When people reflect on different chapters of their lives, especially on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, they typically refer to events as pre- or post-Katrina. Take New Orleans native Ronald Hammler, for example. Before the historic hurricane, Ronald worked at Avondale for 17 years. Little did he know, moving to Mississippi in 2004 to work in Supply Chain Management at Ingalls would be more than just a change of scenery.
“It changed everything. The storm had a lot to do with that but it was a reset on my life,” said Ronald. “I met my wife, started my new position in a new workplace, in a new state, with new career opportunities.”
Ronald is now a procurement planning control representative and is responsible for the team that handles Planning Yard and post-delivery operations in the shipyard. In addition, he also oversees overhaul, material sourcing and technical requirements for Engineering and Planning.
“Our job is crucial to deadlines for our customers,” said Ronald. “We have to make sure that materials are loaded when we get that request from the planning group in order to be shipped out to wherever the ship is located.”
As a mentor to others in the shipyard, Ronald continues to learn new things every day, even after 38 years as a shipbuilder. One key piece of advice he emphasizes is that consistency and humility go a long way. Sharing his knowledge and experiences from over the years motivates him and ensures his legacy is passed down to newer shipbuilders.
“The younger generations bring great energy to the shipyard so we should embrace them,” said Ronald. “The Lord blessed me with shipbuilders who took the time to show me the way. I feel like it’s my responsibility to pay it forward.”
