2 l 13 l 2017
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Repurposed Facility Brings More Work Indoors Since November, Material Handling Supervisor Eden Jones (O53) and her team of 14 shipbuilders have moved more than 4.1 million pounds of steel indoors, to a new home in the repurposed Building 621. Facilities Engineer Eddie Zydron (O41) and Christa Riley (O41) led the construction and renovation project to ensure the warehouse met production needs.
“It was great that I was able to be involved in the decision making process,” he said. “I get so excited when my daughter asks me about what I do at the shipyard – I’m grateful to do my part in helping build these world-class ships.”
Material Planning Control Manager Larry Trevathan (O53) said the new facility and equipment bring greater efficiencies and improve morale. “It all boils down to engagement,” he said. “Now, with quite a bit of work inside, it makes shipbuilder’s lives at work better. It also gives our shipbuilders better equipment to perform multi-cut requests from customers and allows for better interchangeability of resources.”
“With the opening of this facility, we are able to move small steel shapes and pipe from outside storage locations throughout the shipyard to one indoor location,” said Rob Hogan, vice president of Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management. “It improves the working conditions for our employees, eliminates or reduces many safety hazards, and improves the efficiency of our material operations.”
Material Support Specialist Harweda Knight Jr. (O53) was instrumental in the approach and setup of equipment, including a new steel-cutting saw that replaces a 53-year-old saw. He said he felt his opinion mattered throughout the process.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Feb. 9 to mark the occasion.
NNS President Matt Mulherin, Vice President of Integrated Planning and Production Control Brian Fields, and Vice President of Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management Rob Hogan joined shipbuilders from the “Pink Team” in a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the re-opening of Bldg 621 on Feb. 9. Photo by Matt Hildreth
VCS Program Hosts Navy Crew for “Coaching Moments” On Feb. 8, the Virginia-Class Submarine Program hosted Navy crew members from Indiana (SSN 789) and Delaware (SSN 791) for its first joint Leadercast Coaching Moments event. Construction Supervisor Michael Brown (X82), a Sub Force Navy retiree, was among more than 50 attendees. “My service is to the submarine sailors that will sail on these ships,” he said. “Nothing else is more important to me than my fellow submarine sailors, so I’m thankful they were able to join.” CONTINUED ON PG 2