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A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Leonel Bornales (X36) donated during a recent American Red Cross blood drive at Newport News Shipbuilding. Photo by Lexi Whitehead
Shipbuilders Save Lives The American Red Cross is thanking Newport News Shipbuilding employees for their support of the organization’s life-saving initiatives through blood and monetary donations as well as CPR and first aid training. Since 1993, NNS has contributed nearly $1.3 million to various Red Cross causes and trained thousands in CPR and first aid. Over the past 25 years, NNS has hosted more than 600 blood drives, during which shipbuilders have donated 18,200 units of blood. That is enough blood to potentially impact more than 54,000 lives. “Through their generosity, our shipbuilders have and continue to
make a remarkable difference,” said Judy Fundak (K18) of NNS’ Community Relations Office. The American Red Cross presented NNS with a certificate in honor of the company’s longtime partnership. NNS continues to host regular blood drives for the American Red Cross. Shipbuilders who donate receive a charge for their time. Upcoming blood drives will be held from 7:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 21, Nov. 3 and Nov. 11 in Bldg. 520-6 (James River Room). To schedule an appointment, contact Sheryce Moore (K18) or Natasha Eck (E83) via email.
October is National Quality Month October is National Quality Month, and Oct. 14 is World Standards Day. These are opportunities for the quality community to share success stories. It also is important to acknowledge the value of quality – especially with regard to shipbuilding. President Ronald Reagan established National Quality Month in 1984. He noted that quality contributes to increased productivity, reduced costs and consumer satisfaction. CONTINUED ON PG 2 The Rock is a representation of Newport News Shipbuilding’s commitment to quality. It includes a plaque that reads: “We shall build good ships here; at a profit if we can, at a loss if we must, but always good ships.” Photo by Ashley Cowan
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October is National Fire Prevention Month Newport News Shipbuilding Fire Marshal Troy Long is always focused on fires. He’s responsible for ensuring proper fire protection across the shipyard and investigating any fires that occur. But he’d rather prevent fires – along with any possible injuries or loss of property – before they happen. “We’re all in this together, and we want to make sure everybody goes home the same way they came to work,” he said. “Fire prevention is key, and we all have to be proactive and not reactive.” Long is part of NNS’ Fire Prevention Office along with Zena Lewis, an inspector, and Emmett Mathews, who works on drills for ships and submarines. As NNS recognizes National Fire Prevention Month in October, Long encourages shipbuilders to think about
how they can help prevent or mitigate fires.
reduce the risk of fires.”
Fire extinguishers – which are inspected monthly – are located across the shipyard. “No matter where people are working, everyone should know the type of extinguisher they have in their area, where it is located, how to use it, and what they should use it on,” he said. “Also, everyone should be familiar with their emergency action plan and know how to safely exit in the event of an emergency.”
While his focus is on the shipyard, Long said shipbuilders should also be vigilant about fire prevention and mitigation off the clock as well. At home, be sure to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and a Class K fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Check with your local fire marshal’s office or fire department, as some may provide and install smoke alarms at no cost for residents who do not have them.
Using approved appliances, practicing good housekeeping, and following company policies and procedures can significantly help in preventing or mitigating fires. “Many of the fires we have involve combustible materials such as paper, cardboard and trash,” Long said. “If we all practice good housekeeping we can greatly
Long warns against complacency at work and at home, which is often a factor in fires. “We’re creatures of habit, we don’t want to become complacent, it could lead to injuries or fires,” he said.
October is National Quality Month CONTINUED FROM PG 1
The aim of National Quality Month was to enhance the nation’s companies, and since then American businesses like NNS have observed it as a chance to raise awareness of quality initiatives and highlight successes. On Oct. 13, 1946, delegates from 25 nations met in London to establish the International Organization of Standards, or ISO, with the goal of promoting standardization. In 1970, the inaugural World Standards Day was observed, keeping Oct. 14 as the celebration day. Adopting ISO standards enables businesses to give customers confidence that their goods are trustworthy, reliable and of high quality. As a result, specialists, regulators and governments rely on ISO standards to assist in the development of better regulation. This October, NNS has the chance to raise awareness of the value of quality methods for reducing waste, saving money, improving customer experience and streamlining processes. Shipbuilders should celebrate the success of current accomplishments while making plans for future success. Be sure to send weekly nominations for National Quality Month to QualityCraftsman@hii-nns.com by Oct. 14.
Download a fire safety checklist from the American Red Cross at redcross.org.
NNS Talent Acquisition Hosting Hiring Event for Training Instructors Newport News Shipbuilding Talent Acquisition is hosting a hiring event for O26 training instructors on Oct. 21. Qualified internal candidates will have the opportunity to interview in-person at NetCenter. Qualified external candidates will have the opportunity for a video interview. Applications will be accepted until Oct. 15. Numerous positions are available to support training for welders (X18), electricians (X31) and machinists (X43). To apply or learn more about the training instructor/product trainer 2 position, visit buildyourcareer.com and search for req No. 26642.
Happy Birthday, U.S. Navy The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 247th birthday Thursday, Oct. 13. Newport News Shipbuilding is proud to partner with the Navy to build and maintain the aircraft carriers and submarines that defend American freedom and protect American sailors.
USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) follows a Los Angeles-class submarine in waters east of the Korean Peninsula. Built by Newport News shipbuilders, Reagan is homeported in Japan and is the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo
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AROUND THE YARD New Parking Options for Carpooling Newport News Shipbuilding employees who commute via carpool or vanpool have a new parking opportunity: the Newport News Transit Center at 35th Street. Hampton Roads Transit, in partnership with TRAFFIX, has designated parking spots available at the newly renovated center for NNS employees who are registered carpool/ vanpool users. Carpooling or vanpooling are great options for employees interested in saving money on gas, preventing wear and tear on your personal vehicle and reducing your carbon footprint. Simply register your carpool by visiting GoTraffix.com/programs/park-ride. Registration with TRAFFIX is required to park on site, and all parking is available on a first come basis. Towing for unregistered vehicles is enforced. For more information, call 1-800-700-RIDE (7433).
Nominations Open for Diversity Conferences As part of the company’s commitment to demonstrate diversity and inclusion as a business imperative, Newport News Shipbuilding takes pride in celebrating its employees by participating and recognizing success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through the participation in national conventions and award conferences. Through this effort, NNS supports six major STEM diversity conferences each year. Twice a year, the company requests nominations of employees who have and are making significant contributions to be recognized during these diversity conferences. Nominations for the conferences listed below are open through Dec. 15. Society of Asian Scientist and Engineers (SASE): In line with one of SASE’s pillars, to celebrate diversity on campuses and in the workplace, SASE recognizes the great achievements of Asian Pacific Islander American students and professionals in their respective worlds. Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE): SHPE’s mission is to change lives by empowering the Hispanic community to its full potential in STEM. SHPE was created to bring awareness, provide access and prepare Hispanics for STEM careers.
E81 Director Gets Dunked for Charity E81 recently hosted an engagement event at Bldg. 600 that included two dunk tanks, catered food and a pot luck. This event was designed to build engagement within the department, have some fun during lunch and support a good cause. Paul Tovey, director of Nuclear Propulsion Overhaul Engineering, agreed to sit in the dunk tank for anyone making a canned food donation to kick off the annual food drive. Robert Heisler coordinated the event and Joshua Mason smoked and grilled fresh brisket, chicken and pork. The Apprentice School athletic program supported the event by allowing use of the practice field and surrounding area and facilities to make the event a success.
Women of Color (WOC): The WOC STEM Conference recognizes outstanding women in the STEM fields and provides opportunities for professional development, networking and recruiting.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
To learn more about nominating an employee, visit the Diversity Conference and Awards website on MyNNS.
As Newport News Shipbuilding and HII recognize Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, take time to not only recognize the great achievements and innovations of those with disabilities throughout the nation’s history, but also their significant impact on the success of NNS and HII.
NOTICE: COVID-19 Case Reporting Update Newport News Shipbuilding has communicated the number of employees who report positive COVID-19 tests since the beginning of the pandemic. As a result of changing guidance, NNS will no longer communicate these updates in Currents or online, effective this week.
Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 Cases reported at NNS from Sept. 26-Oct. 9: 57
See updates at nns.huntingtoningalls.com/411.
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DATEBOOK OCTOBER 12
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. Sign up on the PEER Program website on MyNNS.
OCTOBER 13
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, contact Tammy Smith (N358), Paul Gee Jr. (O52), Brandon Jones (E63) or Jamar Skyles (E03) at NNS or Taylor Chamberlain (E91) at KSO.
OCTOBER 14
Join the Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) from 12 until 12:30 p.m. for session one of its Hispanic American Lecture Series: Distintos Pero Unidos (Together in Our Differences). During this lecture-style session, Marco Lopez will give some insight into his life and perspective as an Asian American living in the United States. The presentation will take place over WebEx. The event is open to all NNS employees and no charge will be provided. Register on MyNNS.
OCTOBER 18
NNS employees with less than five years of experience are invited to Coastal Fermentory from 4:30 until 7 p.m. to kick off the NNS New Hire Employee Resource Group (ERG). Sponsored by NNS President Jennifer Boykin, this ERG will create an environment that enhances the new employee experience through connections, personal development and growth, and building strong business and professional networks across the enterprise. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. You will also have an opportunity to challenge your colleagues in a friendly game of cornhole. Register on MyNNS.
OCTOBER 18-20
The Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) is hosting a virtual conference Oct. 18-20. NNS is a corporate member, and all shipbuilders are invited. The conference includes keynote speakers, practitioner presentations, idea exchanges and live tours in several tracks related to continuous improvement, supply chain, leadership and more. Attend one, several or all the of the sessions. Seek approval from your management before registering. Contact Brian Tapajna for registration instructions.
OCTOBER 19
Newport News Shipbuilding Talent Acquisition is hosting open interviews for entry-level and trainee fitter (X11) and welder (X18) positions between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the NNS Employment Office, located at NetCenter (Suite 176, Entrance 3). Job seekers may apply in advance to reqs 25746, 25744, 25650 or 25845 at buildyourcareer.com.
OCTOBER 20
A food truck roundup will be held from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at The Rock. In addition to food vendors Burger Mania, Jessie Lou’s, Latin 2 Soul and Old City BBQ, representatives from QuadMed, Benefits, and the Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion team will be on hand to share pertinent information with the workforce.
OCTOBER 26
Newport News Shipbuilding Talent Acquisition is hosting open interviews for entry-level and experienced outside machinist (X43), refueler (X43), and pipefitter (X42) positions between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the NNS Employment Office, located at NetCenter (Suite 176, Entrance 3). Job seekers may also apply in advance to reqs 25564, 25565, 25566, 25567, or 25569 at buildyourcareer.com.
OCTOBER 19
The Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) and Asian Shipbuilders Including All Nationalities (ASIAN) are hosting an in-person speed mentoring workshop from 4:30 until 6 p.m. to close out Hispanic Heritage Month. The event is open to all NNS employees and no charge will be provided. Register on MyNNS.
OCTOBER 27
Spear and Gear Toastmasters welcomes all shipbuilders to an online meeting via Zoom at 6 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, contact Tammy Smith (N358), Paul Gee Jr. (O52), Brandon Jones (E63) or Jamar Skyles (E03) at NNS or Taylor Chamberlain (E91) at KSO.
NOVEMBER 3
Join the LEAN Community of Practice (CoP) for an end-of-year celebration from 3:45 until 5 p.m. at Coastal Fermentory in Newport News. Use this as your chance to build relationships with other fellow NNS lean disruptors, share ideas and strengthen your work community. First 50 registrants will be included in a gift card raffle along with the first 30 people who arrive at the event. Register on MyNNS. This event is open to all NNS employees. No charge will be provided.
NOVEMBER 5 AND 12
Newport News Shipbuilding is a sponsor of the 2022 Hampton Roads Heart Walk, which supports the American Heart Association. The Peninsula walk will be held at 9 a.m. Nov. 5 at Fort Monroe’s Outlook Beach Boardwalk. The Southside walk will be held at 9 a.m. Nov. 12 at Chesapeake City Park.
NOVEMBER 6
Join The Apprentice School Student Association at Ford’s Colony at 7:30 a.m. for the annual Veterans Day Golf Tournament in support of the Fisher House of Portsmouth. The entry fee will be $60 per person, with teams of four. Each team must include at least one apprentice or alumnus to participate. Lunch will be provided. RSVP at ApprenticeStudents.com/events. For more information, contact Jessica Lawson at 757-703-6090.
SEEKING SHIPBUILDERS Job Title Req Number Dept. Aerospace Engineer 19062 E46 (Washington D.C.) Assembler 25925 M53 CNC Machinist Experienced 26284 M53 College Co-ops (Business 23455, 23545 K21 Management & Engineering) Engineer Electrical 2 24124, 25125 E70 Engineer Mechanical 2 22292 E61 Engineer Structural 2 18953 E92 Engineer Welding 2 24430 E37 Essential Trades 22874, 22875, X42, X43, Training Programs 22873, 23104 X32, X31 Fitters 25746, 25744, X11 25745, 25725 Outside Machinists 25564, 25565 X43 Patternmaker 3 26830 M71 Pipefitters 25567, 25569 X42 Piping Systems Engineer 3 22881 E21 Product Trainer 3 (X18) 21207 O26 Refueler 25566 X43 Staff Physician 17067 O28 Welders 25650, 25845, X18 25664, 25665
Visit www.buildyourcareer.com to search for the latest NNS job openings.
Employee Referral Cash Bonus Eligible
Remote Work Considered Yes
Not Eligible Eligible Not Eligible
No No No
Eligible Eligible Eligible Not Eligible Not Eligible
No No Yes No No
Eligible
No
Eligible Not Eligible Eligible Eligible Not Eligible Eligible Not Eligible Eligible
No No No Yes No 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.