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A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Tools for Success Newport News Shipbuilding employees donated more than 25,000 school supplies for local students during the annual School Tools Drive in August. Shipbuilders had the option to give online or via on-site collection containers during the two-week drive. On Sept. 17, NNS employees volunteering as part of United Way of the Virginia Peninsula’s annual Day of Caring, helped package donations for distribution. “Our shipbuilders take great interest in causes that exist for the purpose of making our communities a better place,” said Judy Fundak (K18). “This year, 25,476 individual school supplies were collected by our shipbuilders during the annual school supply drive supporting the success of children in Hampton, Newport News, York/Poquoson, Boys & Girls Clubs and surrounding communities on the Peninsula. Thank you shipbuilders for a job well done.” For additonal volunteer opportunities, shipbuilders can visit the NNS Gives portal at nns.YourCause.com.
Photo by Ashley Cowan
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HII Scholarship Fund Announces 2021-2022 Awards The HII Scholarship Fund, now in its sixth year, has awarded 58 new scholarships for dependent children of Newport News Shipbuilding employees for the 2021-2022 school year. Additionally, the fund renewed 41 previously active scholarships. To date, the fund has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to children of NNS employees. The HII Scholarship Fund was formed to provide financial assistance to qualified and selected dependent children of HII employees who are pursuing a post-secondary college or technical/vocation degree and to dependent children who are enrolled in quality prekindergarten school readiness programs. For the sixth consecutive year, HII President and CEO Mike Petters declined all but $1 of his annual salary to fund the program. “Each class of recipients over the past six years has had its own unique characteristics, and one of the most inspiring things to see this year has been the determination of young scholars across our country in continuing their education against all the hurdles and obstacles brought on by the pandemic,” Petters said. “I’m proud of the accomplishments all the HII scholarship recipients have made, and I look forward to seeing how each of them will shape their futures and those of their communities.” Individual award amounts range from $1,500 for selected students enrolled in a two-year college program to $3,000 for selected students enrolled in a four-year program; the postsecondary awards are renewable for recipients who remain in good academic standing. The fund also awards scholarships of up to $3,000 for pre-school education costs. Children of all HII employees are eligible to apply for the scholarship fund, with the exception of children of senior executives and those employees who have been with the company for less than two years. Guidelines and applications for the 2022 program will be available in early next year. The HII Scholarship Fund is administered through Scholarship America. The selection process for awards is independent of HII and based on both academic scholarship and financial need. No employee or officer of HII plays a part in the selection process.
Employee Engagement Survey Begins Sept. 22 Newport News Shipbuilding’s annual employee engagement survey, which will be administered electronically, begins Wednesday, Sept. 22. The survey provides employees the opportunity to let their voices be heard and results serve as a guide for leaders to understand how they are performing and what areas could be improved. Employees with company email addresses will receive an email from Gallup with a survey link. Employees without company email access should take the survey at a designated time with their crew during work hours. These employees will need to use their MyID to take the survey and are encouraged to access the survey on their mobile device or by logging on to a computer at one of the survey centers setup across the shipyard. The survey can be accessed (Sept. 22-Oct. 8) via the NNS to Go app or at survey.gallup.com/hii2021. For more information, watch a video on MyNNS or read a list of frequently asked questions.
Using Virtual Reality to Train Employees Newport News Shipbuilding’s In-Service Aircraft Carrier Trade Production Team is offering a virtual reality training for confined space safety, led by X11/X18 General Foreman Bill Bassett and his team. Bassett discovered the virtual reality training through his Trade Business Office and immediately saw the benefit of implementing the program on the waterfront, where it would be more convenient for deckplate mechanics. The confined space virtual reality training began in May and is coordinated by trainers Bruce Marshall and Lyndsey Hall. From vice presidents to deckplate mechanics, the team has conducted over 600 virtual reality trainings – averaging 150 participants per month. Virtual reality compliments the classroom training required for the qualification. The virtual reality training takes approximately 10 minutes and is held in a simulated confined space in the Production Trades Building (Bldg. 4911) near Dry Dock 10 and Outfitting Berth 1. Recently, Bassett and his team presented the training to Capt. Andrew P. Johnson, commanding officer of Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, Newport News, who expressed enthusiasm after the presentation. Johnson even challenged the team to look for other virtual reality training opportunities that
X33 C/D Lead General Foreman Stacy Mann participates in a confined space virtual reality training.
could benefit the In-Service Aircraft Carrier Program. “The goal is to work to get all of our mechanics, foremen and general foremen on USS George Washington (CVN 73) and USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) to participate in this VR training. We will begin to explore other areas of VR training like a training to help with fire prevention, for instance,” Bassett said.
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AROUND THE YARD NOTICE: Electric Scooters at NNS
Learning Organization Hosting Leadership Conference
Bird electric scooters have appeared on streets surrounding Newport News Shipbuilding in recent months. However, NNS employees are prohibited from using these scooters while on the clock. If assistance is needed to travel, shipbuilders should use NNS-provided methods of transportation – such as shuttles – during their shift or when arriving to and departing from work. Shipbuilders also should note that personal and Bird scooters are restricted from use on any NNS property, including parking lots and garages.
Newport News Shipbuilding’s Learning Organization is hosting its first Learning Actively, Supporting and Strengthening Others (LASSO) virtual leadership conference beginning Sept. 28. All sessions for the conference – titled Mission Possible: Agile Leadership in an Ever Changing Environment – are 30 minutes, and participants have several options from which to choose. The conference sessions begin at 4:10 p.m. and 4:50 p.m. on Sept. 28 and Oct. 12. Register, see topics and a lineup of presenters for the dates below on MyNNS. • Sept. 28 • Oct. 12 Please note: To attend sessions, employees must have access to a laptop, tablet or computer. For more information, contact Vickie Robinson at 757-871-7917 or via email or Michael McClellan at 757-705-8408 or via email.
On-Site Mammograms Available In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare’s mobile mammography unit will be on-site at the HII Family Health Center to perform free annual mammogram screenings on the following dates for employees: Sept. 27 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Oct. 25 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Oct. 18 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 2 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 29 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The fully equipped mammography unit offers comfortable and discreet 2D and 3D mammogram appointments for women age 40 and older. For more information and to make an appointment, call 757-312-6400 or visit www.chesapeakemammo.com.
NNS Hosting In-Yard Vaccination Events Newport News Shipbuilding is holding in-yard vaccination events from September through November. All events will be on Wednesdays in Bldg. 4931-1 (PCU Assembly Room). To reduce lines, events are divided between first and second shots. Times are adjusted to accommodate different shifts. Employees are asked to arrive 30 minutes before closing to allow time for staff to observe newly vaccinated employees and for wrap-up work. • Sept. 29 (first) and Oct. 20 (second) 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Oct. 13 (first) and Nov. 3 (second) 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Roadway Closure to Impact NNS Internal Shuttle Construction work is closing a section of 61st Street in the North Yard and will affect the internal shuttle route. The shuttle stop at Bldg. 1872 will be closed until construction ends in late November. Riders also may experience longer-thanexpected wait times as the construction interferes with the normal shuttle route. Email parkingsolutions@hii-nns.com with questions or concerns.
NNS Assessing COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates In a message to shipbuilders Sept. 17, Newport News Shipbuilding’s COVID-19 Crisis Action Group (CAG) wrote that it continues to assess requirements of the recently announced federal COVID-19 vaccination mandates. More information will be communicated to employees as decisions are made.
• Oct. 27 (first) and Nov. 17 (second) 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 Cases reported last week: 121
Total cases at NNS: 4,409
NNS employees medically cleared to return to work: 3,460
NNS employees vaccinated: 57%
See case details at nns.huntingtoningalls.com/411.
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DATEBOOK SEPTEMBER 21
Join the Veterans Employee Resource Group (VERG) and Shipbuilders Together Realizing Inclusion, Diversity and Equality (STRIDE) for “Job Interviews: Appearance vs. Authenticity” from noon until 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 21, 24 and 28 via WebEx. This professional development event will help attendees understand the balance between interview authenticity and first impressions with a number of guest speakers – including hiring managers, talent acquisition and vice presidents – who will answer questions and share experiences. Register on the STRIDE website. For more information, contact Diamond Bartlett at 688-6904 or via email.
SEPTEMBER 22
Join Engineering & Design and Manny Colon from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session on the Hispanic Outreach an Leadership Alliance (HOLA). HOLA is an employee resource group (ERG) committed to fostering leadership through networking, professional development and community involvement in concert with business objectives. This event takes place during lunch and is voluntary. No charge will be provided. Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.
SEPTEMBER 22
The Professional Enhancement and Enrichment Rotation (PEER) Program is hosting a learn at lunch WebEx event for potential candidates from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. The program is open to salaried individual contributors. To sign up, visit the PEER Program website on MyNNS.
SEPTEMBER 22
The L.E.A.R.N. Program and Women in Shipbuilding Enterprise (WiSE) will host an after-work presentation with Bharat Amin, HII executive vice president and CIO from 4 until 5 p.m. via WebEx. The event is open to all employees by reservation only. Sign up on the L.E.A.R.N. website on MyNNS. No charge is provided. For questions, contact Tanika Vasquez (E08) at 688-7916 or Chris Porro (E47) at 534-0332 or email LEARN@hii-nns.com.
SEPTEMBER 23
The Spear and Gear Toastmasters Club invites shipbuilders to hear speech presentations, participate in table topics and hear speech evaluations to develop public speaking, listening and leadership skills from 6:30 until 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Those interested in joining should contact Jamar Skyles (E03) or Paul Gee Jr. (E37).
SEPTEMBER 28
Join the William & Mary MBA Admissions Team from 4:15 until 5:15 p.m. at Brooks Crossing (Suite 100) to learn more about the university’s Part Time and Executive MBA programs, which are designed for working professionals. See the flyer to register. RSVP by Sept. 24.
SEPTEMBER 29
The Professional Enhancement and Enrichment Rotation (PEER) Program is hosting a learn at lunch WebEx event for potential candidates from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. The program is open to salaried individual contributors. To sign up, visit the PEER Program website on MyNNS.
SEPTEMBER 29
Join Engineering & Design, Cassandra Bonner and Evelyn Gregory (O18) from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session on the Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) Strategic Plan. The ED&I Strategic Plan is the blueprint to develop an inclusive workplace built on mutual respect, an appreciation of diversity, and a commitment to equity. This event takes place during lunch and is voluntary. No charge will be provided. Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.
SEPTEMBER 29
The NNS Lean Community of Practice (CoP) cordially invites shipbuilders to attend its Chapter 3: Life Hacks: How Lean Solves Everyday Frustrations event from 4:30 until 6 p.m. via WebEx. Have you ever felt frustrated doing a certain task or completing a process at work? Have you ever tried to identify the root of your problem? Join Amy Lynne Roosien, Lean sensei, and guest speaker Brian Tapajna, industrial engineer, to hear their thoughts on how to identify a problem, what Lean techniques you can use and how Lean impacts everyday life. Register on MyNNS.
WIN VIRGINIA LIVING MUSEUM TICKETS
Newport News Shipbuilding is holding drawings for employees to receive tickets for free, unlimited admission to the Virginia Living Museum for six people for one year. There are drawings for employees to receive the Virginia Living Museum tickets and drawings for NNS-branded swag bag consolation prizes. Shipbuilders can enter the contest once a day via the NNS to Go app until Sept. 20. Austin Lilly (E70) won last week’s drawing for the museum tickets, and Jennifer Frashure (X71) won the consolation prize. An additional drawing will be held Sept. 21.
SEEKING SHIPBUILDERS
Visit www.buildyourcareer.com to search for the latest NNS job openings.
Job Title
Req Number
Dept.
HII-Mechanical I3 (HVAC Technician) Welder (Trainee, Entry-level & Experienced)
9230 N905 9108, 9246, 9164 X18
Location Newport News Newport News
Employees are encouraged to use MyHR or the “Current HII Employees Job Search” button at www.buildyourcareer.com to apply. The company continues to offer cash bonus awards for referrals to select positions, visit www.huntingtoningalls.com/hii-careers/refer-a-friend for more information.
OCTOBER 1
The 17th annual In-Service Aircraft Carrier Invitational golf tournament will be held at Ford’s Colony Country Club in Williamsburg. The format is four man captain’s choice, with a check-in time of 10 a.m. and a noon shotgun start. The entry fee for this event is $125 per player, which includes green fee, cart, range balls, welcome bag, Aircraft Carrier Invitational shirt and post-tournament dinner. Proceeds from this event will benefit the USO. To register, contact Bruce Roberts at 380-4964 or via email.
OCTOBER 2
The 32nd annual Virginia Children’s Festival will be held at Town Point Park in Norfolk from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The event, designed with children 10 and younger in mind, includes more than 100 fun, creative and interactive activities. Admission is $5 and free for children age 1 and younger.
OCTOBER 4
The L.E.A.R.N. Program and the Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERG) will host an after-work presentation with Brian Fields, vice president of Enterprise (CVN 80) and Doris Miller (CVN 81) Aircraft Carrier Programs, from 4 to 5 p.m. via WebEx. The event is open to all employees by reservation only. Sign up on the L.E.A.R.N. website. No charge is provided. For questions, contact Tanika Vasquez (E08) at 688-7916 or Chris Porro (X51) at 534-0332 or email LEARN@hii-nns.com.
OCTOBER 11
The Engagement and Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) offices invite shipbuilders to join their monthly ED&I Together Strong Life Unites Panel Discussion Series: Mental Health & Wellness, from 4:30 until 6 p.m. via Zoom. Panelists include Amanda Wells (K17), Nicole Goldman of the Technical Solutions division, HII Benefits Manager Amy Iveson and Mike Altrogge (E84) of the Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERG). This event is open to all NNS employees. Register on MyNNS. No charge will be provided. Email DiversityAndInclusion@hii-nns.com with questions.
OCTOBER 14
The Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a number of activities. The main event, Hispanic Americans Lecture Series Redux Heritage and Hope: Shipbuilder’s Perspective, will be held from 4:30 until 6 p.m. Oct. 14 via Zoom. The meeting ID is 841 0145 9551.
REFER CANDIDATES FOR CASH BONUS
Newport News Shipbuilding is offering $500 cash bonus awards to current employees who refer trades candidates who are hired. Referrals must be submitted through the internal employee Careers site signing in with the employee’s MyHR ID and must be submitted by Dec. 31. Employees will be required to submit a copy of their referral’s resume; this is a system requirement. Both the referral and job seeker’s application must be submitted before the job posting deadline. Visit the REFER program resource page at huntingtoningalls.com/hii-careers/refer-a-friend for more information.