Shipbuilders gathered in Newport News Shipbuilding’s Apprentice School gym on Jan. 13 to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The event, themed “Mentoring the Dream: Building Together” and hosted across all three shifts, marks the 10th year of NNS commemorating Dr. King’s everlasting impact.

Malik Whitaker, program director for USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), delivered the keynote address and reflected on how his grandfather met King during a visit to Newport News.

“He could recall how compassionate and genuine Dr. King was,” Whitaker said. “My grandfather told me that without the efforts of people like Dr. King, I wouldn’t have the opportunities that I have today.”

Whitaker emphasized that King’s dream was to bring people together and promote goodwill, justice, equality, and eliminate oppression.

“Whether you know it or not, we continue to keep Dr. King’s dream alive. What we build together every day helps deliver freedom around the world. Every weld, every pipe, every drawing helps to fight exploitation and oppression of those who cannot defend themselves,” Whitaker said.

The ceremony also featured spoken word written and delivered by Rochelle Robbins (O18), and remarks from Xavier Beale, vice president of Human Resources, and NNS President Kari Wilkinson.

The event made an impact on sheet metal worker Arkia Lewis (X32), who attended the first-shift event.

“I thought it was insightful and thoughtful of the company to host this for the shipbuilders. Hearing about Malik’s grandfather’s experience, and the way he tied it back to shipbuilding, was really nice and makes me appreciate working here,” she said.