For David Hicks, service did not end when he returned from military deployment. It continues every day through the ships he helps build and support. 

A manager in Engineering’s Combat Systems group, David has spent more than 25 years at Ingalls. During that time, he also served six years in the Navy—an experience that changed the way he views his work. 

“When you’re serving on these ships and living on these ships and depending on our systems, seeing that side really brought it all back home for me,” he said. “When you push a button on the fire system or close a hatch, it has to work. It really makes you understand how important shipbuilders are.” 

David undertook two deployments while at Ingalls and said the company went above and beyond to support him, staying connected with him and his family. It was support that helped give him peace of mind so he could remain focused on the mission at hand. 

Coming back from each deployment gave David an even greater appreciation for the responsibility behind every decision made during the construction of a ship. 

“What you do here might not save somebody’s life. But if you don’t do it exactly right, it can absolutely cost somebody’s life.” 

David saw that connection firsthand in 2001 when the USS Cole (DDG 67) returned to Ingalls following a deadly attack. Having a role in helping repair the ship is among his proudest moments. 

“Seeing her sail back away again, ready to serve the nation, because of what we did before and what we were still able to do to bring her back and support her crew,” he said. “I can’t think of anything else that’s more inspiring than that.” 

David may no longer wear the uniform, but the mission remains the same: supporting the men and women who defend our nation. 

“The Sailors take care of their ship. They depend on that ship; they live on that ship. We are trusted to build that home for them,” David emphasized. “And we want to give them a good product because somebody we know will likely be on that ship at some point in time. Whether that’s a spouse, a son or daughter, a close friend, a neighbor, a future generation—but somebody we know will be on that ship.” 

That is why David encourages every shipbuilder to take pride in their work. 

“Cutting corners puts lives at risk, which puts our nation at risk,” he said. “Always do your best in everything you do. It may be cliché and said a lot but it’s because it’s true—what you do today really does matter.” 

For David, doing what is right for the warfighter is a commitment carried through decades of service in uniform and as an Ingalls shipbuilder. 

David, thank you for your service!