their Stories
At BAE Systems, employees come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring with them diverse experiences that shape their unique contributions to the company. We spoke with three inspiring women—Laura, Krystina, and Megan—who have each taken different paths into the business, and they share their experiences, challenges, and the opportunities they’ve encountered along the way.
Let’s dive in!
From the British Army to Defence: Laura’s Journey
Laura is the IM&T Director at BAE Systems in Portsmouth, but her path here wasn’t a straight one. After serving in the British Army, she took a detour into retail before realising that her heart remained in the defence sector.
“I’ve been with BAE Systems for six years now, and I really love it. The determination, ethics, and commitment of the people I work with are amazing,” says Laura. “As ex-service personnel, I don’t think we always realise how driven people are here to do the right thing for the Armed Forces—that’s what keeps me here.”
Laura’s role involves integrating the "brains of the boat" and managing the platform systems of submarines. It’s a project management and technology-heavy role that she describes as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“I still pinch myself some days,” she says, recalling a particularly proud moment when she saw her early work come to life on the Dreadnought-class submarine. “It’s amazing to see how my contributions have impacted something so significant.”
For Laura, BAE Systems has been more than just a job—it’s been a community. She highlights the team spirit, collaboration, and support she has received since joining the company, as well as the opportunities for growth and learning. She’s also a proud member of the company’s gender and diversity network, and she appreciates how the organisation has embraced more inclusivity over time.
“BAE Systems is one of those places where you get back what you put in. The culture is collaborative, inclusive, and determined, and I’d absolutely recommend it, especially to ex-military personnel. You still get to contribute to something you’re passionate about.”
Engineering the Future: Krystina’s Role at BAE Systems
Krystina is a Senior Systems Engineer based in Warton, where she works on some of the critical systems that keep aircraft flying. She joined BAE Systems in 2014 after studying aerospace engineering at university and hasn’t looked back since.
“It’s a great team with real camaraderie,” says Krystina, who is currently working on the Tempest fighter jet project. “I’ve had the chance to work on some fantastic projects. Tempest is something I never thought I’d be involved in, but it’s been an amazing opportunity.”
For Krystina, the support she’s received throughout her career at BAE Systems has been invaluable. After taking maternity leave, she found the business eager to help her achieve her career goals, and she’s since been focusing on advancing her professional journey.
“I’m seeing more women gaining promotions, which is fantastic,” she says. “There are more female role models now, and that’s inspiring more women to join us. I think diversity of thought is key to innovation, and it’s exciting to see how BAE Systems is embracing that.”
Krystina is passionate about encouraging more women to enter STEM fields and plays an active role in the company’s Gender Equality Network. Her advice to women considering a career in engineering? “Don’t be put off by stereotypes. There’s so much opportunity here, and the teamwork and collaboration make it an exciting place to be.”
A Childhood Dream Realised: Megan’s Aerospace Career
For Megan, the Senior Flight Systems Engineer, a career at BAE Systems was a childhood dream come true. Growing up near the Warton airfield, she often watched the Tornado, Typhoon, and Hawk aircraft fly overhead, sparking her early interest in aerospace.
After starting her career in procurement, Megan transitioned into engineering, a move that BAE Systems fully supported. Since then, she has worked on cuing-edge projects like the Tempest programme, where she’s involved in the early design and integration of future aircraft technologies.
“My current role on Tempest is the most inspiring yet,” Megan shares. “It’s exciting to know that the work I’m doing today will shape the future of aerospace for years to come.”
Megan has found BAE Systems to be a place where diversity is not just encouraged, but celebrated. She’s part of a team that spans different ages, backgrounds, and genders, and the inclusive environment has made her feel right at home.
“The company has an inviting and engaging culture, which is why I’ve stayed,” she says. “The graduate programme was a brilliant starting point, giving me access to on-the-job experience and the chance to build my network across the business.”
In addition to her work, Megan is a STEM ambassador, helping promote engineering careers to young women and break down the stereotypes that often surround the field. A Common Thread of Passion and Purpose
Although Laura, Krystina, and Megan have all taken different routes into BAE Systems, their stories share common themes of passion, purpose, and the drive to make a difference. Whether it’s working on submarines, jet fighters, or future aircraft technologies, they are each playing a key role in advancing the capabilities that help protect the nation.
BAE Systems offers a supportive, inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and where employees have the chance to grow and develop their careers. For anyone considering a career in defence, the message from Laura, Krystina, and Megan is clear: there’s no beer time to join the team.
Want to join BAE Systems?
If you’d like to join the team at BAE Systems, please visit their careers page here. Follow what they are up to on their hackajob profile.
Like what you've read or want more like this? Let us know! Email us here or DM us: X, LinkedIn, or Instagram, we'd love to hear from you.
