A defence giant has marked a major milestone with a rare look behind the scenes.
AWE, in Aldermaston, celebrated its 75th anniversary with a public drop-in event at The Link community centre, in Tadley, on Saturday, June 28, offering visitors a glimpse into its long history and ongoing contributions to national defence.
The event featured talks, historical exhibits, and AWE’s robodog, a four-legged robot.
Ian Rogers, chief nuclear officer and executive director assurance at AWE, said: “At the end of last year we held several public drop-in sessions at locations within the surrounding area.
AWE’s ‘robodog’ at the Tadley event. (Image: AWE) “People were very interested to learn about what we do and our plans for the future.
“There was also a lot of interest in career opportunities at AWE.
“From the feedback we received it was clear that people wanted to see more of us, which is why we came back to Tadley.”
Visitors explored rarely seen photographs from AWE’s archives, learned about the Orion laser – one of the world’s most powerful – and spoke with members of the organisation’s workforce.
Talks on AWE’s history were given by Garry George, a chartered engineer who has worked at AWE for 47 years.
The Tadley and District History Society also took part, presenting a photographic display of Tadley in the 1950s.
IBM 7030 STRETCH computer at Aldermaston, taken in 1965. (Image: AWE) Carol Stevens, chair of the society, said: “The society was pleased to have been offered the opportunity to participate in the day’s very interesting event.
“AWE has been, and will continue to be, a major contributor to the growth and history of Tadley; from the early rural hamlet in the south to the town we see today.
“Being able to illustrate this progress through our displays was welcomed.”
Mark Hedges, AWE’s executive director, estates and liabilities, reflected on the organisation’s legacy and future.
Mr Hedges said: “As someone who lives locally and joined AWE as an apprentice in 1985, I can vouch for our special place in our local community.
“While the world changes and technology moves on, I know there is one thing at AWE that remains a constant, and that is the pride our people have in working here and delivering our mission to play our part in keeping our nation safe.
“I’m very proud of my role now in making sure our sites are fit for the next 75 years.”
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