Recognizing teammates who lead by example
Mission Technologies employee Rob Belau recently received an “On-the-Spot” ethics award.
Belau, a tech subject matter expert and U.S. Navy retiree, was recognized for consistently upholding the company values in a way that reflects HII’s highest standards.
“It was a bit of a surprise for me, and I was a little embarrassed,” Belau said. “Considering this is something I am on the lookout for every time I am on the boat, this is my job to ensure that HII is represented in the best light by my actions.”
Belau’s commitment to ethical leadership stems from his military background. He noted that HII’s values mirror those he followed during his Navy career.
“It has just become a way of life,” he said. “So not only do I use the company values at work, I use the company values away from work as well as at work.”
That principled mindset proved instrumental in his recent work aboard the submarine USS Tennessee (SSBN 734), where Belau and the team set an ambitious goal of reducing Condition IDR Reports—and exceeded it. His ethical approach to problem-solving and team leadership contributed to the effort that resulted in fewer than 50 reports and an on-time delivery that was two weeks ahead of schedule.
Belau offered advice for anyone striving to support an ethical culture at work.
“I would advise colleagues to be respectful toward one another—and respectful of the important job we are doing,” he said. “If something doesn’t seem quite right, take a step back and analyze the situation to make sure it is right. Bring in colleagues to look at the situation as well to make sure what we are doing is the right thing we are supposed to be doing. If it still does not seem right, then we write up the issue and get help from other sources. There may already be a solution that we have not thought of yet.”
“The sailors are putting their lives in our hands expecting the equipment we install will work properly,” Belau added. “We need to do the job the right way, so they can be successful and come home safely. That way everyone wins.”
Rob Belau was nominated by Cheyenne Ritt, program manager, using the On-the-Spot Ethics Recognition Program.
HII’s On-the-Spot Ethics Recognition Program is designed “to provide immediate recognition to employees who show ownership of our company values and whose ethical behavior and actions demonstrate our company values in their everyday activities.”
To spotlight someone who is living HII’s core values, submit the C-941 nomination form, also found on the Ethics and Business Conduct site.
For more information, refer to Corporate Procedure CO A605.
