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A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Photo by Aaron Pritchett
Welders Ready for Enterprise Spotlight Two welders at Newport News Shipbuilding are preparing to display their skills at the Aug. 27 keel laying ceremony for Enterprise (CVN 80) – and they are proud to share the spotlight.
Both welders have been given writing samples. King will weld the initials of gymnast Biles, whose handwriting “is all waves,” King said.
Ephony King (X18) and Jonathan Rishor (X18) have been selected to weld the initials of the ship’s two sponsors, Olympians Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles, onto steel plates that will be affixed to the Ford-class aircraft carrier.
Rishor will handle Ledecky’s initials. The standout swimmer’s writing includes an intricate G – her middle name is Genevieve – that will require practice, said Rishor.
Any job requires preparation and practice, but that’s especially true when you’re in front of hundreds of people and a livestream audience. King and Rishor say they’ll be ready. “We’re going to get it right before we get there,” said King, a fiveyear NNS employee and recent graduate of The Apprentice School. “It’s going to turn out great. I know it will,” added Rishor, who has worked at NNS for more than five years.
In a nod to history, the two steel plates that will display the sponsors’ initials come from the former Enterprise (CVN 65), the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier now inactive and moored at NNS. Rishor served in the Navy and recalled a memorable moment involving CVN 65. In 2012, as CVN 65 headed home on its final deployment, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) relieved the ship. Rishor worked on the Ike’s flight deck, and as the two giants passed in the Atlantic Ocean, “I had the best seat in the house.” CONTINUED ON PG 2
Keel Laying Ceremony is Saturday Newport News Shipbuilding will host a ceremonial keel laying for Enterprise (CVN 80) at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27. NNS will broadcast the ceremony live at HII.com/cvn80 and on the HII and Jennifer Boykin Facebook pages.
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Shipbuilders Complete First of 10 New Enterprise Superlifts Shipbuilders recently completed the first of 10 new superlifts for Enterprise (CVN 80). The 825-metric ton unit – roughly the weight of 56 Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornets – included weapons magazines and lower stage weapons elevators. In the past, this superlift would have been broken up into 17 separate lifts into the dry dock, according to Payton Pasipanki, a process improvement analyst who is working on loan to the CVN 80 program in the capacity of a construction supervisor. “Going from 17 lifts to doing it in one is a big feat in itself,” he said. “There were some lessons learned, but overall it went very well. The growing pains were very minimal.” There are a number of benefits to combining these lifts into one. It helps reduce the amount of time Newport News Shipbuilding’s 1,050-metric ton gantry crane – also known as “Big Blue” – is tied up.
This recent superlift for Enterprise (CVN 80) combined what would have been 17 seperate lifts into the dry dock. Photo by Aaron Pritchett
The larger lift also allows shipbuilders to complete more outfitting before the unit was placed in the dry dock. Watch time-lapse video of the lift on MyNNS or on the NNS to Go app. The next of these new superlifts for Enterprise is scheduled to take place in the fall.
Foundry Completes First Casting for Final Block V Virginia-Class Submarine Shipbuilders in Newport News Shipbuilding’s Foundry recently completed the first casting for the yet-to-be-named SSN 811 – the final boat of Virginia-Class Submarine Program’s Block V. VCS Program Director Bob Schatzel recognized the Foundry team for the milestone 275-pound pour of the CuNi main ballast tank retainer. SSN 811 will be the 38th Virginia-class submarine. Pictured from left are welder Jeremy Morrison, inspector Stephanie West, chipper specialist Telly Ralph, Bob Schatzel and molder specialist Mark Bixby.
Welders Ready for Enterprise Spotlight CONTINUED FROM PG 1
King and Rishor were selected for the keel laying ceremony based on their consistent, quality performance. Foreman Richard Watson said he tapped Rishor because he “is dependable, takes pride in his work and goes above and beyond to produce a first-time quality product.”
Foreman John Harrell said picking King was an easy choice. “The first person I thought of was Ms. King,” he said. “Every day she comes in, she welds works of art.” King plans to make the most of the moment. “It’s not every day you get recognized for your talent,” she said.
On being selected, Rishor said, “I feel honored, for sure.”
Shipbuilder Proud of Enterprise Connections Like many Newport News Shipbuilding employees, Chris Bennett – a shift refueling engineer – shares a special connection to Enterprise (CVN 65). As NNS prepares for the ceremonial keel laying for the next Enterprise (CVN 80), Bennett shared his story with the Communications Division. Watch the video on MyNNS or on the NNS to Go app.
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AROUND THE YARD PEER Program Cohort 14 Graduates Newport News Shipbuilding’s Professional Enhancement and Enrichment Rotation (PEER) Program held a graduation ceremony for shipbuilders in Cohort 14 in July. PEER is a two-year rotation program for salaried, individual contributors. The cohort began its PEER journey Jan. 2, 2020, with each participant committed to taking ownership of their professional development and personal fulfillment. The participants learned about the attributes of the PEER ICARE (Innovative, Collaborative, Adaptive, Results Driven and Engaged) brand during their orientation workshop. Just three months into their PEER experience, members of the cohort – and the rest of the world – felt the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the significant challenges, members of Cohort 14 were resolute to fulfilling their commitments. Participants and host managers implemented all five attributes of the ICARE brand to ensure every PEER experience was meaningful and rewarding. Cohort 14 participants navigated each of their rotations with determination to be effective contributors and successful participants. “We began this journey in an incredible, astonishing and exaggerated way. Now let us lead the way forward,” said Debra Brand, a PEER Cohort 14 graduate, as she closed the ceremony. Other graduates summarized their experiences with the following statements: •
team member in four new departments.” •
“I learned to become comfortable working outside of my comfort zone.”
•
“I learned the skills needed to quickly adapt to the inevitable changes we all face.”
•
“I developed the skills and networks needed to move into the next stage of my career.”
The 18 graduates in Cohort 14 – who ranged in age from 25 to 61 – earned four job family promotions, two leadership promotions and 11 transfers into new positions. January 2023 will mark the 10-year anniversary of the PEER program with Cohort 20. Visit the PEER website to learn more about the program and register for an upcoming lunch and learn or open house event. Contact Gary Figg via email for more information about joining the PEER program.
“I gained the skills needed to become an effective
WiSE Woman Awardees Announced The Women in Shipbuilding Enterprise (WiSE) employee resource group presented “WiSE Woman” awards to the following employees during the second and third quarters of 2022: •
Leasa Anderson (N358) was recognized for commendable and sustained performance in April.
•
Darlene Barber (O14) was recognized for commendable and sustained performance in May.
•
Georgina Whitehead (O14) was recognized for outstanding leadership in June.
•
Regina Thomas (E68) was recognized
for commendable and sustained performance in July. •
Jacqueline Phillips (E37) was recognized for commendable and sustained performance in August.
•
Tamika Armstead (O43) is being recognized in September for commendable and sustained performance.
WiSE presents this award each month, and award winners are published in Currents on a quarterly basis. For more information about the program, visit the WiSE Woman website on MyNNS or contact Lindsey Tate (E68). Submit a nomination by completing a WiSE Woman nomination form.
NNS and Partners Fund Community Grant Program To address gaps in services for Hampton Roads communities, HII has partnered with two other Newport News-based corporations – Ferguson and BayPort Credit Union – to fund a $500,000, three-year transformation grant, called Accelerating Change Together (ACT). The inaugural year’s focus will be on education and workforce development. The ACT Grant is an extension of the three companies’ existing charitable giving and social impact efforts. The deadline for applications is Oct. 31. For additional information on the grant and eligibility requirements, visit actgrant.org.
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DATEBOOK AUGUST 24
Being a dad is tough. Join us for ManPower: Dad Health to learn how to tackle fatherhood’s biggest challenges, including stress, lack of time for self-care, emotional expression and communication with your family. The live session is at noon and recorded for viewing later. Register at myquadmed.com/BeWell.
AUGUST 25
Spear and Gear Toastmasters welcomes all shipbuilders to an in-person meeting at 5 p.m. at The Apprentice School (Room 308). Toastmasters is a safe and welcoming environment for those seeking to enhance their communication and leadership skills. If interested in attending in person or by dial in, contact Tammy Smith (N358), Paul Gee Jr. (O52), Brandon Jones (E63), Jamar Skyles (E03) at NNS or Taylor Chamberlain (E91) at KSO.
AUGUST 26
The African American Shipbuilders Association’s (AASA) next membership event will be held from 12 until 12:30 p.m. outside of MOF/SMOF (Mid-Yard). In an effort to thank the tradespersons building these phenomenal warships, ERG members will hand out free freeze pops. While you are visiting with us, please join our cause and consider signing up as a member. Registration is not required. Email AASACommunityNews@hii-nns.com for more information.
AUGUST 28
Join Shipbuilders Together Realizing Inclusion, Diversity and Equality (STRIDE) for a trip to the Williamsburg Winery. Guests will enjoy an educational tour and wine tasting while networking with other shipbuilders. Cost is $25 per person ($50 value). The tour will begin at 12 p.m. All participants must be 21 or older. Register on MyNNS before Aug. 19. Contact Jacob Warner via email for more information. The rain date is Sept. 11.
ENGAGEMENT SURVEY LEARNING SESSIONS FOR LEADERS
In preparation for the annual Gallup engagement survey administration period (Sept. 21-Oct. 7), the O18 ED&I Office is offering virtual learning sessions for leaders to provide resources and a live demonstration on how to access and use engagement results with teams. First-shift sessions will be held Aug. 24, Sept. 21 and Oct. 5 at 12 p.m. Second-shift sessions will be held Aug. 24, Sept. 21 and Oct. 5 at 4:30 p.m. Third-shift sessions will be held Aug. 23, Sept. 20 and Oct. 4 at 5:30 a.m. Register on MyNNS.
CLASSROOM PMI PREP COURSE
Are you interested in getting your project management professional (PMP) certification through the Project Management Institute in 2022? Classes are forming for the fall. Classroom instruction through Reed Integrations returns to NetCenter beginning Sept. 13 on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Online instruction will continue. For more information, visit the PMP Training and Ed Assist section on the PMSA website or contact PMSA prep course lead Debra Brand via email. To get started, check the Do I Qualify button.
AUGUST 30
The L.E.A.R.N. Program will host a lunch presentation with Matt Mulherin Jr., vice president of Contracts, from 12 to 12:30 p.m. via WebEx. The event topic is “History of NNS Through My Eyes,” and it is open to all employees by reservation only. Sign up on the L.E.A.R.N. website on MyNNS. For questions, contact Christina Hayden (K51) or email LEARN@hii-nns.com. No charge is provided.
AUGUST 31
The Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) will hold its general meeting from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on WebEx. Kevin Viera will host the meeting. This meeting will go over upcoming and current events and is a great opportunity for members/guests with questions about events. Register on MyNNS.
SEPTEMBER 12-16
Newport News Shipbuilding is observing Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) Week Sept. 12-16 with a slate of activities. The week is meant to promote awareness and education to keep the values of inclusion, diversity and engagement fresh in the minds of shipbuilders. Be on the lookout for a full list of events in the upcoming weeks.
SEPTEMBER 29
Newport News Shipbuilding is a sponsor of the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank’s “Tastefully Yours” food-tasting event from 6 until 9:30 p.m. at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. Tickets are $60 in advance or $70 on the day of the event. To purchase tickets, visit hrfoodbank.org or call 757-596-7188.
NOTICE: North Yard Parking and Roadway Impacts for Ceremonial Keel Laying Newport News Shipbuilding will hold a ceremonial keel laying for Enterprise (CVN 80) on Saturday, Aug. 27. The event will be held in the North Yard and require advanced setup of bleachers, tents, screens, etc. As a result, there will be parking and road closures in the North Yard Aug. 23-29. Closures will impact the Vehicle Inspection Station (VIS), the oval Zone B parking lot and motorcycle parking across from the Vehicle Inspection Station (VIS), and the roadway around the event site at the head of Dry Dock 12. See the Distribution A memo for more detailed information.
APPRENTICE SCHOOL FOOTBALL APPAREL
The Apprentice School Football Team Shop is open online at https://bsnteamsports.com until Sept. 1. The access code is ASFB6. Place your order now to show your Apprentice School Builder pride.
SEEKING SHIPBUILDERS Job Title Req Number Dept. Accountant 3 24544 N365 Certified Health Physicist 4 19184 E85 Certified Industrial Hygienist 4 20252 O265 Corporate Income Provisioning 19890 N365 Tax Manager 3 Crane/Rigging Inspector 17979 O48 Engineer Structural 2 16691, 18953 E46, E92 Engineer Structural 2 25008 E12 Engineer Systems Test 2 22115 E25 Financial Analyst 3 22138 N364 Financial Analyst 4 22132 N364 Fitters 22406, 22424, X11 22426, 22425 HII Mechanical Nuclear 24925, 24926, N930 Quality Inspector 3 24927 Nuclear Propulsion Engineer 18312 E70 Production Planner & 25088, 18704 X24, X35 Scheduler 2 & 3 RCT Instructor 18585 E85 Staff Physician 17067 O28 Welders 22525, 22524, X18 22484, 22464
Visit www.buildyourcareer.com to search for the latest NNS job openings.
Employee Referral Cash Bonus Not Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible
Remote Work Considered Yes Yes No Yes
Not Eligible Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible Eligible
No Yes No No No No No
Not Eligible
No
Not Eligible Not Eligible
No No
Not Eligible Not Eligible Eligible
No No No
All positions are located in Newport News unless otherwise noted.
Employees are encouraged to use MyHR or the "Current HII Employees Job Search" button at www.buildyourcareer.com to apply. Visit www.huntingtoningalls.com/careers/refer-a-friend to learn more about the cash bonus awards for referrals to select positions.