The Apprentice School Student Association (ASSA) recently hosted its first Leadership Mix & Mingle, bringing together apprentices, alumni and senior leaders from across Newport News Shipbuilding for an evening focused on connection, mentorship and professional growth.

Held at Coastal Fermentory, the event welcomed and featured leaders representing Communications, Human Resources, Engineering, Operations and General Manufacturing, reinforcing the company’s commitment to investing in and engaging with the next generation of shipbuilders.

Throughout the evening, participants connected over pizza and conversation, with leaders moving throughout the room to engage with apprentices and alumni alike. The casual format fostered open dialogue, allowing attendees to ask questions, exchange experiences and expand their professional networks.

“The goal was simple,” said ASSA President Shaana Thomas (X06). “We wanted to create a space where everyone feels comfortable having genuine conversations. Everybody in the room was a person before they were a title.”

The Leadership Mix & Mingle reflects ASSA’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen the apprentice experience beyond the classroom by connecting students with the people and perspectives that help shape successful careers.