2009: a space odyssey.

One small step for man, one giant lack of a recession for BEI Precision Systems & Space Co. Inc.

The Maumelle company told your Whispers staff that it has had a phenomenal year and is still adding jobs.

BEI has hired 46 new employees since July 2008 and still has six spots to fill. The company said the positions range from electronic assemblers and technicians to electrical engineers to accounting and quality positions.

The growth has forced the firm to lease some space next door from CDI Contractors LLC--about 12,000 SF, in fact. The space will be used for office and production, BEI said.