OCT15-05: PSNS & IMF Recognizes 169 Newly Graduated Apprentices
From Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility Public Affairs
BREMERTON, Wash. ― The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF) Apprentice Program graduated 169 students Oct. 9 at the Bremerton High School Performing Arts Center. The four-year Apprentice Program trains employees in 28 different trades such as welder, pipefitter, electrician, machinist, rigger, fabric worker and metal inspectors through formal classroom trade theory training and on-the-job work experience.
"This is the finale of a long and at times grueling program for these graduates," said Fred Buxton, master of ceremonies and PSNS & IMF workforce manager. "The demanding academic requirements and standards of our Apprentice Program form the foundation of these individuals for future success."
Partnering with Olympic College in Bremerton, Wash., PSNS & IMF apprentices complete courses in math, English, physics, technical design, and human relations, as well as studies in the trades. This year, 87 percent of the students graduated with a 3.5 grade point average or higher.
PSNS & IMF Commander Capt. Mark R. Whitney congratulated the apprentices at the ceremony and discussed what this milestone means to the command.
"Tradition, heritage, legacy...these are strong, powerful words that describe the history of PSNS & IMF. What got us here is dedication, craftsmanship, honor, pride, diversity, integrity, and leadership," Whitney said. "These words describe you and what it took to get you to this evening's event. It is my expectation that these words also describe what is needed of you in the future."
The Apprentice Program at PSNS & IMF began in 1901 and has produced more than 8,500 graduates.