Oct. 4, 2021 by Newport News Shipbuilding

10 l 4 l 2021

A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding

Photo by Ashley Cowan

Foundry Completes Milestone Pour Newport News Shipbuilding’s Foundry recently completed a pour of the first casting for Wisconsin (SSBN 827), the nation’s second Columbia-class submarine. In addition to the recent SSBN 827 casting, the Foundry has started the molding process for other Wisconsin castings.

more than 50 years, shipbuilders in the Foundry have poured most of the NNS castings for the lead ship (SSBN 826), with all lead ship castings expected to be complete next year. This Wisconsin casting represents the beginning of sequential construction work on the Columbia-Class Program that will span the next two decades.

Since restarting ballistic missile submarine construction at NNS for the first time in

“We enjoy a strong collaboration with many teams across the company to keep

our production on track,” said Foundry Superintendent Kenton Meland. “We are fortunate to have strong support from the Columbia Program Office, Engineering and Design, Laboratory Services, NonDestructive Testing, Waterfront Support Services, Facilities and Component Fabrication and Assembly (CFA) Production Control so that we can meet our production commitments.”

NNS Announces Exemption Process for COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate

Employee Engagement Survey Ends Oct. 8

As a result of a federal government mandate, COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for all Newport News Shipbuilding employees, with few exceptions, by Dec. 8.

Shipbuilders have an opportunity to participate in this year’s employee engagement survey through Friday, Oct. 8. Employees with company computer access should have received an email from Gallup inviting them to participate. Employees without company computer access are taking 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 set up across the shipyard.

A limited set of legitimate medical conditions and sincere religious beliefs may exempt some employees from the mandate and require accommodation. To be considered for exemption from vaccination, employees must complete forms for either religious exemption consideration or medical exemption consideration. Completed religious accommodation forms must be notarized using non-company resources and submitted no later than midnight on Oct. 13. Completed medical request forms must be submitted as soon as possible and no later than midnight on Oct. 29. Requests for exemption from vaccination are not guaranteed to be granted. Visit nns.huntingtoningalls.com/exemption-requests for more information and for copies of the forms. A list of frequently asked questions also is available on the website.

2 2

CURRENTS

10 | 4 | 2021 Submarine Program trade director. “Quality is doing the job right the first time. It means we have conducted a thorough review of the work scope via technical work authorizing document(s), verified craftsmen qualifications, evaluated the job site and eliminated any safety concerns, ensured the craftsmen have the right tools for the job, performed a pre-job brief with team members who will be accomplishing the work. Also asking questions of the team to test knowledge/comprehension. Our No Fail Mission of delivering quality ships on schedule will largely be driven by the quality of our work that is performed every day.”

Shipbuilders posted banners near NNS gates in recognition of National Quality Month. Photo by Ashley Cowan

Recognizing National Quality Month For National Quality Month in October, Quality Problem Management (O06) asked each program trade director to share what quality means to them. Each program will be featured throughout the month. The following message is from David Brinkley III, Virginia-Class

In the upcoming weeks, craftsmen throughout the organization will be recognized by demonstrating first-time quality in their daily work practices. Every week, one Quality Craftsman will be chosen for each program. The first round of nominations is due Oct. 8. All nominations should be sent to your appropriate program quality manager (PQM) within Steve DeBusk’s group.

Making Their Own Way Serena Cook (X36) and Jazzmine Dukes (X36) are among the small group of female riggers at Newport News Shipbuilding. The two women have found success in the trade, which traditionally has been dominated by men. “I encourage women to try it. You might fall in love with it,” Cook said. “I love it because you get to really be creative in rigging, especially on the boat.” Although it was appreciated, Cook said one of the most difficult parts of the job in the beginning was dealing with some male co-workers who offered help when it wasn’t necessary. “I wanted to stand on my own. At the end of the day, this is what I signed up for. I knew what I was getting into when I came to the shipyard. When I come to work, I want to be able to do what the job requires of me. If the guys are out there doing it, I should be able to do it as well,” Cook said. “It’s a lot easier for me now because everyone who works with me knows I can hold my own.” X36 Foreman Hassan Suluki said engagement, inclusion and diversity are important in the workplace and make the environment better for everyone. “It is vital to create a more inclusive work environment where everyone feels respected. This is how you get the ‘Hard Stuff Done Right,’” he said. Cook, an Army veteran who worked as a contractor at other shipyards before coming to NNS about four years ago, said she is never made to feel out of place or isolated within her crew. And while strenuous tasks are part of the job, she said there are materials and ergonomic processes in place to protect shipbuilders’ safety.

There are fewer than two dozen female riggers at NNS, including Jazzmine Dukes and Serena Cook. Note: this photo was taken before the reinstatement of NNS’ mask mandate.

Her advice to other women: “Don’t doubt yourself. With everything you do, give it your all. As a female rigger, I want to leave a stamp on this trade and be an example to other women that they too are capable of being successful in this field.”

10 | 4 | 2021

CURRENTS 3

AROUND THE YARD Observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month

As we observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, take time to not only recognize the great achievements and innovations of employees with disabilities throughout our nation’s history, but also their significant impact on Newport News Shipbuilding’s success. Look for posters featuring the 2021 national theme – Increasing Access and Opportunity – across NNS during the month. Additional coverage is available in the Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion section of the NNS to Go app.

NNS Hosting Next Virtual Trades Hiring Event on Oct. 20 Newport News Shipbuilding Talent Acquisition is hosting a series of virtual hiring events this fall to fill numerous trades positions. The next virtual hiring event for pipefitters will be held on Oct. 20. The deadline to apply is Oct. 13. NNS is currently offering $500 sign-on bonuses to pipefitter trainee and entry-level new hires, and $1,000 sign-on bonuses to experienced pipefitter new hires. In addition, a $2,500 sign-on bonus is offered to candidates hired with active security clearances. Job seekers who apply through Dec. 31 are eligible for the sign-on bonuses.

REMINDER: Time Certifications

Time certifications are generated when someone other than the employee – a foreman or supervisor, for example – enters or changes the employee’s time. When this occurs, the employee must quickly certify whether or not the modifications are accurate. Employees review and address their time certifications by choosing “agree” or “disagree.” Employees are required to discuss rejected time certifications with Labor Compliance (O73) to resolve the time certification. For questions related to the time certification process, employees should contact their foreman/supervisor, or Labor Compliance (O73) at 534-4147 or visit the O73 website on MyNNS.

The sign-on bonuses are for external new hires; current NNS employees are ineligible. In addition, NNS is also now offering $500 cash bonus awards to current NNS employees who refer trades candidates who are hired. For more information, please visit the REFER program resource page at huntingtoningalls.com/hii-careers/refer-afriend. Employees are encouraged to share these opportunities. Visit buildyourcareer.com for more information about upcoming hiring events.

New Jersey (SSN 796) Christening Volunteer Information The Communications Division is seeking employee volunteers who would like to support the Nov. 13 ceremony as parking attendants, site staff and ushers. Shipbuilders interested in volunteering should email ShipbuildingEvents@hii-nns.com for more information or questions. Photo Services also is seeking employee volunteers to help photograph events. Shipbuilders who are interested in volunteering for the New Jersey christening or future events should send a portfolio of their work to photo@hii-nns.com.

SEEKING SHIPBUILDERS

Visit www.buildyourcareer.com to search for the latest NNS job openings.

Job Title

Req Number

Dept.

Location

CNC Machinist (Experienced) Engineer Electrical 3 Engineer Lead Test 3 Engineer Lead Test 4 Engineer Nuclear 3 Engineer Nuclear 3 Fitter (Trainee, Entry-level & Experienced) Outside Machinist (Trainee, Entry-level & Experienced) Pipefitter (Trainee, Entry-level & Experienced) Refueler (Experienced) Rigger (Entry-level & Experienced) Sheet Metal Worker (Trainee, Entry-level, & Experienced) Ship Safety Watch Welder (Trainee, Entry-level & Experienced)

8771 9965 9290 9301 9105 6710, 6711, 6857 9044, 8814, 9029 8624, 8584, 8574 9586, 9604, 9605 8625 8664, 8665 8626, 8628, 8627 8604 8685, 8645, 8644

M53 E70 E84 E25 E85 E86 X11 X43 X42 X43 X36 X32 X43 X18

Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News Newport News 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.

Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 Cases reported last week: 90

Total cases at NNS: 4,638

NNS employees medically cleared to return to work: 3,504

NNS employees vaccinated: 59%

See case details at nns.huntingtoningalls.com/411.

4 2

CURRENTS

10 | 4 | 2021

DATEBOOK OCTOBER 6

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.

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 13

Join Engineering & Design, Amber Richardson (O36) and Chris Brown (O35) from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session on WebEx 101. Are you WebEx savvy? WebEx is a dynamic tool that has several features that aid in collaboration and knowledge sharing. Successfully navigate your next WebEx meeting. Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.

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.

OCTOBER 17

The Mariners Club at NNS is holding its annual golf tournament at the Kingsmill Resort’s River Course. Checkin begins at 7 a.m. with a buffet breakfast (included) served from 7 until 8:30 a.m. The tournament is a fourman captain’s choice format, and there will be a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Proceeds will support local charities. Contact Rudy Hendricks (X21) via email to request a registration form. Only the first 32 teams will be accepted.

OCTOBER 20

Join Engineering & Design, Amber Richardson (O36) and Chris Brown (O35) from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session on WebEx 102. Since you already know the basics, we can kick it up a notch. WebEx 102 will cover some advanced WebEx functionality that people may not know exist. Want to impress your team? Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.

OCTOBER 27

Join the Engineering & Design Communications Team from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session on active listening. This session is part of a Capitalize Communication series that is focused on using tools and techniques to improve communication. Active listening is the key to getting the most out of a conversation because it concentrates on what is being said and involves fully engaging in the messages that are being conveyed. Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.

OCTOBER 28

The Spear and Gear Toastmasters Club invites shipbuilders to its monthly virtual meeting to hear speech presentations, participate in table topics and hear speech evaluations to develop public speaking, listening and leadership skills from 6 until 7 p.m. via Zoom. Those interested in joining should contact Jamar Skyles (E03) or Tammy Smith (N358) for more information.

NOVEMBER 1-12

Newport News Shipbuilding’s 2021 Holiday Food Drive will be held Nov. 1-12. Options will be available to order food items or donate monetarily to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank online and containers will be located at gates/turnstiles to drop off food items. Boxes also will be available for on-site department collections and competitions. In addition, employees can make a one-time credit card donation or reoccurring payroll and one-time payroll deductions at nns.YourCause.com.

OCTOBER 13

Join the Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERG) from 12 until 12:30 p.m. to celebrate the U.S. Navy’s birthday and discuss the importance of being “Resilient and Ready.” Gary Fuller, vice president of Fleet Support Programs, will lead the discussion. Note: This is a lunch and learn event, and no charge information will be provided. Register on MyNNS. WebEx number is 990 638 651. Invites with be sent out 24 hours before the event for those who are registered. For more information, contact Mike Altrogge via email.

OCTOBER 14

Join the E&D Change Agent Team from noon until 12:30 p.m. for a Virtual Learning Session – Simple Approach to Action Planning. Taking action on employee feedback is essential. Creating an action plan based on employee feedback can lead to increased engagement and productivity. The Simple Approach to Action Planning uses guided questions that tie your action plan to your team goals. Sign up on MyNNS to receive a calendar invite to attend. For questions and concerns, email E&D Connections.

OCTOBER 14

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 4 until 5 p.m. at VASCIC. COVID-19 protocols will be in place, masks will be required. Those interested in joining should contact Jamar Skyles (E03) or Tammy Smith (N358) for more information.

LOGO CONTEST

The SharePoint Community of Practice (CoP) is looking for a new logo and needs shipbuilders’ help. Get your creative juices flowing and design an eye-catching new logo that represents how the SharePoint CoP and its members are transforming the business. This logo will represent the SharePoint CoP members and be used on the SharePoint CoP website, in emails, on printed material, and may be used on other promotional items. For questions and concerns, email the SharePoint CoP.

VIRTUAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

A virtual leadership conference, hosted by Newport News Shipbuilding’s Learning Organization, continues Oct. 12. 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 kicks off at 4 p.m. and sessions begin at 4:10 p.m. and 4:50 p.m. Register, see topics and a lineup of presenters for the Oct. 12 sessions on MyNNS. Please note: To attend sessions, employees must have access to a company 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.

Shipbuilders are encouraged to download the latest version of the NNS to Go app. It is designed to give employees immediate information regarding shipyard operations, including delays, closures and warnings, as well as access to company news, employee resources, photos and videos, careers, special events and employee discounts. NNS to Go is available for download in both the Apple App and Google Play stores. The latest version allows users to share content to social media directly from the app.

September 30, 2021 Dear Shipbuilders, Over the past few weeks, we have been reviewing the executive order requiring federal workers and federal contractors like Newport News Shipbuilding to be vaccinated against COVID-19. During this time, we have also heard from many of you on both sides of the vaccine discussion. While we respect all perspectives and appreciate your candid feedback, the mandate is clear that by December 8, 2021, employees of federal contractors must be fully vaccinated. As such, all Newport News Shipbuilding employees, with few exceptions, will need to be fully vaccinated by December 8, 2021, to remain employed. While we are discussing the effects of this mandate with our union partners, it will be a condition of continued employment for our workforce to be fully vaccinated by the above date. That means all vaccinations must be complete by November 24, 2021 (see schedule below). We don’t want to lose a single team member over this policy. Our Navy and the nation depend on all of us to provide the ships needed to defend our freedoms. However, we must keep our workforce and facility safe, and we will follow all federal laws and regulations. I understand that some shipbuilders are hesitant to get vaccinated. I urge any employee to consult objective and credible sources of information such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and your own physician.

4101 Washington Avenue ● Newport News, VA 23607 ● Telephone (757) 380-2000 ● www.huntingtoningalls.com

Additional details will be provided next week, but here are a few key takeaways from this mandate: •

Employees must submit paper or digital copy proof of their vaccination cards or other medical records that indicate when they received both shots for the two-shot regimen or one shot for the Johnson & Johnson regimen. Instructions on providing proof of vaccination will be provided next week.

•

This vaccination mandate applies to all of the workforce. Remote workers are not exempt from this order. It is also a requirement for all new NNS hires.

•

There are no exceptions for persons to take COVID tests in lieu of vaccination.

•

Proof of a prior COVID-19 infection or proof of an antibody test are not acceptable substitutions.

•

Medical and religious exemptions can be requested and will be evaluated for accommodation. Additional details on how to submit an exemption will be provided next week. Individuals who fail to meet the legal requirements for an exemption or cannot be accommodated will be notified in time to meet the December 8 deadline for full vaccination.

•

Vaccinations continue to be widely available across our community, and in addition, we are re-establishing the onsite vaccination facility at the old Apprentice School gym starting October 18. Shipbuilders can also be vaccinated at in-yard vaccination events scheduled on Wednesdays throughout the months of October and November.

While all aspects of COVID continue to be a strain and cause stress, it is imperative that we move beyond this and ensure continued viability of our 135-year-old business. We are critical to our nation and to our Hampton Roads community, and we will get through this and continue our important mission. Thank you all for everything you do. Respectfully,

Jennifer Boykin President Newport News Shipbuilding