An Unlikely Source
Former student Tom Taylor talks to Kathrin Betz about a prize that he received from BAE Systems and the reasons why he decided to donate it to us
What did you receive the prize money for?
I was the most improved student over the course of my Systems Engineering degree at Loughborough University, in terms of grades.
Who did you receive it from?
The money and certificate came along with the confirmation of my degree result, a few weeks after my exams. The cheque was from a BAE Systems account and signed by one of their staff members.
Why did you donate it to CAAT?
I’ve been a vocal minority against BAE Systems’ involvement in my course during my time there, and felt that taking money from the company was hypocritical and wrong. It’s not that they would have gained anything from it, but more that it condones their actions.
I’ve also been a supporter of CAAT and its work, often using the website for reference when I needed evidence to back up my arguments. Giving the money to CAAT was a great way of highlighting the issue and made me chuckle a bit too!
In what way did BAE get involved in your degree course?
BAE Systems dominated the steering committee for my course, had a large research and development base on campus, and a permanent liaison to the 90 per cent of my course that it sponsored. Certain elements of the course were tailored to BAE’s requirements.
Why do you think that is a problem?
I believe that university should remain distinct from industry, and that it should be using its neutrality to promote ideals about the world in which we wish to live – researching clean energy, improvements in healthcare and communications for all.
See also Tom’s blog at www.tomtaylor.co.uk/blog/
Goodbye Anna
Anna Jones, who has been CAAT's Actions & Events Coordinator for almost three years, is leaving CAAT to campaign with Greenpeace on climate change.
Anna says: ‘I've had a brilliant three years at CAAT, and have been honoured to be part of such amazing achievements in that time. I'm really sad to be leaving, particularly at such an exciting time, but will be staying in touch and doing my best to take part in future campaigning. CAAT is a fantastic organisation to be part of and I will always have huge respect for its radicalism, dynamism and creativity.
It's been amazing to be part of an organisation that can take on BAE and the Government despite being a fraction of their size! Thanks to everyone who's been part of CAAT's actions, events and campaigns whilst I've been here, making them all possible. I've enjoyed meeting you all and working with you, and I'll really miss you all a lot!’
We’d like to wish Anna all the best and send her off with a massive thank you for all her fantastic work.
Office Coordinator
The smooth and efficient operation of CAAT’s office and the provision of campaign materials to CAAT's supporters is key to achieving CAAT’s aims. The Office Coordinator will ensure that this happens, having an overview of the office and all relevant systems, and ensuring that they are integrated into CAAT's campaign strategy. Much of the work will be undertaken alongside the many volunteers who are crucial to CAAT’s work. The post is part-time (3 days per week). Salary: £25,584 pro rata. Closing date: Wednesday 19th December. More information can be found online, or send an A4 70p SAE to the CAAT office.
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