She joined BAE from school with 10 GCSEs, turning her back on the University path because she identified an opportunity to earn and learn to degree level and beyond in a job with plenty of opportunities and prospects for international travel.

She said: "This is a great career for both boys and girls and I'm always trying to persuade more females to think about working in engineering and manufacturing. One of the directors here started out as a fitter, so there's no reason to stop me or any of the other apprentices being a director one day.

"I'm really enjoying working with a team and getting involved in lots of aspects of building a submarine. I've already gained an NVQ Level 2 and will move from NVQ Level 3 through to HNC and degree over the coming years. The best bit is that I'll be paid while I train and will be in a position to buy a house in a few years' time."

After breaking her arm recently, Nicola has been learning new skills in materials planning away from the shop floor. She says: "Within a multi-national company like BAE there are just so many career opportunities both in the office and out in the factory itself."