Newport News Shipbuilding partnered with LEAD Virginia and community leaders to host the three-day Lead Forward program in September and October. The class included 33 early- and mid-career level NNS leaders representing HII corporate and 13 NNS divisions.

“The NNS Lead Forward program is one of the awesome ways that NNS invests in our leaders,” said Brian Fields, vice president of Manufacturing. “Leadership is not just about achieving goals; it’s about stewardship – nurturing the present and preserving the future. A true leader safeguards the well-being of themselves, their family, their organization and the broader community, ensuring a legacy of sustainable success.”

The program, now in its sixth year, was designed by LEAD Virginia to advance leadership development among NNS professionals. Partnering with Hampton Roads businesses, the Lead Forward program provides immersive learning experiences. It also exposes participants to the various regional economic and environmental factors that impact various businesses, how business leaders assess and respond to those factors, and the implications of those factors as they relate to NNS.

“Lead Forward is a truly unique program designed to help rising shipyard leaders sharpen leadership skills and harness them to positively impact our company and the world around us,” said Xavier Beale, vice president of Human Resources and Trades Administration.

“This program has been the most impactful leadership experience I have participated in during my time at NNS,” said Charles (Chas) Johnson III (X20), a program participant. “Not only did it enhance my understanding of our company’s values and operations, but it also provided invaluable networking opportunities with vice presidents, Lead Virginia alumni, community leaders and cohort members. Additionally, the focus on applied leadership styles has already influenced how I approach challenges and collaborate with my team.”