BAE Systems employees. Credit: BAE Systems.
Published: September 14, 2023 | Updated: 13th September 2023

STEM Returners, the Hampshire-based organisation which helps STEM professionals back into work following a career break, has launched its second programme with BAE Systems’ submarines business in the south.
The new 12-week placement programme will be carried out at BAE Systems sites across the south, including Portsmouth, Frimley, Weymouth and Bristol, with positions such as Systems Engineering and Safety Engineers among the 10 roles available.
STEM Returners, a leading organisation in the UK in returner programmes, will source returners for the roles and provide them with additional support including advice, career coaching, and mentoring; ensuring applicants are ready and confident to return to work.
It continues a long-term partnership between the two organisations which goes back to 2017, when BAE Systems was one of the first UK companies to welcome a STEM Returners programme after it launched. In subsequent years programmes have taken place at BAE Systems sites across the UK.

Natalie Desty, STEM Returners Founder
Natalie Desty, Director of STEM Returners, said: “Over the years, we have built a strong relationship with BAE Systems who share our desire to change outdated recruitment practices. We are delighted to be continuing that relationship and launching this second programme in its Submarines business.
“Only by working together to create a supportive and inclusive environment where returners can really thrive, will we deal with the well-known skills shortage in the UK engineering industry.”
David Clemmitt, Engineering Discipline Leader at BAE Systems, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the STEM Returners programme again to support highly qualified and experienced candidates back into a STEM role.
“The programme provides a fantastic opportunity and route for talented people to restart their career or transfer their skills into a different industry.”
Since STEM Returners launched in 2017, more than 400 STEM Returner candidates have joined programmes across the UK. To view STEM Returners availabilities, visit https://www.stemreturners.com/returner-placements/