WHEN Hazel McGarth finished high school, she was faced with two choices – to go to university or learn a trade.

For her, the decision was simple.

She signed up for an apprenticeship scheme at BAE Systems in Glasgow - and has never looked back.

Now, the 18-year-old is progressing well through a three-year programme to become a project manager, working on the construction of naval ships.

She said: “The thought of going to university for three years and then not gaining employment at the end really didn’t appeal to me.

“I’ve always been very practical and learning on the job and having a trade for life really suited me.

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“I felt an academic path wasn’t right for me. I wanted a job where I could gain qualifications but also learn a practical skill, and get paid at the same time. I quickly decided that I wanted to find a role where I could boost my confidence, grow into a job and develop my skill set, so I decided this was the best way forward.”

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After applying online, Hazel was accepted on to the programme, and is currently working within the project controls department, which sees her essentially problem-solving across a number of areas as the company works to maintain budgets while reaching new milestones.

She has already stood proudly at the yard as the first Type 26, HMS Glasgow, set sail from Govan.

She explained: “The apprenticeship is hands-on and you get to work with the very best people in the industry while gaining invaluable knowledge at the same time. I've been able to be part of a team that designs and builds some of the world’s most advanced warships, and that is experience you just can't buy.

“As part of learning the trade, I get to move around different departments and my combined skillset has grown enormously. I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity and while my friends are studying at university and not knowing what will come next when they graduate, I’m out in the world working towards securing long-term employment.”

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Growing up in Cambuslang, the former Trinity High School pupil never imagined that she would end up working in what was once considered a traditionally male industry.

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She said: “There are so many opportunities for females now, especially in our workplace, and I’ve never once felt out of place.

“There are more and more women coming into shipbuilding through apprenticeships and it is good to see we are finally shattering the glass ceiling.

“The programmes are very fair, and we have an equal number of males and females. We all get on very well.

“There is no reason why females should be held back in the workplace and our company promote equal opportunities, which is why I was so keen to take up a modern apprenticeship here."

Hazel is sharing her experience to mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which runs until March 13.

She added: “I love my career and see a bright future ahead. Taking on an apprenticeship is the best thing I’ve ever done.

"If you are keen to learn and willing to work hard, then an apprenticeship is the right way to go. It’s exciting to know I’m helping deliver crucial defence assets to the UK Royal Navy."

BAE Systems intends to hire more than 1400 apprentices this year in more than 50 different roles.