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HII’s (NYSE: HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division marked the graduation of 70 apprentice school students during a ceremony at the shipyard. The event recognized the newest class to complete a Department of Labor-registered program that combines classroom instruction, paid on-the-job training, and industry-recognized credentials.
Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette said the future of shipbuilding depends on skilled workers and that the graduates should carry their responsibility with pride. He added that the timing is especially important because the U.S. Navy is relying on the commitment and capability of these trained shipbuilders for the ships the nation depends on.
Since the Ingalls Apprentice School was founded in 1952, it has graduated more than 4,000 shipbuilders. The program currently supports more than 750 students who contribute directly to Ingalls’ operations.
The school provides specialized training in 15 U.S. Department of Labor–registered trades. Apprentices receive technical skills, a strong work ethic, and hands-on experience intended to help them advance into journeyman roles. Apprentices also earn competitive wages and receive a comprehensive benefits package beginning 30 days after starting the program.
Ingalls annually recognizes apprentices who excel in academics, craftsmanship, leadership, and dedication. This year, joiner apprentice Sawyer Briggs was named Overall Apprentice of the Year.
Briggs said the program gave him the skills and confidence needed to build ships that support the Navy and the nation, and that he takes pride in the craftsmanship delivered every day.
Ingalls Shipbuilding, described as the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi, has designed, built, and maintained amphibious ships and destroyers for the U.S. Navy for more than 87 years. The apprentice school is characterized as a backbone of Ingalls’ workforce, with many graduates moving from craft roles into leadership positions and senior management over their careers at the shipyard.
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