The new Applied Shipbuilding Academy at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun shipyard in Glasgow has opened its doors, BAE Systems announced on 19 August 2024.
Costing GBP 12 million (EUR 14 million) and covering 5,500 m2, the new academy is a state-of-the-art training facility designed to develop the entire shipbuilding workforce, from new starters to senior leaders. The academy, which comprises a Modern Trade Hall and a Flexible Learning Hub, will be a key training facility for all the apprentices and graduates in the company’s Naval Ships business as well as provide life-long learning and skills development activities for around 4,500 employees.
“The Applied Shipbuilding Academy is an extraordinary innovation centre that will enable outstanding learning across our entire workforce and help secure a strong future talent pipeline,” Paul Feely, academy and engineering director for BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Investing in our people and harnessing the latest technological advancements is fundamental to our mission, enabling us to deliver on the national endeavour that is the Type 26 programme and future projects. This commitment ensures that we can equip navies worldwide with a decisive competitive edge for generations to come.”
Following similar investments in both Samlesbury and Barrow-in-Furness in the northwest of England, the academy in Glasgow is BAE Systems’ third dedicated training facility. These facilities use the knowledge and experience of the company’s training staff to provide a bespoke modern learning environment for BAE Systems’ near 40,000-strong workforce across the UK.
Construction of the Janet Harvey Hall, a cutting-edge new shipbuilding facility in Govan, Glasgow, is also well under way. The new facilities, together with a range of additional investments in technologies and equipment, form an overall GBP 300 million investment in BAE Systems’ two shipbuilding sites in Glasgow over the next five years.
These investments are key elements in the modernisation and digitalisation of both the Govan and Scotstoun yards, supporting the delivery of the eight Type 26 frigates ordered by the Royal Navy as well as potential future orders.
