Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson at RAF Cosford for International Women's Day

He was joined at the site's Defence College of Technical Training by newly-appointed Air Marshal Sue Gray to mark National Apprenticeship Week and International Women's Day.

They met apprentices from a range of disciplines including aircraft engineering, cyberspace communications, survival equipment, photography, and the emergency services.

The South Staffordshire MP said: "From those completing their apprenticeships at the start of their careers, to the first female three-star officer, I am delighted to celebrate both National Apprenticeship Week and International Women's Day with the young men and women who will mark the future success of the armed forces.

"I hope that the young apprentices we met today are inspired by Air Marshal Sue Gray's historic achievement to reach for the top. With all roles across the British military now opened to women, there are no limits to those looking to succeed in Defence."

"To have her in one of these top jobs, it's sending a message. It's bringing women into the armed forces and helps them know that their dreams can be realised.

Mr Williamson described former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as the most inspiring woman to him.

He said: "I know it's a bit cliche as a politician, but she changed so much in this country. You can't help but think, what an amazing woman.

In October last year all combat roles were opened up to women.

Mr Williamson added: "I'm proud of that. I have two daughters, and I want to think that they could go for any role.

"It is vital to recognise the skills we have in our armed forces and we should celebrate the next generation.

"RAF Cosford is a real hub for what the RAF does. It does so much for all three services, giving people the learning and experience they need.

"Without places like RAF Cosford we wouldn't have the ability to arm the military. It plays a huge role in keeping Britain safe.

"The other part of it is that it brings a lot in the way of prosperity and jobs to Shropshire, South Staffordshire and the West Midlands. It brings a lot of wealth to the area."

Air Marshal Gray, who has risen through the ranks in a career that has taken her to Gulf War I and II as well as working in Iraq, hoped her new role would inspire young women and apprentices to reach for the top.

She said: "These are the next generation, so we need to encourage to continue their careers.

She added: "I'm excited to start the new role. I will working with all three armed forced to try and keep them safe and out of trouble."

On her inspiration to get to the top, she didn't cite a female idol.

She said: "It was more my father. I have a sister and he just treated us equally. If he felt something needed doing, he would get us to do it. My mother and I ended up being the ones fixing electrical things in the house."

Among the young apprentices was 18-year-old Britney Leather, who has been learning about photography in the armed forces, which involves covert skills to gain intelligence on the enemy.

She said: "I did photography at college for a year, but I didn't want to just be sat in a classroom. This is the best place to do it. I hope to cover royal visits in the future and VIP events. My main ambition is to fly. But it's good to have this transferable skill as well.

"Joining the armed forces isn't what people typically thing girls should do, but they should definitely consider it. It's not just for men."