What was an amazing place to work, has headed steeply downhill, with no end in sight.
Pros
Dedicated, talented staff. Interesting technologies. Draper has all the makings of an amazing place to work, and a history of incredible achievement. It was a true not-for-profit and thrived as such. Draper’s success in engineering and technology development is top notch.
Cons
Leadership, leadership, leadership. A “code of ethics” and diversity goals which don’t apply to the old boys‘ club at the top of the management chain. Draper innovation culture is not surviving the consistent, unfair treatment of employees. Diversity and fair wages are policies for appearance only. In my early years here, I saw a highly functional not-for-profit. However, in the last 4 years Draper has sold its soul and will do anything for revenue. It compensates upper management handsomely, at the cost of fair treatment of the army of brilliant engineers who make all of the magic happen. Abusive, discriminatory behavior is still rewarded, so long as revenue is strong. I am equally sad and relieved to have left the company. I hope they manage to get back on track for the sake of the people who continue to give it their best.