Newport News Shipbuilding’s Columbia-Class Submarine Construction Program has grown fast in just the past year. The program, which recently surpassed 500 shipbuilders in production, celebrated spirit week July 31-Aug. 4.

Hosted by the Columbia Engagement Team, the week included themed days for shipbuilders to wear clothing to represent their favorite sports team, character and school as well as mental health awareness and Columbia/NNS swag. There also was a HERO: HII Employees Reach Out deckplate huddle and a cornhole tournament that included teams of shipbuilders from across the program.

The week culminated on Friday with an appreciation cookout for shipbuilders.

“The people need to know management and the company care,” said Chauncy Jones (X62), a blast and coat construction supervisor and one of the engagement team leads. “They need to know that we care about their well-being and not just what they can produce. This is just a small thing we can do to show we care, we appreciate you, and we thank you.”

This year’s event – which Jones said should be held annually – built off of a smaller event last year as the program was ramping up.

Becky Webster (K96), another member of the engagement team, ran the cornhole tournament and said she saw engagement and participation grow throughout the week.

“Everybody’s been very excited about doing something like this,” she said. “This is all for the craftsmen and craftswomen. Without them, none of us will be successful.”