The Isle of Wight County School Board recently recognized a Newport News Shipbuilding employee for her efforts in supporting the school district’s welding program, which also helps build a pipeline to grow the future workforce at the shipyard.

Foreman Ashley Wells (K48) works through the SCOUTS program at NNS. The program relies on partnerships with local schools and volunteers who are assigned to public schools, community colleges or trade centers. They assist students in learning about the nuances of NNS and opportunities in trades. They also encourage and inspire the students to seek further employment at NNS and provide mentorship and guidance.

The school board honored Wells with the Business Partner Recognition award.

“I actively mentor students by drawing from my personal career journey,” Wells said. “The program provides me with the opportunity to assist young people with identifying their strengths and weakness to navigate career options, refine resumes, build profiles with NNS and learn about their future ambitions.”

Almost 40 students benefit from Wells’ mentorship each semester.

Developed as an initiative under SEEKnns, SCOUTS focuses on driving interest in education and pathways for local students, developing technical and soft skills, and providing practical experience that exposes them to career opportunities.

Wells added: “I’m passionate about being a SCOUT. It enables me to contribute to the community and its students. I enjoy being able to shine a positive light on the essential role we as shipbuilders accomplish on our overall mission of building great ships for our military community.”