A pilot program at Ingalls is bringing together newly hired shipbuilders, forming a cohort that allows them to move through training and out onto the deckplate together. Called the Great 8, the program aims to see entry-level shipbuilders complete three eight-week stages of training as a group. The first cohort consisted of shipfitters who were all hired during an Ingalls hiring event this past fall. 

“The Great 8 program has made me realize I was more than capable of handling my responsibilities,” said Tasha Patton, shipfitter helper apprentice. “There’s always something different to learn and ways to improve your craft.”

The program put entry-level shipfitters through eight weeks of initial training at the East Bank’s Training Center, where they earned their tacking certification and gained a basic knowledge about their craft. The group was then assigned together to a crew and remained on the East Bank for another eight weeks, performing direct work for ships in production, such as fitting foundations and bulkheads on a smaller scale. This allowed them to continue learning in a controlled environment. 

“I learned about blueprints, welding, reading a tape measure and so much more,” said Tasha. “The most important thing I learned was being safe while completing tasks and how safety is always the top priority.”

Next, the cohort was onboarded to new crews on the West Bank with a focus on keeping small groups of them together for another eight weeks as they adapt to being on the deckplate. Now, many of these shipbuilders have advanced to become registered apprentices.

In addition to developing a skilled workforce, the Great 8 program provides new shipbuilders with camaraderie and support as they learn to improve the training experience. Cohort members learn from each other’s experiences, questions and perspectives as they progress at a consistent learning pace. Not only does this enhance skill development and integration into the shipyard, it also fosters collaboration and teamwork as they build their shipbuilding careers at Ingalls.

“This pilot program is aimed at providing new shipbuilders with, not only the knowledge and tools they need to be successful, but the support of others who are also experiencing the shipyard environment for the first time,” said Jenni Jones, chief of staff, Hull. “These shipbuilders helped motivate and build each other up as they moved through each stage of their training and are now prepared to grow long-lasting careers at Ingalls.”

To see all of the current opportunities at Ingalls, visit www.hii.com/careers