From not knowing anything about the shipyard to becoming the overall 2022 apprentice of the year, Robert Cowan sets the standard for hard work paying off. Combine his natural ability to effectively communicate with his undeniable work ethic, and you get the perfect recipe for one of many great leaders of the future.
Cowan’s journey at Ingalls started in 2018, seeking to learn a trade in order to provide for his family. Knowing both of his in-laws made a decent living in the shipyard, he reached out to them to get his foot in the door.
“They told me about their time working here and how they started their careers in the apprenticeship program,” said Cowan. “Finding out I could come in not knowing anything and learn a trade is what brought me here.”
Eager to learn, Cowan made a commitment to the 85 year legacy of Ingalls. Instantly, pipe and machinery training manager Ralph Cruthirds noticed Cowan was willing to prove he was ready to become a shipbuilder.
“He stood out by sitting in the front of the class, asking questions, and displayed a willingness to learn and study,” said Cruthirds. “His self-motivation quickly ascended him as the apprentice valedictorian for the class of 2022, and a pipefitter that foremen wanted to work with.”
Throughout his time with the apprenticeship program, Cowan not only found his passion for shipbuilding, but also his purpose of teaching others. His hard work led to a training instructor role at the Maritime Training Academy (MTA). This is a role he’s excited to attain in his career.
“This program impacted my life so much, and I enjoy sharing my ship knowledge,” said Cowan. “For me, it would feel like giving back to a company that changed my life for the better.”
Cowan is respected by his peers because he always goes the extra mile to get the job completed. He displays a great amount of patience and relates with the apprentices while teaching them to be pipefitters.
“Robert has not had a single attendance occurrence in almost six years while driving an hour and 15 minutes one way to work,” said Cruthirds. “After coming onboard with me in training, he would stay over on his time asking questions to improve himself as an instructor.”
Spreading the important message of a shipbuilder’s role to help the military defend our nation is something Cowan takes to heart. He understands this job is far from easy, but if apprentices can remain focused, the sky’s the limit at Ingalls.
“It all goes back to my love for helping others,” said Cowan. “They’re using these ships to protect us, so that’s our way of contributing to our country.”
Successful companies learn from the past, enjoy the present and always look towards the future. Through multiple generations, Ingalls Shipbuilding honors both past and current shipbuilders who dedicate their lives building world-class ships to protect our nation. However, Ingalls is also responsible for crafting the leaders of tomorrow.
The Next On Deck campaign highlights shipbuilders earning their stripes in the apprenticeship programs. These stories will celebrate the future shipbuilders who will carry on the everlasting legacy of Ingalls.
