25 Oct 2005
Hes cute, hes cuddly and hes also very good at his job meet Mattie, BAE Systems four-legged recruit, complete with his very own security pass, kennel and runaround!
Mattie works for machinist Derrick Eyre, who is based in the machine shop at BAE Systems Brough site in East Yorkshire. Derrick has been working for BAE Systems since 1981, when he was taken on as an apprentice. He lost his sight in a car accident in 1983 but, after an eight-month spell recovering, he began working as a machinist.
Derrick got Mattie his first guide dog - in November last year and following an intensive five-week training plan, he and Mattie started back at work. One year on and Mattie and Derrick have not only settled into their roles but are also award winners, recently being recognised at the BAE Systems Brough Chairmans Awards dinner.
Tony Arksey, Site and Operations Director, remarked on the award: The people (and Dogs) our greatest strength award was commissioned specifically for this event as we felt that it was appropriate to recognise some very special people, both across our site and externally, who have worked together to make the physical and infrastructure changes required to provide a safe environment for Mattie. He continued: It is also about Derrick, who has spent hours in training and preparation to ensure all is right for Mattie, our four-legged recruit.
Integrating Mattie onto the BAE Systems site at Brough wasnt as straightforward as might be imagined. As Derrick works nights, he originally envisaged Mattie in a bed near his work station. However, locally-based guide dog instructor Rachel Hatfield pointed out the potential danger of stray scrap metal for Mattie, so the Company organised a kennel which has a sleeping area and room for Mattie to run around.
Mattie also has his very own security pass to comply with Ministry of Defence and fire evacuation regulations; the badge consists of Matties photograph, name and unique reference number, which in this case is K-9.
As well as Mattie, Derrick uses other tools at work to make his life easier. Until recently, he was using a voice synthesiser to help him read manuals, but thanks to the Government Access to Work programme, he now has software installed onto his computer that allows him access to the company e-mail system.
Derrick explained: Id worked as a conventional machinist up until 1993, but getting the voice synthesiser meant I could train to work the computer numerically-controlled lathe machinery. Id read about Job Applications for Windows software and asked if I could get this installed. It gives me access to 80% of the companys computer system, which means I can be a lot more independent as I can access the e-mail system and the intranet for company communications.
Ive had nothing but encouragement from the bosses here. Initially I was a bit worried about all the time off needed to complete the training, but I got a very positive response. No-one has said no to anything and I would like to thank all the managers and all my colleagues for their continued support.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. The Company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems. BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The Company employs over 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately 14.8 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.
For further information, please contact:
Ashleigh McClure, BAE SYSTEMS
Tel: +44 (0) 1772 856311 Fax: +44 (0) 1772 856524
ashleigh.mcclure@baesystems.com
