Christian Hardister
Sheet Metal Apprentice
Two years at NNS
“I’m a second-generation apprentice, fourth-generation shipbuilder. I grew up hearing my mom and dad talk about how they love working here. That gave me familiarity with the school workload, but not so much with shipyard work. It’s nice to make my family proud, but I am also proud of my work. Before coming here, I wasn’t a tools guy. I’ve enjoyed learning them, though, and now I get to teach others how to use them. I don’t consider myself a professional at something until I am able to teach it. Even then, I’m learning more about that thing as I teach.”
The series features shipbuilders’ photos and their brief statements. If you or another shipbuilder you know is interested in being highlighted, email communications@hii-nns.com.
