A young apprentice has spoken of how changing his trade allowed him to land his "dream job".

Robbie Beggs, 21, is part of BAE Systems' early careers programme which aims to help give young people a pathway into work.

Two years ago, Robbie, from Johnstone, applied to be a painter and decorator but soon realised his passion didn't lie with a brush, and that was when he opted to move into the steelwork industry.

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The Gazette: Robbie Beggs Robbie Beggs (Image: Supplied)

Now, in his second year of his apprenticeship as an apprentice shipwright, which consists of steelwork, welding and crane operation, he has said that he has found a job he loves.

He said: "I transferred into the steelwork side of things after not enjoying being a painter.

"I found out about the role through career events I had been to through school.

"The job is brilliant and it is a cliche but no two days are ever the same.

"Honestly, in terms of a dream job within the industry, I have got it as a shipwright.

"I didn't think it would be my dream job but after learning more about what it entails, it really appealed to me.

"Later down the line if I want to move further up the ladder or sideways into the office side of things, BAE Systems are very supportive in allowing me to do that."

Robbie said that the British multinational arms, security and aerospace company have allowed doors to be open that he didn't think was possible.

BAE Systems are aiming to help young people to succeed in their industry as they look to help address the "nationwide skills shortages".

The Gazette: Robbie Beggs Robbie Beggs (Image: Supplied)

In the last five years, they have had more than doubled the number of apprenticeships and expect to welcome more than 2700 trainees to apprentice and graduate programmes in 2024 – its largest-ever intake.

And with Robbie currently making his way through the programme, he has made history with his family.

He said: "I am the first to do a trade in the family.

"There has been no history at all of shipbuilding in my family, I just looked at the prospects it had.

"If I am being truly honest, seeing the sparks (from the tools) flying or using a burning torch is just cool.

"It looks amazing and when you get into it there is a lot of brain work that you don't think.

"The amount of support BAE Systems have given me is amazing and they are a very supportive company and I have no complaints whatsoever."