Textron Defense Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. company, announced that it has been named one of the top 10 “Best Companies for Women to Work” by IEEE Women in Engineering in the publication’s Winter 2008/2009 issue.
“This honor is a testament to the value we place on creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workplace,” explains senior vice president and general manager Mark Catizone. “Textron Defense Systems is able to deliver its customers products that are more innovative and timely because of the lively exchange of ideas and teamwork that are so much a part of our culture.”
The company begins to build relationships with potential employees through internship and co-op programs. Some of the company’s young engineers participate in the two-year engineering development program, during which they learn about various disciplines through hands-on, six-month rotations. Employees also have access to Textron University, the company’s in-house learning management resource, as well as tuition assistance.
“We encourage Textron Defense Systems employees to feel that they are in the driver’s seat when it comes to their careers,” says Catizone. “We want them to develop strong coaching relationships with each other, and they are empowered to develop individualized career goals and desired paths through our performance management process. These critical activities foster the talent we have here.”
This commitment is shared by parent company, Textron Systems, where the company’s operating units have dedicated diversity councils focused on the spectrum of activities that build and maintain an inclusive workplace. Elements of the Textron Systems vision include recruitment, employee retention through engagement, and opportunities for ongoing development.
“What sets Textron Systems and its operating units apart is that everyone understands that a diverse, inclusive environment isn’t just a good thing to have, it’s an absolute business imperative,” explains director of diversity Susan Lee. “Creativity and engagement are fueled that way, and we all do our jobs better in that kind of workplace. When we do our jobs well at Textron Systems, our products and services keep America’s warfighters safe. There is no greater business imperative than that.”
About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for over 50 years. Known for its precision smart weapons, intelligent battlefield systems, surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, aircraft control components, piston engines, armored vehicles and unmanned aircraft systems, Textron Systems includes AAI, HR Textron, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch Tactical Operations, Overwatch Geospatial Systems, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc.
About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a $14.2 billion multi-industry company operating in 28 countries with approximately 42,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, defense and intelligence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation.