DON'T MISS: EYE ON INNOVATION & ROBOTIC SUB-COMMITTEE
SERVICE TO THE FLEET Norfolk Naval Shipyard
We Are America's Shipyard
March 2016
SHIPYARD SPOTLIGHT APRIL DOTSON
NNSY PARTICIPATES IN SOLID CURTAIN - CITADEL SHIELD COVER PHOTO BY LUKE BEASLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER
ALSO INSIDE: PORTSMOUTH CLEAN-UP & BIG ROCKS
Table of Contents
IN THIS ISSUE 20
features: 4 FROM THE COMMANDER
Leadership at America's Shipyard
5 CHANGE STARTS WITH ME A new series focusing on LO
6 FROM THE MASTER CHIEF
Welcoming a new season to America's Shipyard
7 CPO 365
NNSY Sailors Clean Up City of Portsmouth
10 SHOP 26 SHAFT WELD
NNSY Welders and Engineers Demonstrate Continued Performance Excellence and Cost Savings
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14 ACCELERATE THE CHANGE
Robotics Sub-Committee Making Strides with Innovative Technology
16 ACTIVE SHOOTER
NNSY Participates in Solid CurtainCitadel Shield 2016
18 SHIPYARD SPOTLIGHT
April Dotson, Temporary Services NonNuclear Training Coordinator
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20 BIG ROCKS
NNSY Holds Big Rocks Ceremony with Rear Adm. Mark Whitney
22 SO LONG, MARYLAND
NNSY Completes USS Maryland ERO
23 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government
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VOLUME 78 • NUMBER 10 SHIPYARD COMMANDER Captain Scott Brown DEPUTY COMMANDER Captain Brian Lepine COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM (AW/SW) Michael Reese PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER Terri Davis
Service to the Fleet
AMERICA'S SHIPYARD SHUTTLE SERVICE The new Shipyard Shuttle Service transports personnel to and from buildings at both ends of the shipyard.
EDITOR Anna Taylor
As this is a new service for the installation, there may be a few growing pains with timing and pick-up points. We ask that you have some patience as the drivers gain experience during the coming weeks.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS STAFF Michael Brayshaw, Kristi Britt, April Brown, Floyd Logan, Troy Miller, Curtis Steward, Jennifer Zingalie
To request a copy of the shuttle service route map, please call the Public Affairs Office at 396-9550.
E-MAIL THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE nfsh_nnsy_pao@navy.mil EMPLOYEE INFORMATION HOTLINE (757) 396-9551 FRAUD, WASTE & ABUSE HOTLINE (757) 396-7971 SHIPYARD RADIO ADVISORY 1630 AM SERVICE TO THE FLEET is a Department of Defense publication and is authorized for members of the DOD. Contents of Service to the Fleet are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Service to the Fleet is published monthly. Submissions are due on the 10th of each month. The public affairs staff reserves the right to edit submissions for content and brevity.
AVAILABLE: Monday through Friday, 0500-1700
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WHO CAN RIDE? Civilians, Military, and Contractors
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/NNSYNews WATCH VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE www.youtube.com/NNSYBroadcast VISIT THE NNSY HISTORY BLOG www.nnsyhistorymatters.blogspot.com
SCHEDULE: The shuttles are continuously on the move and wait times should be less than 15 minutes. STOPS: There are 21 stops across the installation. All stops are marked with an America’s Shipyard logo sign next to the road.
READ STTF ONLINE www.issuu.com/nnsy MARCH 2016 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 3
From the Commander: CAPTAIN SCOTT BROWN
Leadership in America's Shipyard
"Leadership means providing a vision for success and facilitating the attainment of goals on the way to that success. We are well on our way, but we will only be successful by engaging and pushing the limits."
The next several issues of Service to the Fleet will highlight our five strategic focus areas. Our “Accelerate the Change” rally call for 2016 is one step on the way to reaching our vision to lead the NAVSEA Corporation in safety, performance, and innovation. We have already accomplished so much that I am considering upping the game. Should we drive even higher to reach status as the premier production organization in the world? Gen. George S. Patton had a unique and effective leadership style. He said, “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity." This concept is at the heart of our “Accelerate the Change” rally call. I need all hands engaged and we need your ingenuity to improve the “how” of what we do. Our first strategic focus area is leadership. Our focus in this area has been
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on the Production Resources Department (Code 900). Last year, we began a formal organizational restructure to create three major divisions within the department - Production Department Manager (Code 901) leading the Group Superintendents; Production Resources Manager (900B) leading our focus in workforce development and training management; and Facilities Manager (900F) leading our efforts to improve our facility and infrastructure conditions. We will finish the formal restructuring this year, providing Code 900 the proper bandwidth to establish and maintain our “world-class” status as the premier shipyard in the world. Last year, we also focused our leadership attention on daily production planning to ensure that we start all jobs prepared and aligned with all necessary codes. As a result, we have seen dramatic improvement in our work coordination and first time quality. Finally, in FY15 we established stretch goals to significantly improve the safety posture for services in our dry docks, setting the bar high to maintain all dry dock services above the dry dock floor. In 2016, our primary focus in the leadership strategic area combines and aligns the efforts of Code 900, Code 300 (Operations), and Code 300N (Nuclear Production) to focus our attention on personnel management and project management. By understanding and holding ourselves accountable to the corporate practices and metrics for project management, we will reach the next level of execution excellence. We’ve already seen the results of strict adherence to project management fundamentals. USS Maryland (SSBN-738) achieved one of our 2016 “Big Rocks” last month by completing its Engineered Refueling Overhaul (ERO), setting corporate records in work completion and testing aboard an SSBN. In the words of NAVSEA Commander, Vice Adm. William Hilarides, NNSY’s end game test program “absolutely obliterated the previous best.” The Maryland project’s leadership team was strong and focused on planning, communication and coordination. The team held itself to high standards during an extensive and challenging
ERO; as a result, we returned this vital asset to the fleet so it can support the most pressing priority of the Department of Defense as an active nuclear deterrent. I signed out my Standing Order #2 last month detailing our operational plan to dramatically reduce injuries in NNSY. This plan requires my notification within 24 hours of any injury, and a follow-up notification within 48 hours by the applicable line manger regarding the causes of the injury and plan to prevent recurrence. This swarming process engages the supervisor, department safety representative, and Safety Division within Code 106 in all injury investigations. We are already seeing injury rate reductions, but we have a long way to go reach our goal, “Nobody gets hurt today.” Any injury is one too many. I need all hands engaged to look out for each other, hold high cleanliness and safety standards, and think ahead regarding your work and travel throughout NNSY. Regarding base traffic safety, we installed a solar-paneled yield and stop sign on Berrien Street near Gate 10. We will be installing 20 more solar-powered yield and yield/stop combination signs in key locations throughout the base during the next few weeks. We are also increasing the number of crosswalks, re-painting faded cross walks, and adding lighting in areas of particular need. Lead the way in keeping yourself and your fellow shipyarders safe while driving around the base, and always cross at designated crosswalks. Leadership means providing a vision for success and facilitating the attainment of goals on the way to that success. We are well on our way, but we will only be successful by engaging and pushing the limits. We are Norfolk Naval Shipyard. We are America’s Shipyard.
Capt. Scott Brown Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s 107th Commander
CHANGE STARTS WITH ME A Learning Organization (LO) is not a medal to win. It is a journey to develop into the best organization we can be. The LO principles are the tools we use to promote positive change. Organizational change starts with individual change. A new LO series in Service to the Fleet will explore barriers and spotlight teams and individuals who are front-runners in our LO journey. These people have accepted the challenge and understand "Change Starts with Me." 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
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ACTIVE LEARNING CELLS
Code 930 Tooling Funding and Tasking Disciplinary/Pre-Action Process Improve Engineering and Production Alignment for Sea Valves Critical Manual Review Process Removal of Propeller Security Covers at UD00 Close Tolerance Rigging Job Summary/Exposure Reduction E-CoP Ford-Class Sub Team Problem Area Targeting
LO: A PLACE WHERE WE ARE LEARNING INDIVIDUALLY AND TOGETHER TO CREATE RESULTS.
117
An LO Facilitator is an individual skilled in the five disciplines (practitioner) who is able to create and encourage a safe learning environment. LO Facilitators require basic facilitation skills, the ability to identify LO behaviors, and competence in behavior modification and influence.
6,141
LEARNING ORGANIZATION FACILITATORS
Total number of current employees who have taken LO training (about 61 percent).
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193
Active Communities of Practice (CoP)
Number of employees who have attended LO in 2016.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Electrical Mechanical Welding Facilities Cleanliness Technology and Innovation
THE LO101 COURSE IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE THE UNDERSTANDING AND APPLICATION OF THE FIVE DISCIPLINES OF LO.
LO101 is offered 24 times a year the FIVE DISCIPLINES PERSONAL MASTERY
Realizing what you truly want in life, and aligning your efforts to make it happen.
MENTAL MODELS
How we perceive things based on our past experiences.
SYSTEMS THINKING
An understanding of the "big picture" and how our work relates to it.
SHARED VISION
TEAM LEARNING
Learning as a team to achieve Identifying shared a common goal by utilizing ideals for the future to open dialogue and discussion. achieve a goal.
From the Deckplate: COMMAND MASTER CHIEF MICHAEL REESE
Welcoming Spring to America's Shipyard
"Smart nutrition is about making food choices that produce a positive, rather than negative, impact. Making smart food choices can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk for a number of diseases, and even strengthen your immune system."
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Well, it has definitely been an interesting winter so far, but hold on, spring is coming! You heard right, the first day of spring is March 20th! And just one week before that we spring forward to daylight saving time! This is a great time of the year when nature starts to come alive again! But spring is not the only thing happening in March, there is plenty more going on at America's Shipyard. In the month of March we recognize Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is "Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government." The theme for 2016 honors women who have shaped America's history and its future through their public service and government leadership. From championing basic human rights to ensuring access and equal opportunity for all Americans, women have led the way in establishing a stronger and more democratic country. Visit the Women's History Project website at www. nwhp.org for more information about this year's honorees. March is also National Nutrition Month. Nutrition can have a big impact on your overall health. Smart nutrition is about making food choices that produce a positive, rather than negative, impact. In fact, making smart food choices can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk for a number of diseases, and even strengthen your immune system. As I said earlier this year, let’s all make an effort to focus on our well-being, “Eat to live, don't live to eat” and make a difference.
Speaking of making a difference, and in conjunction with the Shipyard Commander's theme of Leadership, I would like to take time to recognize a few Sailors here at the shipyard. Their everyday work performance and leadership were directly responsible for their selection as our 2016 first quarter award winners, and they are: Sailor of the Quarter, MM1 (SW/AW) Justin Newsom; Junior Sailor of the Quarter, MA2 (SW) Sarah Futrell; and Blue Jacket of the Quarter, MMFN Joseph Bosko. All three of these Sailors went above and beyond the call of duty and their professionalism and devotion to duty reflected credit upon themselves and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval service and will represent our shipyard with Pride – Hooyah shipmates! Lastly, I would like to say happy birthday to both my mom Shirley and father-in-law Paul! You are both an inspiration to me and have shown me and my family what true leadership is all about! Keep up the great work, America’s Shipyard! As always, it is an honor to be in the Navy and a great time to be a part of America’s Shipyard! – CMC Sends
Mike Reese Command Master Chief
NNSY Sailors Clean Up City of Portsmouth BY JENNIFER ZINGALIE • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY LUKE BEASLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Sailors participating in the Navy-wide CPO 365 Program organized a local community service project Feb. 3 at recreation centers and museums throughout the city of Portsmouth, Va. Nineteen first class and chief petty officers worked side-by-side beautifying four of the city’s recreation centers, used by local children and families, and also helped to clean and organize two museums, which provide cultural enrichment to the community. “The Navy has been so good about volunteering during my tenure in Portsmouth,” said Nancy Perry, the Director of Portsmouth Museums. “Our staff is small and the Navy support is critical for us. In addition, there has always been great support from the civilian staff at the naval shipyard for activities related to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum.” Ship’s Serviceman 1st Class Lachanel Salinas, one of the event coordinators said, “I believe things like this help establish trust between the shipyard and the city. It enables them to see there is more to us then just ships out at sea conducting missions or shooting missiles.”
Salinas is also in charge of coordinating events for CPO 365, which is a training program established by the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) in 2012, and serves to prepare first class petty officers for their selection and grooming to become future chief petty officers. “I try to come up with events that bring people together because it helps support the mission of the shipyard,” said Salinas. “Once you establish a good relationship between the first class association and the chief ’s mess it helps with communication and getting things done.” Salinas said she hoped serving in these events helps the Sailors gain a sense of camaraderie, “I hope it’s motivating and they will get eager to help more,” she said. “Next time I plan to invite our junior Sailors.” Master at Arms 1st Class Tonaj Reynolds, who serves as the NNSY volunteer coordinator and helped Salinas coordinate the event, added, “As chief petty officers in training, we need to make things like this a priority to be an example to our junior Sailors.” In the past, NNSY Sailors have served in various ways throughout the city to include painting and installation of Portsmouth’s Winter Wonderland and Pumpkin Challenge as well as moving and assembling furniture. Many have also volunteered at the sites during events such as the Make -n-Take during the holidays. “It’s a great feeling,” said Reynolds. “We got together and did this as one team even though everyone was not physically together, NNSY we are out here doing our part.” “We look forward to our continued collaboration with the Navy,” said Perry.
Shipyard Insider: BUZZ & BYTES
» POSITIVE YARDAGE Seawater Valve Repair Norfolk Naval Shipyard's (NNSY) team of Fleet Maintenance Submarines (FMB) personnel provided an urgent, emergent repair of a seawater valve on USS Boise (SSN-764), performed at Naval Station Norfolk Jan. 29-Feb. 1, finishing a day early. According to Captain Paul Snodgrass, Commander, Submarine Squadron Six, this issue was a burden to the ship's housekeeping efforts and operations. This valve repair will significantly improve the lives for the Sailors who work hard to maintain the preservation near the ship's drain pump. Also, this repair will prevent excessive operation of the ship's drain pump and reduce the likelihood of additional maintenance. FMB Fly-Away Another team of NNSY FMB personnel travelled to Gibraltar from Jan. 20-Feb. 6 to service several components on USS Newport News (SSN-750). As the Lead Maintenance Activity, FMB coordinated support with Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC), New London Submarine Support Facility divers, and the contractor Amee Bay, LLC to repair the submarine's number one motor generator, Thin Line Towed Array (TLTA) and High Data Rate (HDR) Antenna. These efforts enabled the boat to meet all combatant commander requirements while on deployment. Congratulations Lt. Rice Congratulations to Code 300's Lt. Veronika Rice, who was presented with the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal Feb. 8 for her meritorious service as USS Maryland's (SSBN-738) Work Integration Leader and Ship Safety Officer from November 2012 to 8 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
February 2016. Among her many accomplishments in these roles, Lt. Rice overcame a number of production challenges and was able to reduce Maryland's project schedule by three weeks. Photo by Tony Anderson, NNSY Photographer. Safety Flag
Congratulations to Shop 98 of NNSY’s Lifting and Handling Department, honored with the October 2015 Safety Flag presented Feb. 1 in Building 268. Brick by Brick Congratulations to Code 2380.7's Mark Anderson who took first place in the 17+ category of the Hampton Roads Naval Museum's Fifth Annual Brick by Brick: Lego Shipbuilding Contest. Anderson created a highly detailed historical rendition of the Merrimac at Gosport Navy Yard. Photo by Diana Gordon. NAS Installation John Veal, the Electrical/ Electronics Group (Code 950) Superintendent was installed as a member of the National Association of Superintendents (NAS) during a ceremony Feb. 17. Veal, who has worked at the shipyard since 2000, credits his success to the example set by the many great leaders he has worked with at NNSY, and acknowledged he would not be the man he is today without the support of his wife and family, who were also in attendance. Shipyard Commander, Capt.
Scott Brown called Veal a tremendous asset and commended him for being a leader for both Code 950 and the entire shipyard. Tim Spitler, President of the NAS, presented Veal with a lapel pin and reflected on the responsibilities of superintendents. "As a superintendent, you wear many hats. You're a tradesman, a leader, an educator, a manager, a supervisor, and a counselor," he said. "You bridge the gap between the thoughts and the implementation, the need and its attainment...you are essential to the support of our great Nation, our great Navy, and this great shipyard, America's Shipyard." VET-ERG Flags & DVDs The Veteran Employee Readiness
Group (VET-ERG) has collected 20 flags and 173 DVDs. Flags collected are donated to the Sturtevant Funeral Home to honor fallen veterans by being draped across their caskets at the time of cremation. DVDs donated are provided to the Portsmouth Naval Hospital Wounded Warriors Transition Unit, Portsmouth Naval Hospital Fisher House, and VA Hospital in Hampton If you would like to donate flags or DVDs, send an e-mail to Rick Nelson at Richard.M.Nelson1@navy.mil.
» CYBERSECURITY To highlight the importance of good Cybersecurity hygiene, "Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Cybersecurity 101" training is now available on Total Workforce Management Services (TWMS) and counts for continuous learning credits. This one-time, one hour course is an adjunct to the DOD Cyber Awareness Challenge and is mandatory for NAVSEA personnel, with completion due no later than March 30, 2016. Log on to TWMS Self Service. If you are not prompted by the mandatory training notice which will automatically take you to the Required Training tab, scroll down to "Tools/Actions" and select the "Online Training and Notices" menu; the next screen is the "Required Training and Notices" page. Select "Available Training" and scroll down to find the "NAVSEA Cybersecurity 101" course.
» NAS
» THIS MONTH IN HISTORY
Scholarship Opportunities Scholarship opportunities are available to dependents of Norfolk Naval Shipyard employees for the upcoming academic year. The NNSY chapter of the National Association of Superintendents (NAS) will competitively award eight $500 scholarships this year: four to dependent students of employees of NNSY at large and four to dependent students of Superintendent Association members. The scholarships are intended to recognize outstanding students and applicants will be evaluated based on their academic achievements and extracurricular personal and service activities. Selectees will be presented an NAS Scholarship Certificate and a $500 check to be used for any legitimate educational expense. Applications must be handdelivered to Mike Zydron or Kendra Burghard, faxed to 3964080, or e-mailed to Kendra Burghard no later than April 15. Selected scholarship recipients will be notified no later than May 20.
March 7, 1994 The Navy issues the first orders for women to be assigned on board a combatant ship, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). March 9, 1862 In the first battle between ironclads, USS Monitor and CSS Virginia engage in close combat in Hampton Roads, Va. Neither side could claim victory, but it eventually ends the era of wooden ships. March 21, 1917 Loretta Walsh becomes the first female Navy Petty Officer when sworn in as Chief Yeoman. March 27, 2007 The last known female veteran of World War I, Charlotte Louise Berry Winters, dies at the age of 109. She enlisted in the Navy in 1917.
Criteria for eligibility: • Children and other dependents who have lived in the household of an active NNSY employee for at least the last two consecutive years. Shipyard employees who are not NSA members should obtain sponsorship from an active member for their dependent application. • Applicants must be enrolled (or accepted for enrollment) at an accredited college, university, or graduate school for the upcoming fall term. • Previous recipients of NAS Scholarships may apply and compete if eligible. Call Kendra Burghard at 3964390 for more information.
» NEWS YOU CAN USE Shipyard Shuttle NNSY is running a shuttle service from building to building throughout the installation side of the base. This service runs Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. and shuttles personnel (civilians, military, and contractors) from the north end to the south end of the shipyard. Each shuttle stop has a sign labeled "America's Shipyard Bus Shuttle Service." As this is a new service for the installation, there may be a few growing pains with timing and pick-up points; we ask that you have some patience, as the drivers get experience driving around the base over the coming weeks. To request a map of the shuttle route, please contact Public Affairs at 396-9550.
» RECORDS MANAGEMENT
» NNSY MILESTONE Thelma Bendler Stern was the first woman assigned to perform duties aboard a U.S. Navy ship as part of her official responsibilities. Stern was an Engineer at NNSY during World War II. As a ship's draftsman, Stern took measurements of ship features to facilitate the placement of upgrades, such as new antiaircraft weapons. Stern’s first assignment was June 29, 1943 aboard USS Escalante (AO-70). This was followed by assignments aboard 229 ships before her career at NNSY ended in 1946.
Preservation Order Actions taken to designate temporary records that may not be destroyed in accordance with National Archives and Records Administration approved disposition schedules and also to designate other documentary material that may not be destroyed. Contingent Disposal Destruction of temporary records at a fixed period after a predictable event. Disposal may be based on the likelihood that two or more events in the future affect a series or records. For more information about Records Management, please contact your Records Liaison Officer or the Command Records Manager, Michelle Guiliano. MARCH 2016 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 9
Theme: LEADERSHIP
James Golson and Tyler Deans stand in front of the shaft they welded as part of NAVSEA's Rotatable Pool.
NNSY Welders and Engineers Demonstrate Continued Performance Excellence and Cost Savings BY ANNA TAYLOR • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY SHAYNE HENSLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER A team of Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) welders and engineers completed an automated shaft weld in January, saving Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) an estimated $1.2 million in avoided cost and maintaining the shipyard’s reputation for shaft refurbishment excellence. The shaft most recently completed is part of NAVSEA’s Rotatable Pool Program, a stock system designed to anticipate future equipment maintenance and repair needs and to provide training when there is a pause in ship-specific work. Before NNSY adopted the automated shaft welding process, which is used for Ohio-class submarines and Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, a job that now takes less than one day would have taken two weeks to complete. In addition to the efficiency boost, NNSY’s 10 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
Structural Group (Code 920) boasts more than 99 percent first time quality when it comes to this type of shaft welding. “It’s about capacity and capability,” said Rick Gorman, a Welding Engineer in Code 138, the Welding Engineering and Non Destructive Test Division. “NAVSEA wants us to maximize our capacity so we can minimize external purchases. Every shaft we refurbish at NNSY saves NAVSEA a lot of money. I want people to know this is a great program. It’s money-saving, it’s automated, and it’s important because if we can’t handle the work, NAVSEA has to ship it to an outside vendor which will charge them three times as much.” The team consisted of several new welders, including two recent apprentice program graduates, who were selected based on
demonstrated potential and specifically trained and qualified to complete the assignment. Code 138, which assists with training and production using the automated technology was also heavily involved. The two departments’ successful non-stop execution of work is attributed to a strong relationship between the engineers and welders working the job. “It’s a process we’ve been using for 13 years, but it’s not something we do every day,” said Alisa Smith, Code 920 Process Manager. “At one point we went almost six years without doing a shaft. So it’s not like these guys get to keep their hand in it every day. It was good for all the welders involved. They really had to step up to the plate.” In support of leadership goals and strategic alignment, Codes 920 and 138 have been working closer than ever before to ensure output goals are met. “If you don’t work together, you’re not going to perform,” explained Gorman. “We’ve got more shafting work coming up than we’ve ever seen before.” Codes 920 and 138 will refurbish the USS Rhode Island (SSBN740) shaft later this year, which will be the first time NNSY has performed that type of work on a Trident submarine. The workload will continue to steadily increase, so the two departments have deliberately developed a partnership built on trust and accountability. “If something does go wrong, Code 138 knows exactly what we’re doing so we can troubleshoot right there on the spot,” said Smith. “They are familiar with the welders, so if there is a problem, both production and engineering can work together to solve it immediately. The welders know them and they trust them.”
Above: the shaft weld completed by Shop 26 welders. Below: James Golson, Tyler Deans, Derek Metzger, and Doug Kubizna were all part of the team that completed the weld.
MARCH 2016 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 11
Accelerate the Change: IMPROVEMENT THROUGH EMPOWERMENT
Eye on Innovation: NNSY'S RAPID PROTOTYPE LAB
BY KRISTI BRITT • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY SHAYNE HENSLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER At Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), innovation and teamwork are key characteristics of the Rapid Prototype Lab (RPL). It opens its doors to anyone who has an idea to make a process more efficient and they are willing to aid anyone who seeks their assistance. However, sometimes someone comes to the team seeking something they do not have the tools to provide. Rather than turn away these creative thinkers, the RPL reaches out to other shops within the shipyard to collaborate and get the job done. One of the groups that has worked alongside the RPL since its start is the Tool Design Division of the shipyard’s Mechanical Group (Code 930), led by Mechanical Engineering Technician Tim
Brandon Jackson and Tim Edmondson examine the O-ring created for SSBN components.
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Edmondson. “We’ve worked with the RPL for years and we’re always happy to help when they come to us with a job,” said Edmondson. “We’re all on the same team and if we are able to help make a job more efficient for our shipyard workforce then it’s a win for us all.” Many jobs the Tool Design Division and RPL collaborate on involves 3-D printing, a technology both groups use on a regular basis. “We have had a full-color 3-D printer for about five years and it is a great resource for creating models and training materials for the workforce,” said RPL’s Don Gauthier. “However, our printer uses a powder to print our models which fades away with time and is not intended for heavy use. Tim’s group has a acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic printer which is able to print single color heavyduty items that will withstand a lot of wear and tear. Working together, we are able to print out exactly what the customer wants.” One example of the collaboration efforts includes the 3-D printing of a cofferdam model to be used to train Navy divers. “A new design was made for the cofferdams and with new sailors coming out of the woodwork needing to be trained, they wanted to have the divers learn what they had to do without putting them in the water, which costs time and money,” said Gauthier. “We began printing a 3-D model of the cofferdam to be utilized in tabletop training for the divers. The engineers we worked with were so pleased with the efforts they were interested in having more heavy-duty models printed to be used on a continuous basis. So we reached out to Tim who was able to print what they asked for.” Another example of collaboration between the two groups was with an O-ring component created to prevent foreign materials from entering significant SSBN components. The Mechanical Group and the Engineering and Planning Department reached out to the Rapid Prototype Lab to 3-D print the prototype they created from spare parts from USS Albany (SSN-750). “The team came to us looking for 3-D printed models of the O-ring that would be heavy duty that they could use to test a final product,” said RPL’s Bobby Truitt. “We knew our printer was not going to provide them the long-lasting product they were looking for so we got them in touch with Tim. Together they were able to print out the models and find the exact dimensions for the tool.” (For more information regarding the O-ring component, check out the February issue of Service to the Fleet on issuu.com/nnsy or WebCentral). The RPL and Tool Design Division are looking forward to more partnerships in the future and they are ready to carry out the Navy’s focus for 3-D printing and beyond. “The Navy’s vision is to have at least one 3-D printer aboard every ship in the fleet within the next ten years. That way if the sailors need a part, that technology is available to them,” said Edmondson. “Our goal at the shipyard with 3-D printing falls right in line with what the Navy wants. We want to be able to use them as a fabrication tool to save both time and money to get the job done.”
Below: Tim Edmondson and Don Gauthier examine the cofferdam 3-D model. Bottom right: the new cofferdam designed to train Navy divers. Bottom left: the 3-D printer used by the RPL and Tool Design Division.
NNSY is dedicated to bringing new and innovative ideas to the workforce, providing safer and more efficient alternatives while saving time and money. The "Eye on Innovation" series will highlight the new technologies, processes, and teams the shipyard is using to make America's Shipyard the best it can be. If you have a story you would like to be considered for this series, contact Kristi Britt at Kristi.Britt@navy.mil.
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THE NNSY ROBOTICS SUB-COMMITTEE MAKING STRIDES WITH INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY BY KRISTI BRITT • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY SHAYNE HENSLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Robotics Sub-Committee (RSC) within the Technology and Innovation Community of Practice (NNSY T&I COP), is taking big steps to bring new technologies to the shipyard. The RSC has several targeted technologies to be tested and implemented with the shipyard, including the use of the Equipois ZeroG arm and exoskeleton suit, air and underwater drone technology, a robotic hull crawler, a thermal spray booth, and a smart hat. These technologies are currently in the research and testing stages, with the RSC taking the lead in showcasing what they can offer to the workforce on the job. “Our focus is to stay abreast on all the latest in robotics technologies that could have a positive impact on the shipyard’s productivity, quality of work, and worker health and safety,” said Edwin Guerra, Process Engineering Department (Code 223) and the RSC Lead. “The robotics sub-committee heavily researches any potential opportunity and provides NNSY with a thorough understanding of how a new robotics technology could benefit the shipyard, should NNSY decide to implement the innovation. We are here to act as the idea generators, the robotics innovation epicenter of the shipyard, as well as the champions in implementing any robotics technologies with which NNSY has decided to move forward.” Benjamin Hundley, from the Surface Ship Non-Nuclear Propulsion Piping Department (Code 267) and a member of the RSC added, “We’re here to bring new innovations not only to NNSY but to the ship repair industry. We have discovered the most relevant technologies that are applicable to what we do here in the shipyard. We’re excited about moving forward and will continue our search for the innovative ideas.”
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TO JOIN THE RSC, CALL EDWIN GUERRA AT 396-2272. EQUIPOIS ZEROG ARM, EXOSKELETON SUIT, & SMART HAT Three years ago, the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Carderock reached out to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS) and NNSY to join in a study to test the Equipois ZeroG arm. The technology allows tools, parts and other payloads to be maneuvered as if weightless, but with complete freedom of motion – providing its users with a level of performance that is unmatched by cranebased systems, torque arms and tool balancers. PSNS produced results with their grinding operations being 66 percent faster, an increase in the quality of the grind, and the users experiencing less strain throughout the day. NNSY’s Rapid Prototype Lab (RPL) began to test the device here at the shipyard, developing three different attachment methods called the I-Beam attachment, Scaffolding attachment, and the Movable Work Stand for ease of access in the various jobs both on the ships and within the shops. Since RSC’s involvement with the tool, the shipyard has also expressed interest in utilizing an exoskeleton suit to work with the ZeroG arm as an attachment through an Industrial Human Augmentations Study (IHAS) from NSWC Carderock. The suit is built to take the load and weight of the tool off the user, rerouting it into the ground. It increases mobility and opens up access for the ZeroG arm onboard the ships. “This type of technology will really improve the quality of work life at the shipyard which is one of our goals in the RSC,” said Hundley. “This is going to have tremendous applications to our industry, it’s been used in other industries and it’s about time the shipbuilding industry finally gets a step ahead into the future.” In addition, NSWC Carderock has brought forth a Smart Hat technology to go along with the suits and the ZeroG arm. The Smart Hat is a visor for the user of the devices that monitors air quality, levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide, the user’s heart rate and stress levels. “The Smart Hat provides a quick and easy way for the user to be able to immediately recognize any risks or hazards going forward with their job and keep them safe from harm,” said Guerra. “We’re excited to see the potential of what these technologies can do for our shipyard.”
THE WAY FORWARD New and exciting plans are coming out of the RSC every day and Guerra says there’s more to come. “We have representation across the shipyard working together to really define what our needs and applications are. We are confident the RSC, with the support of the NNSY Technology and Innovation COP, will be able to push these studies forward and realize what this innovative new technology has to offer in the ship repair industry,” he said. “The beauty of the RSC is that it can operate as sort of an interdisciplinary think tank where we can generate ideas with any new technology that is out there. I really like that about our subcommittee, we have a lot of bright people and out of the box thinkers coming up with innovative ways to move forward. And we’re always looking for more members to join the team.” MARCH 2016 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 15
NNSY Participates in Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield 2016 STORY BY ANNA TAYLOR • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY LUKE BEASLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) held an active shooter exercise in Bldg. 171 Feb. 3 as part of Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield (SC-CS) 2016, a force protection exercise conducted by Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) and Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) on all CONUS Navy installations. SC-CS is the planned annual Anti-Terrorism (AT) capstone exercise not designed in response to any specific threat. NNSY participates to ensure employees and first responders are ready to act when confronted by changing and dynamic threats. Byron “Reggie” Thompson, Mechanical Group (Code 930) Superintendent, brought up the need for a drill within his department 16 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
after an off-yard incident occurred during the summer of 2015. “When I looked at all of the things that happen in the world, I felt a burden to ensure I’ve done everything to protect the people who work for me. I am responsible for all those people,” he explained. “It bothered me that we had these production employees who haven’t had the same level of training that those outside the industrial area have had. So it was all about trying to increase their awareness of what to do in an active shooter scenario. I wanted the folks in our building to be prepared.” Naval Support Activity (NSA)-NNSY typically facilitates active shooter drills at least two or three times a year at various levels of
intensity, but for SC-CS, the shipyard simulated an active shooter scenario inside the Controlled Industrial Area (CIA) for the first time. In the past, safety concerns and production deadlines have prevented the planning and execution of AT exercises inside the CIA, but with approval from Shipyard Commander, Capt. Scott Brown, and comprehensive oversight of the Installation Training Team (ITT), the exercise in Bldg. 171 was given a green light. James “Doc” Payne, NSA-NNSY’s Installation Training Officer from the Base Support Office (Code 800), helped facilitate the exercise and made sure the multiple stakeholders were adequately prepared ahead of time. He and the Installation Emergency Manager (Steve Murley) conducted multiple “Active Shooter in the Work Place” briefs to nearly 850 Code 930 employees and worked closely with them to update the building’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP). “We found a lot of holes in our EAP, so we had to dust it off and revisit it,” said Thompson of the briefs. “We made some changes, and ran smaller fire drills to see how our people could perform in basic evacuation.” Thompson initially hoped to hold the drill in the fall of 2015, but because large-scale exercises require so much pre-planning and collaboration, early 2016 was the most opportune time. Payne said the biggest challenge when planning the exercise within the CIA was integrating with outside city resources, such as police and fire departments, Emergency Medical Services and emergency management. “We had to isolate the building from normal shipyard operations because production work must continue unimpeded, so we essentially had to make Bldg. 171 an island,” he explained. During the entire exercise, ITT safety observers were present to enforce a safe-to-train environment; keep unauthorized people out of the training area; and make sure role players, first responders and building participants had the opportunity to exercise their actions in
an active shooter scenario. Every building in the shipyard should have an EAP, and Payne urges everyone to have situational awareness for the potential of danger at work and at home. “An active shooter doesn’t necessarily mean that a foreign terrorist is actively on the base, it could be a Homegrown Violent Extremist (HVE) or a disgruntled employee who triggers an attack,” he said. “It doesn’t even have to be a firearm; it can be a knife, a baseball bat, or another tool. So in reality, it’s not an active shooter but an active killer. And with all of the real-world related events happening in our country, these types of drills become even more serious and personal.” Payne wants to make sure the workforce knows how to respond in case something ever happens at NNSY, and a key objective is communicating to the population during emergency events. Every person on base is required to add their work phone and e-mail to the Wide Area Alert Network (WAAN), which includes the Giant Voice system, NMCI desk-top pop-ups, text alerts, e-mail alerts and phone alerts. Another key objective involves realistic training and challenging of the shipyard’s first responders. “Our responders have pre-planned responses, tactics, techniques, and procedures for almost every emergency situation,” he said. “When we challenge them with a facility the size and scope of Bldg. 171, we put them at a disadvantage because they are not intimately familiar with every structure. We’ve got a lot of young officers on our police force, so we want to challenge them. It’s all about life safety; saving lives and educating the workforce to apply these skills if needed, on base or at home.” For Thompson, observing the drill was a stark reminder of how easily something could happen at the shipyard. “Just standing there watching, knowing the shooter was in my office with my staff, my people, it was an emotional moment,” he said. “This is real. This could happen. It was overwhelming.”
Top left: Role player MA1 Maurice Leverett crouches as first responders arrive on scene. Above: MA2 Sarah Morris advances on the role player's location. Bottom left: Capt. Paul Amodio, Base Support Officer (Code 800) and Shipyard Commander Capt. Scott Brown observe the exercise.
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Your Yard: PLACES & FACES
Supervising with a Smile: April Dotson BY KRISTI BRITT • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY SHAYNE HENSLEY & TONY ANDERSON • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHERS When asked what led her to Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), Code 970 Temporary Services’ April Dotson said with a smile, “I wouldn’t say what so much as who led me here.” In 2002, Dotson was working as a bartender while her sister Dawn was in search of a job of her own. At the time, their uncle, Paul Smith, was working in the shipyard budget department and introduced them to the Apprentice Program. A woman devoted to her family, Dotson, upon her sister’s urging, applied alongside Dawn for the apprenticeship. “I was surprised to find I got the job,” said Dotson, adding Dawn entered the apprenticeship three years later and went on to become a Nuclear Pipefitter Supervisor out of Shop 56. “I came in as a painter and had no experience whatsoever with the craft. However, I decided I wanted to be successful in my career and learned as much as I could with everything I did. At the time I was a single mother with two kids at home, so I worked and went to school two nights a week. It was difficult and took a lot of determination and pride. I wanted to excel at everything I did and build my career from the ground up.” Dotson graduated from the NNSY Apprentice Program in 2006 as the class valedictorian, one of the most important moments of her career. From there, she continued to take every job just as seriously as the last, learning each and every day what she could do to help make a difference for the Navy. 18 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
“We are America’s Shipyard which means we’re the best of the best,” said Dotson. “I feel we all must strive to do everything we possibly can to make a difference in the Navy. We play a vital role in getting these ships to the fleet and maintaining them for years to come. Our jobs are a huge commitment and we should all perform them with the utmost pride and integrity. We come here to build careers and make a difference for America’s Navy.” Currently, Dotson is the Non-Nuclear Training Coordinator for Code 970 and is responsible for coordinating training for approximately 1,100 workers. “I personally believe my job can actually make a difference in someone else’s career,” Dotson explained. “I make sure our workers are qualified to perform their duties. I provide them what they need to be successful and develop themselves throughout their career at the shipyard and beyond. Without qualified individuals, we wouldn’t be able to perform our duties here at the shipyard.” In addition to her regular duties, Dotson serves as the chair for NNSY’s Federal Women’s Program (FWP), something she has been part of since 2003. The FWP is a group with the initiative to develop women, both civilian and military, throughout the shipyard. “I feel diversity organizations like the FWP are important to the shipyard because they provide a community where people are able to collaborate with others like themselves,” said Dotson.
Shipyard Spotlight “It gives us an opportunity to come together and work side-byside, share stories, and just give us someone to talk to who can relate because they come from the same place as you. I’m proud of my involvement with the FWP and everything we do as an organization.” The FWP’s efforts include providing aid for women within the shipyard to break down the boundaries they might encounter in the workplace. The FWP also does its fair share of community outreach, which includes working with the Salvation Army for the Angel Tree services during the holidays, annually collecting school supplies for local schools within Portsmouth and Chesapeake, and sponsoring all shipyard breast cancer survivors during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Outside of her duties at the shipyard, Dotson is devoted to her family. “My hobby is spending as much time as I can with my kids and with my family. We’re a tight-knit group and we get together multiple times during the year,” said Dotson. In 2015, her sister Dawn passed away, something that weighs on Dotson often. “I miss my sister and in her passing my family has grown closer, all of us unified under that love for one-another while experiencing such a loss. My life revolves around my family and my career and I’m proud of what I can accomplish with them by my side.” Looking to the future, Dotson has plans to continue her growth as an individual both personally and professionally. “I just want to experience as much as I can within the shipyard and in my career. I want to provide myself an opportunity to advance and change,” said Dotson. “I’m interested in furthering my education and get my bachelors even though I’m in my late 40s. I want to give back as much as I can while at the shipyard and make a difference. In doing that, I’m teaching my children a vital lesson in work ethic and first time quality and doing the best you can in everything you do. Put your best foot forward and try to make a difference and care about others in the meantime.”
12 things you didn't know about April Dotson 1. My favorite color is green. 2. My lucky number is three. 3. I would love to go on vacation to a warm and sandy beach, or on a cruise to Alaska. 4. I have three dogs: a beagle and two beagle mixes. 5. My friend Brenda is my go-to sidekick. She’s always there and my sanity check. 6. Vanilla is my favorite ice cream flavor because it's nice and simple.
7. I love the beach and the mountains, I’m very versatile. 8. Classic Rock is my favorite music. 9. I read mysteries when I have time. 10. My favorite band is The Marshall Tucker Band. 11. The first concert I ever went to was David Cassidy. 12. I have so many favorite concerts, but Marshall Tucker, Ozzy Osbourne, Santana, Rush, John Mayer, Three Doors Down, and Molly Hatchet really stand out. I love going to concerts of any genre.
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NNSY HOLDS BIG ROCKS CEREMONY WITH REAR ADM. MARK WHITNEY BY JENNIFER ZINGALIE • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTOS BY SHAYNE HENSLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) celebrated two significant events during a “Big Rocks” ceremony after a shipyardwide clean-up Feb. 3. The ceremony recognized the early completion of USS Helena's (SSN-725) Docking Continuous Maintenance Availability (DCMAV) as well as reaching a major milestone on the USS La Jolla (SSN-701) project, in converting the ship into a Moored Training Ship. The shipyard has held other “Big Rock” celebrations during 20 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
the last few years, which serve to recognize employees for their contributions to naval readiness by returning ships to the fleet on or before schedule during the year. Special guest speaker during the ceremony, Rear Adm. Mark Whitney, Deputy Commander Logistics, Maintenance and Industrial Operations (NAVSEA) said meeting these achievements showed the significant role the shipyard played in carrying out the Chief of Naval Operations core attributes found in his recent guidance. These
attributes include integrity, accountability, initiative, and toughness. “You have done what you said you were going to, you feel accountable, it took initiative, and in several cases you had to demonstrate toughness to get there,” said Whitney. Shipyard Commander Capt. Scott Brown also took time to highlight some of the more recent team and individual accomplishments at NNSY. One of these was the record breaking completion of propulsion plant testing on USS Maryland (SSBN-738) as part of its Engineered Refueling Overhaul (ERO). Testing was completed safely in 29 days, where the previous best for a similar project was 42. He also recognized people like Second Year Apprentice Adam Fahy, who helped design a tool that makes servicing ships' 540-pound breakers faster and safer. “Innovation is key to our success in the future and we need more,” said Brown. The ceremony concluded with the project superintendents from the Helena and La Jolla projects, as well as some of those who worked on each project, on stage to break ceremonial rocks.
However, there were three rocks on stage. It was the safety rock that remained unbroken during the ceremony. Brown explained to the shipyard, no matter how great an accomplishment, the most important “Big Rock” is safety. “Our goal is ‘nobody gets hurt today,’” he said. He said although reaching zero injuries in an industrial environment will take concentrated effort, he believes it will be achieved. Because of this, and to better help support NNSY safety efforts, things such as frequent clean-up days, removal of dry dock services from the ground, and a better investigation process for injuries have been implemented or revitalized. The shipyard is also offering a shuttle service to ensure employees are safe when transiting from building to building. “Before starting a job ask, ‘what could hurt me?’ Think about what you will be doing. Look out for yourself and others,” he said. Brown plans to hold a “Big Rocks” ceremony each quarter. The hope is not only to recognize the accomplishments of the shipyard but also to recognize that each accomplishment has been made in the safest way possible. MARCH 2016 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 21
Waterfront Watch: ALL HANDS ON DECK
NNSY Completes USS Maryland ERO BY MICHAEL BRAYSHAW • LEAD PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTO BY TONY ANDERSON • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER USS Maryland (SSBN-738) departed Norfolk Naval Shipyard Feb. 12 upon successful completion of its Engineered Refueling Overhaul (ERO). EROs are complex, major shipyard availabilities which extend a submarine’s service life. In addition to being refueled, nearly all of ships systems were overhauled including replacement of distilling plants with a reverse osmosis unit, installation of an upgraded 500 kilowatt motor generator, electric power plant work and LAN upgrades. The project team met several key milestones early on this overhaul, including an early undocking; achieving record performance in the period from completion of hot operations to the start of its power range test program; and a record performance on propulsion plant testing. Project team leadership credited successful teamwork with ship’s force as a major contributor to a successful availability. Prior 22 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MARCH 2016
to the availability’s start in Dec. 2012, the Maryland project team actively met with ship’s company to build an effective, cohesive team. “We were fortunate to have a well-balanced team with diverse experience ranging from extensive SSBN ERO experience to new personnel,” said Deputy Project Superintendent David Malsbury. “The level of cooperation and teamwork has been exceptional.” Shipyard Commander, Captain Scott Brown, said, “The Maryland project team held itself to high standards and had strong leadership with a focus on planning, communication and coordination. Every SSBN refit and maintenance period directly supports the next strategic deployment, which is the most pressing priority for the Department of Defense.” Maryland is the 13th of 18 operational Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine and was commissioned in 1992. She is homeported in Kings Bay, Ga.
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH Each year, the National Women’s History Project selects a theme that highlights achievements by distinguished women. This year's theme: Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government, highlights women who have shaped America’s history and its future through their public service and government leadership.
DR. MARY WALKER was an outspoken advocate for women's rights and the only woman ever awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Walker was born in upstate New York in 1832, and graduated with a doctor of medicine degree from Syracuse Medical College in 1855. During the Civil War, she volunteered for the Union and worked as a nurse and later as a surgeon. In the summer of 1864, she was a prisoner of war until she was exchanged for a Confederate soldier. Source: www.nlm.nih.gov/changingthefaceofmedicine/physicians/biography_325.html Now in her second term as leader of the World Health Organization, MARGARET CHAN is the most powerful person in global public health and the only one with the authority to call a worldwide pandemic. In addition to battling viruses, she champions improvements in maternal care. “What matters most to me is people. And two specific groups of people in particular. I want us to be judged by the impact we have on the health of the people of Africa and the health of women.” Source: www.who.int/dg/en/ DR. NANCY GRACE ROMAN is one of the greatest American astronomers of this century. She set an example for women everywhere when she broke into a career field that was largely dominated by men at the time. Often called the “Mother of the Hubble,” Dr. Roman was instrumental in developing innovative concepts in the ongoing expansion of the space program. Source: https://women.nasa.gov/nancy-grace-roman/ RETIRED CHIEF PETTY OFFICER LINDA OLD HORN-PURDY grew up on the Crow Agency reservation in Montana learning stories of her ancestors from her family while attending school off the reservation. Her desire to learn was her main reason for joining the Navy. In 1985, she was one of the first women on her deployed ship, and in 1999, she was among the first women on a combatant ship. She was in engineering but couldn’t be called a machinist for three years until the field opened to women. Source: www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle. aspx?id=123730 In 1974, the people of Connecticut elected ELLA TAMBUSSI GRASSO as their governor. In doing so, Grasso became the first woman to be elected to the position of governor in the United States. She chose to run for the position after a long career in public service and won the election based on her life-long dedication to effective government and the democratic process. On Thursday, December 3, 2015, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter ordered the U.S. military to open all combat positions to women—amounting to around 220,000 jobs that had previously been closed to females. Photo By Lance Cpl. Marionne T. Mangrum/U.S. Marine Corps Via Reuters.