CAMBRIDGE, MA. December 02, 2009. A not for profit corporation founded in 1932 by MIT Professor Dr. Charles Stark Draper, was honored today with an Above and Beyond Award. The lab employs more than 850 engineers and scientists. Originally known as the Instrument Lab, the laboratory was renamed in 1970 and became an independent institution three years later. Draper Lab is a major employer of military personnel and as such has established human resource programs specifically geared to work within the military area. This program truly exceeds the requirements of the law. Today's presentation to CEO James Shields was generated by a Patriotic Employer Award nomination from Lance Corporal (LCpl) Steve Conroy, USMC Reserve. LCpl Conroy stated: "Draper supported me 110% before I left for a deployment, while I was deployed, and upon my return even though I had only been working there for three months prior to my deployment!" Accepting the Award was CEO Jim Shields, LCpl Conroy and Staff Sergeant (SSG) Tom Robinson of the Army Reserve and several members of the Draper workforce.   

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory guides research into space, under water, and across continents. Originally founded as a teaching lab, the not-for-profit corporation develops guidance, navigation, and control technologies for aircraft, submarines, missiles, and spacecraft. It works with NASA, the US Department of Defense, and commercial businesses to develop technologies and fabricate prototypes. it also solves health care problems with its work in biomedical engineering.   

The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the USERRA law of 1994 and resolving conflicts through mediation. The MA Committee has more than 35 volunteers dedicated to helping every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR were Eastern Area Chair John Pelose, Awards Director, Roger Fortin and Program Support Specialist David St. Germain.   

   

Left to Right: SSG Tom Robinson, John Pelose, Jim Shields (CEO) and LCpl Steve Conroy           
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 If you would like nominate your Employer for an award, call the MA Committee for ESGR a508-233-7249 or go to www.esgr.mil.