HII has closed on its acquisition of an advanced manufacturing facility and assets and begun work at its Newport News Shipbuilding — Charleston Operations site in South Carolina.

Matt Needy, vice president of Charleston Operations, addressed Charleston employees this week and described what lies ahead. More than 70 NNS subject matter experts have traveled to Charleston in the last two months to help pave the way, he said.

“We have more than 10 trucks outside, loaded with NNS material waiting to begin production,” he said. “As promised, we will start work on our first aircraft carrier units and submarine modules within the next two weeks, so it is absolutely critical that we all get ready.”

Employees have begun seeing changes. New NNS Charleston Operations signs have been posted, as well as Mission Starts With Us banners.

“This isn’t just a slogan,” Needy said. “It’s a mindset that guides our every action.”

In a statement, HII President and CEO Chris Kastner said “HII is committed to going where the labor is to increase shipbuilding capacity and increase throughput for our national security customers.”

HII announced last month its intent to acquire the facility and associated assets. Since then, more than 99% of the legacy workforce have accepted offers to continue to work on site, supporting the construction of nuclear-powered submarine modules and aircraft carrier units for U.S. Navy programs.

As the newest employees to join NNS, the excitement in Charleston was evident.

“It’s a really ecstatic time for everybody,” said Zaaq Goode, a talent acquisition specialist. “We’re excited for a new chapter, and for bigger and better things. I think we all feel fortunate to be part of this big leap.”

Carson Woodard, a machinist, considered joining the military at one point in his career. He ended up staying closer to home, but now he’s happy to be a part of NNS and its mission of helping to defend the country.

“It feels nice being able to do your part,” he said. “You’re coming to work and making something that other people’s lives depend upon. It makes you care about it that much more.”

Working closely with the South Carolina state and regional leadership, HII plans to create hundreds of additional jobs to support the increased demand and growth at the Charleston facility.

In addition to existing trained talent, HII’s acquisition also provides:

• Advanced production facilities with state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, tooling and infrastructure used to fabricate complex metal modules and structures.
• Facility location on 45-acres with more than 480,000 square feet of manufacturing space.
• Access to barge and rail transportation.
• Access in nearby Charleston and surrounding region to rapidly growing shipbuilding ecosystem and capacity to expand a highly skilled maritime trades workforce.

To view a video of Needy’s address and comments from employees, go here.