2013 Annual Report
The Apprentice School 2013 Annual Report Craftsmanship | Scholarship | Leadership
2
Leadership Messages
5
Director’s Message 28
6
At-a-Glance
8
Administration
10
Craftsmanship
22
Scholarship
30
Leadership
Contributors | J.D. Drewry, Jim Heath, Jacob Johnston, Will Prescott and Vince Warren Editor | April Shockley Kiehl Graphic Designer | Troy Cooper Photographers | Troy Cooper, Chris Oxley, Ricky Thompson and John Whalen
42
Alumni Highlights
Frontline FAST
44
New Facility
2 Leadership Messages The Apprentice School is a critical element of Huntington Ingalls Industries’ workforce development strategy and global competitiveness. For 94 years, it has provided our Newport News Shipbuilding division with a steady stream of skilled craftsmen and shipyard leaders who have helped design and build the greatest military ships ever to sail the world. While we’re proud of the school’s past, we are also excited by its future— especially our partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia to build a new campus that opened in 2013 and the role it is playing in the revitalization of downtown Newport News. _Mike Petters, President and CEO Huntington Ingalls Industries
Developing and training a skilled workforce has been and will continue to be critical to our business. Since 1919, The Apprentice School has produced the finest shipbuilders to build the greatest, most complex ships in the world. We are very proud of this legacy, and of the significant contributions our apprentices have made to our shipyard and to our nation. _Matt Mulherin, President Newport News Shipbuilding
When Homer L. Ferguson commissioned an apprentice school nearly 100 years ago, his vision was crystal clear: attract, build and position America’s best shipbuilding talent at Newport News Shipbuilding. While the ships, shipyard and shipbuilding crafts have changed, The Apprentice School’s commitment to Ferguson’s vision has not. He would be proud that we have evolved to stay ahead of the times as we attract the best people, build them into great shipbuilders and position them to lead America’s shipbuilding industry. The Apprentice School is a living institution, an institution where America’s best shipbuilders are crafted in the crucible of hard work, precision and an incessant demand for excellence underpinned with commitment to craftsmanship, scholarship and leadership. _Danny Hunley, Vice President, Operations Newport News Shipbuilding
3
4
5 Director’s Message The Apprentice School’s 94th year has been one of the most exciting years in the school’s history. Perhaps the most dramatic event has been our move to the school’s new, state-of-the-art 92,000-squarefoot facility. Celebrated during a Dec. 6 ceremony attended by our governor and 600 invited guests, the move enhances our ability to develop shipbuilders who possess a combination of leadership skills and technical competence exclusively available through The Apprentice School. This year’s accomplishments reaffirm The Apprentice School’s commitment to craftsmanship, scholarship and leadership and include, but are most certainly not limited to, the following: • the significant contributions of craft instructors, apprentices and alumni during the redelivery of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), the delivery of the submarine USS Minnesota (SSN 783) and the construction and christening of the nation’s newest aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford; • the delivery of our third annual “Leadership Experience” at the College of William & Mary’s Mason School of Business; • the first complete year of Frontline Foreman Accelerated Skills Training (Frontline FAST); • the introduction and implementation of our Professional Development Program, culminating in a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering from Old Dominion University; • the processing of more than 5,500 applications and the selection of 265 new apprentices; and • the launch of the school’s new website at www.as.edu. Collectively, these accomplishments support the school’s registered apprenticeships in 19 shipbuilding disciplines and eight advanced programs of study and enhance the leadership development experience offered by the school. The year was a momentous one in the history of The Apprentice School, and it is with great pride that I invite you to learn more about our school and the events and accomplishments of 2013. Join us as we celebrate not only our commitment to craftsmanship, scholarship and leadership, but our commitment to providing a unique educational experience, one that is as important to our country as it is to our graduates. Everett H. Jordan Jr. Director, Education Newport News Shipbuilding The Apprentice School Class of 1977
6 At-a-Glance Founded in 1919 at Newport News Shipbuilding, The Apprentice School offers four- and five- year apprenticeships in 19 shipbuilding disciplines and eight advanced programs of study. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education and registered with the Virginia Apprenticeship Council, the school affords apprentices the opportunity to receive competitive pay and benefits, earn college credit, learn a trade and develop a lifelong commitment to craftsmanship, scholarship and leadership.
CRAFTSMANSHIP _
Apprentices spend a minimum of 7,000 hours learning a shipbuilding discipline while playing an integral role in the construction, maintenance and overhaul of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines.
SCHOLARSHIP _
Apprentices build a strong academic foundation during their completion of the World Class Shipbuilder Curriculum and Trade Related Education Curriculum, complementing on-the-job training in a shipbuilding discipline.
LEADERSHIP _
Apprentices become leaders as they grow in their commitment to The Apprentice School’s leadership principles of integrity, commitment, improvement, respect, teamwork, empowerment, communication, planning and decision making.
MISSION _
The mission of The Apprentice School is: • To contribute to the profitability and growth of Newport News Shipbuilding by recruiting, training and developing men and women for careers in shipbuilding. • To provide the company with a continuous supply of journeypersons who possess the skills, knowledge and pride of workmanship which have traditionally distinguished the shipbuilding craftsman. • To develop core leadership principles in all students along with the character and technical competence that is required to fully meet the challenges of a shipbuilding career.
7 Core Values For 94 years, The Apprentice School has remained steadfast in its commitment to uphold the core values of Newport News Shipbuilding. This commitment supports The Apprentice School’s mission and prepares alumni to continue the company’s long tradition of building the most complex naval vessels in the world.
INTEGRITY _
Integrity is at the heart of who we are and what we do. We are each personally accountable for the highest standards of ethics and integrity. We will fulfill our commitments as responsible citizens and employees. We will consistently treat customers and company resources with the respect they deserve.
HONESTY _
We are committed to being honest and fair with our customers, our employees, our stakeholders and each other. We will be truthful, trustworthy and honorable in all aspects of our work.
ENGAGEMENT _
Employees are very involved in what they do and take ownership of their work and their work processes. Engagement is a heightened level of ownership where employees want to do whatever they can for the benefit of their internal and external customers, and for the success of the organization as a whole.
RESPONSIBILITY _
We seek and accept personal responsibility for our actions and results. We keep promises and commitments made to others. We are responsible for ensuring quality is built into everything we do. We take pride in providing outstanding customer service.
PERFORMANCE _
We hold ourselves to a very high standard of performance. We are committed to improving our company performance while upholding our strong values. Superior performance and quality ensure future trust and confidence in our products. We promote continuous improvement, innovation and creativity.
8 Administration
Vince Warren Manager, Craft Training Class of 1987
James H. Hughes, Ph.D. Manager, Academics
9
Keisha Pexton Manager, Strategic Projects and Athletic Director Class of 2003
Dan Brookman Manager, Admissions and Student Services Class of 1976
10 Craftsmanship
F
or a young person to earn a college degree while working and getting paid is an unheard of opportunity in most companies and industries. I am proud
and honored to be a part of this opportunity offered by The Apprentice School and support the training of apprentices. As a military retiree, I can relate to training. I enjoy seeing apprentices complete the program and their pride when they do, just as recruits do when they walk across that parade deck. Sally Krystyn Administrative Support Personnel
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION _ The USS Minnesota Propulsor Late Delivery Risk Mitigation Team received an Excellence In Action Award for its work on the submarine USS Minnesota (SSN 783). The team worked efficiently to make up time in the schedule and ultimately meet the project deadline. Among team members recognized were (left to right) Outside Machinist Craft Instructor Alan Riley; Outside Machinist Apprentices Brian Laine, Kyle Spruill and Seth Schlosser; and Outside Machinist Joey Sanders.
11 FIRST TIME QUALITY AND SCHEDULE _ Shipfitter Apprentice Calvin Warner was recognized for his commitment to first time quality and schedule during a special rotation with the Non-Nuclear Inspection department. Special rotations afford apprentices the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the shipbuilding value stream and develop their leadership skills outside their shipbuilding discipline. Within one week of beginning the rotation, Warner was performing inspections with limited supervision, ultimately increasing the efficiency of work packages. For his dedication and diligence in performing inspections, Warner received a Quality Coin from Director, Quality Control, Tom Chamberlain and Manager, Test Inspection, Ray Butler.
ROOSEVELT OVERHAUL _ For their contributions to the overhaul of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), Pipefitter Craft Instructor Mike Nelson and Electrician Craft Instructor Joe Wetzler (right) were recognized by the Carrier Overhaul Management Team as Rough Riders, a weekly recognition reserved for the highest performing supervisor in Carrier Overhaul. Nelson’s outstanding work in the outfitting and deck machinery areas contributed to the ship’s crew move aboard effort by working the potable water system chlorination and other critical areas. Wetzler and his apprentice crew consistently delivered compartments and electrical systems ahead of schedule and below cost.
12
SHEET METAL THEORY _ Sheet Metal Worker Craft Instructor Charles Bell delivered the revised Advanced Sheet Metal Theory course. The course includes state-of-the-art sheet metal methods and procedures and was developed by Academic Instructor Jason Kinney, Sheet Metal Worker Craft Instructors Charles Bell, Nishon Carter, Jim Ledoyen and Steve Norman, Sheet Metal General Foreman Tim House and Training Developer Shirley Martin.
13
MAGNETIC PARTICLE AND VISUAL TESTING _ Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Apprentice Gary Garner earned qualifications in Magnetic Particle and Visual Testing to travel with a team providing NDT services for New Hampshire’s Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNS). Additionally, Garner gained experience training other inspectors. Team members received Quality Coins for their significant contributions at PNS.
NEW TRADE THEORY COURSES _ Heavy Metal Fabricator Craft Instructor Justin Fisher (center), pictured with Heavy Metal Fabricator Apprentices Randy Brown (far left) and John Fennell (far right), successfully piloted Fundamentals of Fabrication, one of The Apprentice School’s latest trade theory course offerings. Fisher developed the course with Heavy Metal Fabrication General Foreman Scott Dye in 2012. The course examines all operations of the Fabrication Shop, including the safety requirements of all equipment used to fabricate material and the product value stream.
14
VICE PRESIDENT’S SAFETY AWARD _ Foundry Craft Instructor Steve Robertson (back row, far left) was among 12 recipients of the Vice President’s Safety Award. Andy Green, vice president, Component Fabrication and Assembly (CFA), presented the award to Robertson during a September 2013 breakfast banquet. In addition to Green and his staff, CFA managers, shop superintendents, shop foremen and award recipients attended the event. Nominated by Kent Price, superintendent, Foundry, Robertson was recognized for his unflagging commitment to apprentice safety. November 2013 marked the third consecutive accident-free and injuryfree year of the Foundry’s molder apprenticeship program.
SURFACE PREPARATION & TREATMENT _ Coatings Specialist Apprentice Matt Gular was selected for a special rotation to support the Surface Preparation & Treatment department’s work on the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78). During the special rotation, Gular researched service requests before assigning them to foremen. Gular’s efforts during the rotation contributed to a 50 percent decrease in the number of unassigned service requests and enabled foremen to better manage and resolve service requests grouped by location.
15
ON-THE-SPOT ETHICS AWARD _ Molder Apprentices Shanae Hilliard and Ezra Hite were recipients of an On-The-Spot Ethics Award for personal pride in their craft and consistent adherence to company policies and procedures. Because their fellow molder apprentices nominated Hilliard and Hite for the award, it is especially meaningful. The award was presented by Calvin Boyd Sr., manager, Office Services, and Ethics & Business Conduct Committee member. Vince Warren, manager, Craft Training; Kent Price, superintendent, Foundry; and Brian Dvorak, general foreman, Foundry, also attended the award presentation.
16
PATTERNMAKER PROGRAM _ Patternmaker Tim Owens (left) is the first graduate of The Apprentice School’s patternmaker registered apprenticeship program since 1983. After a 30-year hiatus, the patternmaker program was reestablished in 2010 to help Newport News Shipbuilding meet customer demands and support the construction of two Virginia-class submarines per year. Patternmaker Craft Instructor Brent Rollins was instrumental in the reestablishment of the program and has 39 years’ shipbuilding experience, including 31 years in the Pattern Shop.
17
W
hile researching The Apprentice School online, I immediately recognized its value. As a graduate of a traditional four-year school, the opportunity
to gain knowledge and experience in a shipbuilding trade was too great to pass up. Plus, I was a deck electrician before I applied to the school, so I had the opportunity to work with apprentices on the waterfront and witness their transition from worker to lead mechanic and lead mechanic to foreman. This reinforced the value of all the opportunities available to apprentices. Phillip Riddick Jr. Electrician Apprentice
TEMPORARY SHIELDING TEAM _ Shipfitter Apprentices Aaron Beckett (not pictured), Nick Foor (not pictured), Alvin Goodwyn (left) and Tu Tran were selected to work with the Temporary Shielding Team to support the inactivation of the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) aircraft carrier. Based on their record of outstanding craftsmanship, they were selected to serve on the team alongside more seasoned shipfitters. During the long-term assignment, the team covered all nuclear piping inside the aircraft carrier’s reactors to reduce radiation exposure during the inactivation process.
18
W
hat I like best about my work at The Apprentice School is the dedication of administrators, faculty and staff to continuous improvement. Because
professional development is encouraged and I enjoy teaching, I am able to experiment with ways to enhance my instruction. Visiting the different shipbuilding trades on the waterfront and seeing the hard work of apprentices as they apply the leadership lessons learned in the classroom excites me and affirms my commitment to education and developing future company leaders. Joann Shuder Academic Instructor
SAFETY RECOGNITION LUNCHEON _ A Chick-fil-A Safety Recognition Luncheon was held for Insulator Craft Instructor Kim Jordan-Dillard (second row, far right) and her crew to celebrate their more than 365 days without an accident. Because her crew experiences frequent changes as new apprentices join the crew and more experienced apprentices leave, Jordan-Dillard speaks daily about Recognizing, Evaluating and Controlling (REC) hazards in the work environment to encourage crew members to anticipate and correct hazards before they contribute to an accident or injury.
19
DEFECT-FREE WELDS _ Welder Apprentices Christopher Scaife and Jered Wright (left to right) were selected to weld critical joints for the Virginiaclass submarine (VCS) John Warner (SSN 785). The welds performed by Scaife and Wright are considered to be some of the most difficult and most critical in the VCS program. This was Scaife’s first job of this type for the VCS program and Wright’s second. The first section Wright welded was defect-free.
20
SUMMER BLITZ _ The summer months typically coincide with increase in workplace injuries, so The Apprentice School staged the Summer Blitz, an initiative to promote workplace safety and significantly reduce injuries to apprentices. The collective efforts of craft instructors, foremen, general foremen and apprentices reduced the number of recordable injuries by 40 percent during June, July and August, making 2013 the school’s third consecutive year of significant injury reduction.
W
hen I began my apprenticeship as a welder apprentice in 2007, The Apprentice School offered many activities that interested me. I played
football and joined the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME). My time volunteering for the SNAME boat design competition helped me realize the career path I wanted to take. After graduation, I accepted a craft instructor position. I enjoy showing apprentices different ways to complete jobs and appreciate the role I play in their development as leaders and members of a highly skilled workforce. Andrew Balarabe Welder Craft Instructor Class of 2010
21
2013 TIGER TEAM TRIP _ Coatings Specialist Apprentice Steven McDonald traveled to Groton, Conn., to participate in a January 2013 Tiger Team trip, providing fleet support services for the Los Angeles-class submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768). The experience offered McDonald an additional opportunity to test the knowledge and skills developed during his apprenticeship. While a member of the Tiger Team, McDonald said his belief that shipbuilders are a true team was further reinforced by their commitment to the common goal of first time quality.
CVN 71 SEA TRIALS _ Several apprentices and craft instructors received the one-time opportunity to participate in the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) sea trials. Among the many shipbuilders who tested ship systems replaced during the aircraft carrier’s refueling and overhaul were (left to right) Pipefitter Craft Instructor Mike Nelson; Electrician Craft Instructor Joe Wetzler; Outside Machinist Craft Instructor William Burton; Director, General Manufacturing, Dan Klemencic; Construction Supervisor Ed Spruill; and Outside Machinist Josh Baker. After the successful completion of the sea trials, the aircraft carrier was redelivered to the U.S. Navy in August 2013.
22 Scholarship EXPLORATORY SATURDAY _ Advanced Programs Craft Instructor Rick Burgos (not pictured), (left to right) Maintenance Electrician Craft Instructor Kevin Bond and Maintenance Electrician Apprentices Jessica Dunlap and Brittanie Herriott participated in the Feb. 23 Exploratory Saturday sponsored by the Greater Peninsula Governor’s STEM Academy. The day’s event introduced seventh- and eighthgraders to electrical system design and built confidence in their ability to succeed in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers. The team from The Apprentice School shared the STEM career opportunities offered by The Apprentice School and Newport News Shipbuilding and discussed how the school’s academic and craft training build upon middle and high school STEM courses.
YOUTH VOLUNTEER CORPS _ Advanced Programs Craft Instructor Rick Burgos and Counselor Katie Morgan led a team of Dozier Middle School students at the Youth Volunteer Corps of Hampton Roads’ Canstructure Contest. The theme of the competition was “Discovering Worlds through Literature,” and the Dozier team collected more than 1,000 canned goods to construct seven-foot tall sculptures of the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben, representing Paris and London from “A Tale of Two Cities.” A monetary donation from The Apprentice School Student Association and all canned goods collected for the contest were donated to the Foodbank of the Virginia Peninsula.
23
BOAT DESIGN COMPETITION _ The Apprentice School Student Section of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) hosted the 6th Annual Boat Design Competition. More than 25 high school teams from Virginia and North Carolina entered the competition. Representatives from the University of Michigan and Webb Institute narrowed the field of entries to 12. Judges from Newport News Shipbuilding named the four finalists—teams from York High School, in Yorktown, Va., and Jamestown High School, in Williamsburg, Va.—whose boats were constructed by apprentices and raced in Lake Maury, at The Mariners’ Museum. Team Deck Hands, representing York High School, won the competition.
A
ll of our efforts at The Apprentice School are focused on molding new apprentices into highly skilled craftsmen and sought-after leaders. Many
apprentices begin our program with little to no skills in a shipbuilding trade, and during four years, they are developed into skilled mechanics and leaders worth their weight in gold. When I sit in the audience at graduation and see these shipbuilders walk across the stage, I can’t help but be proud of their accomplishment and excited for their future. Will Prescott Lead Craft Instructor Class of 2005
24
ROBOTICS COMPETITION _ For the seventh year, The Apprentice School supported Phoebus High School’s robotics team in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Maintenance Electrician Craft Instructor Kevin Bond and PC Applications Trainer Chris Brown (not pictured) mentored the Phantom Mentalists during the 2013 competition. More than 2,500 teams competed, and the Phantom Mentalists placed 45th in local and 23rd in regional contests.
JOB SHADOWING PROGRAM _ Heavy Metal Fabricator Apprentice Josh Stachura and the unexpected course his future took during his participation in Newport News Shipbuilding’s Career Pathways program were profiled in a November 2013 Daily Press article. When he was selected for Career Pathways’ week-long job shadowing program, Stachura was planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree after his high school graduation. However, his experience shadowing shipbuilders working in the company’s modeling and simulation department changed his mind. Stachura realized the good fit the school would be for his technical and mechanical aptitude and learned of the opportunities available to apprentices.
25
T
hroughout my apprenticeship I have learned that you do not have to have people working for you to be a leader. Leadership is a set of actions, not
a job title. Leadership is having integrity to do the right thing when no one is looking. Leadership is having concern for your coworkers and company to stop someone if you see them doing something unsafe. Leadership is doing what is right and hoping that people will follow suit. Kasey Miller Nuclear Test Technician Apprentice
CAREER PATHWAYS LUNCHEON _ Newport News Shipbuilding’s Career Pathways held a June 2013 luncheon to recognize the contributions of program volunteers. Many members of The Apprentice School community actively support Career Pathways by tutoring and mentoring Hampton Roads public school students. Among those recognized were school administrators and staff Marci Bombelyn, Everett Jordan, Sally Krystyn, Regina McLean, Keisha Pexton, Mark Tomlin and Vince Warren; instructors Rick Burgos, Nishon Carter, Kimberly Jordan-Dillard, Jennifer Ryan and Bruce White; and apprentices Christina Butler (right), Marquis Ellsworth, Elise Feldt, Brenden Frazier, Ashley Gilliam (left), Timothy Owens, Anthony Riddle, Seth Thayer and Jacob Thornton (center).
26
TRIPLE S: SAFETY SENSE SPEECH _ Sheet Metal Worker Craft Instructor Steve Norman developed the Triple S: Safety Sense Speech and writing assignment, a pair of activities to promote safety while improving apprentices’ critical thinking and communication skills. Sheet metal worker apprentices present information to their crew about safety precautions and environmental hazards related to job assignments and complete a weekly writing assignment to increase awareness of safety and best work practices. The activities support the school’s Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) program by reinforcing the connection between effective communication and workplace safety.
PAPER PRESENTATION _ Russ Shaffer, engineer, Platform Intergration and Concept of Operations, and Chris Mook (pictured), modeling and simulation program analyst apprentice, co-authored and presented a paper, entitled Simulation-Based Adaptive Decision Support in a Shipyard Environment, during the 2013 MODSIM World Conference in Hampton, Va. The paper and presentation were based on the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) hull and tank model, which Mook supported during its primary deployment.
27
BLACK ENGINEER OF THE YEAR _ Marine Designer Apprentice Ashley Gilliam (left), pictured with Advanced Programs Craft Instructor Bruce White, attended the 2013 Black Engineers of the Year Award (BEYA) STEM conference in Washington, D.C. Gilliam was chosen to attend the conference for her active involvement in Career Pathways, a mentoring and career exploration partnership between Newport News Shipbuilding and Hampton Roads public schools. She served on a six-member team from Newport News Shipbuilding to conduct a logic and critical thinking workshop offered during the conference for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
FACULTY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR _ Academic Instructor Jennifer Ryan was named 2013 Faculty Advisor of the Year by the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME). Ryan has a long history of active involvement in SNAME, first while a student at Webb Institute and now as the faculty advisor for The Apprentice School’s Student Section of SNAME. The award was presented to Ryan during SNAME’s Nov. 8 annual meeting. SNAME members and school representatives traveled to Bellevue, Wash., to participate in the annual meeting and conference proceedings and watch Ryan accept the award.
28 Alumni Highlights
CLASS OF 1963 ALUMNI BANQUET _ The Apprentice School’s Class of 1963 was honored by the Apprentice Alumni Association during a Feb. 8 banquet. The event, held at the Newport News Marriott at City Center, celebrated the 50-year reunion of the Class of 1963. Also recognized during the program were Sheet Metal Foreman Greg Hoefflin and Construction Supervisor Micah Meeks, 2012 alumni, for their receipt of the Virginia Apprenticeship Council’s Outstanding Apprentice Award and the school’s Homer L. Ferguson Award, respectively.
29
CHILDREN’S FISHING CLINIC _ The Apprentice Alumni Association’s 18th Annual Children’s Fishing Clinic was held July 20. Hampton Roadsarea children enjoyed a day of fishing on the James River with their shipbuilder mentors. Two hundred children participated, and approximately 50 apprentices and alumni supported the event by teaching the young fishermen to bait hooks and cast lines.
CRAB FEAST _ Alumni, their friends and their family gathered July 19 for the annual Apprentice Alumni Association Crab Feast. During the event, Bob Drury (left), Crab Feast event chair and manager, Design Lofting, presented a donation of $250 and 130 pounds of canned goods to Donna Tighe, food drive coordinator at the Foodbank of the Virginia Peninsula.
30 Leadership
GO RED FOR WOMEN _ A Feb. 7 “Go Red for Women” event, hosted by Women in Shipbuilding Enterprise (WiSE), promoted American Heart Month and increased women’s awareness of heart disease. The topic is of personal significance to Electrician Craft Instructor and WiSE Vice Chairperson Linda McMillian (pictured), who helped organize the event. During the event, she shared how heart disease has affected her family and emphasized the importance of prevention.
W
hile a student at Thomas Nelson Community College, I first learned of The Apprentice School from my classmates who were apprentices. The
Apprentice School has taught me that engaging in my goals and following through with them will take me a long way. I have learned the many forms leadership can take and apply these lessons by helping others with their struggles in the classroom, on the job and in the gym. At the same time, I learn from their strengths. Tyrell Watkins Rigger Apprentice and Wrestler
31
LEGO COMPETITION JUDGE _ Dimensional Control Craft Instructor Melissa Wheeler judged the Virginia Ship Repair Association’s 7th Annual LEGO Competition semifinals at The Mariners’ Museum. Tasked with designing a solution to a shipbuilding problem, teams developed a formal design proposal and delivered a presentation, both of which were judged for content, design, cost and presentation. Warwick River Christian School, in Newport News, Va., won the competition and $500 to be used by the school for a math- or science-related project.
32 LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE _ Twenty-one Advanced Shipyard Operations Curriculum (ASOC) apprentices developed their leadership styles during The Apprentice School Leadership Experience at the College of William & Mary. William & Mary business and history professors led apprentices in a multi-faceted examination of leadership, and Huntington Ingalls Industries President and Chief Executive Officer Mike Petters (front row, far left) and Newport News Shipbuilding’s Director, Programs, Jerome Thomas shared their leadership principles with the group. The weeklong experience culminated in a brief to Newport News Shipbuilding Vice President, Operations, Danny Hunley (fifth row, fourth from left), the course’s sponsor.
33
CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA _ The Apprentice School’s student chapter of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) held its 6th Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta on Aug. 17. BayPort Credit Union, SME Chapter 217 and The Apprentice School sponsored the event that raised $2,500 for the Khedive Shrine Hospital Patient Transportation Fund and Shriners Hospitals for Children. Eight teams competed in four single and crew races, and the school’s cheer team and drumline supported the event Melissa Wheeler (holding check, left), dimensional control craft instructor and the school’s SME chapter advisor, and Angel Averett (holding check, right), nuclear design apprentice and chapter secretary, presented the donation during the Oct. 26 football game against Edward Waters College.
B
eing an apprentice is not just about academics and on-the-job training. I volunteer at events
through The Apprentice School Student Association (ASSA), and my husband and children volunteer with me. Contributing to the community as a family strengthens our bond and teaches my children how to be a good friend and mindful of others. Without my apprenticeship, I never would have become the person I am today. The program has bettered my life, and the life of my family, in ways I never would have imagined. Dawn Hardister Planner Apprentice and ASSA Vice President
34
E
ach year during graduation, my job is to make sure students are lined up properly as they walk onstage to receive their certificates. As simple
as this may sound, it’s quite an extraordinary experience. There are no conversations, only a brief moment with apprentices as they walk by. I get to make eye contact with them right before they feel what it’s like to transition from “overwhelming future goal” to the celebration of “proudly achieved goal.” It’s quite surreal and very rewarding. Jason Kinney Academic Instructor Class of 2006
RINGING THE BELL _ After receiving his certificate of apprenticeship, Jovan McCamey, rigger graduate, rings The Apprentice School bell to mark the completion of his apprenticeship. McCamey was among the 206 members of the Class of 2012.
35
HOMER L. FERGUSON AWARD _ Micah Meeks, electrician graduate, received the Homer L. Ferguson Award. Named for the founder of The Apprentice School, the distinction is earned by the graduate with the highest combined craft and required academics grade point average. As the award recipient, Meeks delivered the valedictory address, reminding apprentices and alumni of the significance of their contributions to national defense.
36
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS _ Retired Admiral Tim Keating delivered the commencement address, during which he described apprentice graduates as the country’s “secret weapon” for their contributions to the construction and maintenance of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines.
37
GRADUATION HONORS _ In addition to certificates of apprenticeship, a variety of honors and awards were presented, including the Frank F. Satchell Jr. Outstanding Faculty Award to Supervising Academic Instructor Alicia Uzzle. After the commencement ceremony, members of the Class of 2012 exited Liberty Baptist Church Worship Center, in Hampton, Va., where commencement exercises were held.
O
ur machinists must be ready to run these machines as
soon as they graduate. While it is a challenge to train an apprentice to be a machinist in two and a half years, learn Computer Numerical Control machine controls in a year and put it all together by the fourth year, it is a challenge The Apprentice School meets. When it is time to rotate my apprentices out onto the shop floor, I enjoy watching them continue to learn, grow and be successful. Nick Perry Machinist Craft Instructor Class of 2009
38
2012-13 MEN’S BASKETBALLL_ The men’s basketball team qualified for the 2013 U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association National Championships and went 1-1 in the event. They finished the 2012-13 season with a 17-10 record. Rigger Apprentice Tevin Andrews was named Apprentice School Athlete of the Year and was selected for the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association AllAmerican team.
2012-13 WOMEN’S BASKETBALLL_ The women’s basketball team finished the year with a 1213 record and scored wins against U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association National Tournament qualifiers Briarcliffe College, Berkeley College, Penn State Fayette and Virginia University of Lynchburg. Rigger Apprentice Danita Whitaker was named to the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association Second Team AllAmerican squad.
39
2012-13 WRESTLING_ Four wrestlers finished with a 12-8 dual match record and earned National Collegiate Wrestling Association All-American honors. Heavy Metal Fabricator Apprentice Ian Jones (not pictured) went an impressive 41-4 to lead the team in wins, and Machinist Apprentice Philip Porto (not pictured) had 36 wins. The team won the Builder Invitational and the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association National Invitational titles.
2013 GOLF_ The golf team ended its 2013 season with a solid showing, finishing sixth at the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association National Championships. Rigger Apprentice Ben Hunter (center) earned his second U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association Individual National Championship honor with a win in a playoff. Coatings Specialist Apprentice Kyle Mutter finished 10th and earned second team honors.
40
2013 BASEBALL_ The baseball team set a school record as they finished 34-10 and took third place at the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association Small College World Series. They scored a win over nationally-ranked Bridgewater College and had winning streaks of eight and seven games. Ten players earned U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association honors and three were up for Academic All-American honors through the College Sports Information Directors Association.
2013 FOOTBALL_ Six players earned All-U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association honors. Electrician Apprentice Brock Bullock (not pictured) set the school single-game, season and career tackle records and was a finalist for the Willie Lanier Award, an honor given to the top non-National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I player in Virginia.
41
M
y apprenticeship is preparing me to meet my
educational and career goals. My academic coursework has contributed to the development of my leadership skills and is guiding my footsteps to reach my goal of a Master of Business Administration. I am able to use the values and lessons learned as I work with important ship systems and as a leader on the basketball team. My apprenticeship is opening a vast number of opportunities to become a major contributor to the success of Newport
2013 CHEER/DRUMLINE_ The cheer team and drumline were frequent participants in many athletic and company activities in 2013. They helped provide spirit during christenings, football games, basketball games, parades and the dedication of the new Apprentice School building.
News Shipbuilding. Zachary Zastrow Pipefitter Apprentice and Basketball Player
42 F r o n t l i n e FA S T
PROGRAM PURPOSES _ Frontline Foreman Accelerated Skills Training (FAST) is an intensely focused training plan dedicated to producing an elite pool of Apprentice School alumni, graduates who possess the desire, aptitude and skill set to be frontline foremen at Newport News Shipbuilding. Program participants complete approximately 15 months of training that runs concurrently with academic coursework and craft training. Training opportunities include special job rotations, trade- and projectspecific foreman training classes, mentoring in critical foreman skills and competencies, a 15-week management development seminar and makeup foreman experience.
P
articipating in Frontline FAST has been the most memorable aspect of my apprenticeship. I remember anxiously awaiting the results of my Frontline
FAST application. That week felt like years. But when I finally received the offer to participate in the program, I was overjoyed. This frontline supervision training program is precisely the type of mentorship and education I expected to obtain from The Apprentice School. There is nothing better than getting exactly what you had hoped for. Eboni Duck Insulator Apprentice
RATED SK ELE ILL C S AC
L
E
O
T
H
ING AIN TR
FOREM AN
43
AP
H P R E N TI C E S C
O
THE APPRENTICE SCHOOL
F O R E M A N A C C E L E R AT E D S K I L L S T R A I N I N G
SELECTION CRITERIA _ Apprentices with approximately two years’ waterfront experience and excellent conduct and attendance, grade point averages and supervisor recommendations comprise the inaugural Frontline FAST cohort. Program participants were selected for their capability to effectively manage work, exhibit company values and commitments and lead their people to safely engage in quality work. Frontline FAST exemplifies The Apprentice School’s commitment to developing alumni who are competent, educated and ready to lead.
44 New Facility
THE NEW APPRENTICE SCHOOL_ Speakers at the event, including (left to right) U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott; President and CEO, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Mike Petters; President and CEO, Armada Hoffler Holding Co., Lou Haddad; Newport News Mayor McKinley Price; Vice President, Operations, Newport News Shipbuilding, Danny Hunley; Virginia Delegate Chris Jones; President, Newport News Shipbuilding, Matt Mulherin; and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, pose next to the sculpture after its unveiling.
Director, Education, Everett Jordan unveils the bronze sculpture commissioned by the school at the end of the Dec. 6 grand opening. The public artwork was cast using the lost wax bronze process by sculptor David H. Turner in his foundry, located in the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
45
A view of The Apprentice School at dusk, captured the evening of the faculty and staff open house, conveys the facility’s sleek, modern feel. The development includes the school’s instructional, lab and office spaces, a student center and a gymnasium and workforce housing, retail space and a parking garage.
Engineer Pat Krystyn and Manager, Product Training, Dave Tilman, both alumni of The Apprentice School, admire the school’s mace during a special faculty and staff open house at the new facility. The mace, crafted by patternmaker and sheet metal apprentices, will be carried during commencement exercises by the recipient of the Frank F. Satchell Jr. Outstanding Faculty Award.
Attendees at the faculty and staff open house view the inlaid traditional logo featured in the lobby of the school’s new 92,000-square-foot facility. The logo is a reminder of the import of the work of shipbuilders and the steadfast tradition of training the head, hand and heart found at The Apprentice School.
The Apprentice School 4101 Washington Avenue Newport News, VA 23607 www.as.edu www.gobuilders.com Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education www.council.org