As a part of Newport News Shipbuilding’s commitment to demonstrate diversity and inclusion as a business imperative, the company takes pride in celebrating shipbuilders by recognizing success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through the participation in national conventions and award conferences.

Through this effort, NNS supports six major STEM Diversity Conferences each year: Black Engineer of the Year Award (BEYA), Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), Society of Women Engineers (SWE), STEP (science, technology, engineering, and production) Ahead and Women of Color Awards and Conference (WOC).

Twice per year, the company requests nominations of employees who are making significant contributions to be recognized during these conferences. Nominations for the 2023 conferences listed below are open through April 30.

Black Engineer of the Year Award (BEYA): Founded in 1986, BEYA is a globally recognized event that celebrates the achievements of people who are underrepresented in STEM fields. Each year, the BEYA Conference brings professionals and students together for three days of networking, professional development, and celebrating excellence.

STEP Ahead: The Manufacturing Institute launched the STEP Ahead awards as an initiative to recognize women in science, technology, engineering and production careers. Each year, the institute recognizes 100 women and 30 emerging leaders, a category to honor women under the age of 30 who have achieved unique accomplishments at the start of their careers.

Society of Women Engineers (SWE): SWE strives to recognize the successes of its members and individuals who enhance the engineering profession and advocate for women in engineering through contributions to industry, education and the community. SWE seeks to recognize individuals who support the core values of the organization: integrity, inclusive environment, mutual support, professional excellence and trust.

To learn more about nominating an employee, visit the Diversity Conference and Awards website on MyNNS.