SEA, the UK defence and security electronics system specialist, has picked up two awards at the North Devon Manufacturers Association (NDMA) Annual Awards. At the function on Thursday 16th May, SEA’s team was recognised with the Business Engagement in STEM Award, while its anti-submarine warfare solution KraitArray was named Product of the Year.
SEA was nominated for the Business Engagement in STEM Award for its continued work to inspire and motivate young people to pursue a career in engineering. SEA currently has 11 STEM ambassadors and works with 11 schools, as well as Careers South West to improve STEM opportunities. Additionally, SEA is committed to employing two apprentices per year and has a structured and interactive work experience programme.
The KraitArray Ultra-Thin Towed Array, SEA’s cutting edge underwater acoustic sensor, was awarded Product of the Year for developments that took place in 2018. The state of the art KraitArray capability was miniaturised by 75% while retaining and even improving the sensor capability. The Ultra-Thin Array allows all types of maritime vessels to utilise the capability, from wave powered unmanned vessels to naval frigates. The development of the product has secured SEA’s reputation as a supplier of cutting-edge technology within the maritime sector.
Commenting on the Business Engagement in STEM Award, Debbie Sherris, HR Officer & Young Workers’ Programme Co-ordinator, SEA, said: “This award recognises our commitment to our STEM programme that is dedicated to inspiring and motivating young people in engineering. Our STEM ambassadors are involved in countless initiatives in North Devon that enrich the STEM education of young people in the area. I’m immensely proud of everyone involved in our STEM activities and I thank them for their tireless efforts.”
Commenting on the Product of the Year Award, Paul McCarthy, Integrated Electronic System Director, SEA, said: “Winning Product of the Year is testament to the hard work of our Integrated Electronic Systems team. The KraitArray is a truly cutting-edge product that is unrivalled by its competitors and has provided an innovative anti-submarine warfare solution. The product development has opened several new opportunities for SEA worldwide, and we’re proud that it has been recognised with this award”.
Discussing SEA’s success at the NDMA Awards, Steve Hill, Managing Director, SEA, said: “To come away with two awards on the night is a fantastic achievement from everybody at the Barnstaple office. The two awards demonstrate two fantastic sides of SEA: the Product of the Year Award shows that our innovation can have tangible benefits for the customers and industries we serve, while Business Engagement in STEM Award displays our commitment to the community and local areas that we operate in.”
