James Barnes, a foreman in the Virginia-Class Submarine Program, provides clarity during a shift start.

Standards Series: A Successful Shift Start is Key

Published January 29, 2025

James Barnes (X32) reflects on his role as a foreman at Newport News Shipbuilding by saying, “Each day when I walk through the doors of the Modular Outfitting Facility (MOF), it starts with me. I set the tone for my mechanics’ attitude, engagement and willingness to have a productive day.”

This year, the Standards Team is rolling out streamlined elements for Construction Operating System/Deckplate Standards (COS/DPS) as part of the company’s commitment to being a best-in-class manufacturing company. The first element is the shift start.

“We’re getting back to the basics. It’s really about a set of standards for all of the teams — and it works,” said Mike Jones, Standards director.

At shift start, foremen engage with their teams to discuss safety and participate in Shipbuilder Strong stretching exercises. They issue daily job assignments with measurable goals, set expectations and mechanics provide reverse job instructions. Foremen also share lessons learned and use Key Performance Indicators (KPI) to discuss key business conversations.

“Having a foreman who is engaged and has a positive mindset makes you enjoy what you do,” said Kendra Harris (X32), regarding her shift start with Barnes. “No matter what’s on your mind that morning, it gets you in a good vibe to be productive and share your experience with others to get them on board.”

Barnes encourages his fellow foreman by saying, “We as leaders have to model the behavior so our mechanics will also model that positive engaged behavior on the deckplate, which will quickly spread. One job, one goal.”

Over the course of this year, the Standards Team will share all 12 elements of COS/DPS Standards. For more information, visit the COS/DPS Standards SharePoint site, which includes a shift start video.