Last week, I had the opportunity to do my favorite job as president of Newport News Shipbuilding – interact with the thousands of shipbuilders who work tirelessly to build the best nuclear-powered ships in our U.S. Navy’s fleet.

Our town hall meetings gave me a forum to speak directly to our entire team about nuclear culture, continuous improvement and what it means to be a Newport News shipbuilder. Equally important, the town halls gave me a chance to reconnect. I swapped stories with old friends I’ve worked with throughout my career, and I engaged with new shipbuilders who promise a bright future for our shipyard. I met a former YMCA childcare provider, a previous Amazon warehouse manager, a former prison guard, a shipbuilder who was once a Great Wolf Lodge lifeguard, a few very recent high school graduates and so many others.

Meeting these new shipbuilders, and learning about their diverse backgrounds and their enthusiasm energized my confidence in our capabilities. It also reinforced my town hall message that if we learn from one another and recognize how our roles support our greater shipyard family, we will be successful. I’m sure of it.

Thank you all for a fun five days. I appreciated the memories, the candid conversation and your attention. Take a look at this gallery of images from the town hall meetings. I’m already counting the days until I can enjoy even more interaction with you – and your loved ones – at our Family Day this fall. Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks!

All the best,

Jennifer Boykin
President, Newport News Shipbuilding