From the moment I joined BAE Systems, I knew I had found somewhere that would challenge me, champion me and allow me to grow. What started as an opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects quickly became a long term career where I’ve been encouraged to stretch my strengths, develop specialist expertise and play an active role in protecting global cyber security.
My transition into cyber security was a defining moment. Moving from software development into assurance required a new level of confidence, technical understanding and resilience and I never had to navigate that shift alone. My leaders recognised my potential, invested time into mentoring me and ensured I had access to the training, frameworks and real world experience needed to thrive in a new discipline. Their support helped me step into more strategic, analytical responsibilities and build the capability I bring to the team today.
One of the projects I’m most proud of is contributing to the Cyber Security Assurance Programme for Australia. Working across continents and time zones demanded clarity, collaboration and trust. I led the effort to understand and map the assurance frameworks used by our colleagues in Australia to those we use in the UK - a critical piece of work that created shared structure, strengthened alignment and ensured both teams could measure progress consistently. It highlighted what we can achieve when we collaborate globally to pioneer new approaches and protect what matters most.
Beyond the technical work, the sense of community has played a huge role in my development. I’m an active member of Women in Cyber Security and Women in STEM, and I regularly support outreach initiatives that encourage more young women into the field. These communities create spaces where people feel seen, supported and able to grow authentically - something that has shaped both my confidence and my network.
Stepping into cyber security at BAE Systems allowed me to grow with confidence, shape meaningful work and contribute to protecting people across the world. The support and trust I’ve received have been instrumental in helping me thrive.MarriaCyber Security Assurance Specialist, Maritime & Land, UK
Today, what keeps me here is simple: challenging work, continuous learning and a culture that believes in its people. Being part of a global organisation means collaborating across perspectives, building connections that inspire growth and contributing to a mission that genuinely makes a difference.
This is my BAE Systems story, find yours by joining today.
Our colleagues share their personal stories on what drives them and why they chose BAE Systems.