Newport News Shipbuilding hosted the 2026 Tool Expo Oct. 13-15 at the Ship Join Bay (Bldg. 1913).
The expo was designed to highlight innovative tools, process improvements and resources that enhance safe, efficient operations. Bldg. 1913 became a live showroom for the NNS tool room, giving shipbuilders the opportunity to see the full scope of the tool room’s inventory.
Demonstrations included side-by-side comparisons of standard tool models against anti-rotation and anti-vibration models, allowing shipbuilders to feel performance differences first-hand, and the chance to ask technical questions directly to subject matter experts.
Jada Batiste (X31), who just became a shipbuilder in March, said that her experience was great.
“Everyone I have talked to has been very informative and know what they are here for,” she said. “It will also show the shipyard what types of tools we are looking for on the job, instead of purchasing thing we may not need.”
Sheet Metal Foreman Braxton Riddick (X32) echoed this sentiment.
“The expo is showing us what all we can take advantage of here at the shipyard,” he explained. “We are seeing new ideas and innovations that could make our jobs easier and safer.”
A total of 26 distributors and manufacturers attended the expo, with approximately 5,500 tools issued on-site. At times, demand for certain tools exceeded on-hand supply but event organizers quickly coordinated new, rapid deliveries to the venue and set up etching stations to label incoming tools immediately.
“By demonstrating our commitment to tool innovation, fostering real‑time collaboration and capturing valuable feedback, we have strengthened our position as a trusted partner to the trades, distributors and manufacturers,” said Superintendent Rhonda King (X36). “The insights gathered from the event will directly inform future product development, inventory planning and partnership strategies, ensuring we continue to deliver tools that meet the evolving needs of the deck plate.”
