WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Navy has awarded over $50 million towards workforce development and capital improvement initiatives at Bath Iron Works and Huntington Ingalls shipyards. This incentive, in alignment with the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act language, represents the Navy’s cost share in the crucial investment in both labor and capital necessary for achieving cost and schedule improvements.
The DDG 51 multi-year procurement contracts for Fiscal Year 2023 include a Navy Shipbuilding Workforce Development Incentive clause for both shipyards. The designated funding will support essential enhancements in various areas. Key focal points include workforce housing and transportation, expansion of local talent pipeline programs, long-term outreach to middle school and high school programs, facilities modifications in support of workforce development, attraction and retention bonus programs, and augmented on-the-job training.
“By investing in our workforce and upgrading crucial infrastructure, we’re laying the groundwork for a stronger future at both the Bath Iron works and the Huntington Ingalls shipyards,” said Capt. Seth Miller, DDG 51 class program manager, Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. “This incentive is about investing in the hardworking employees, providing better opportunities, and making these shipyards even more efficient and effective places to work.”
This co-investment and steadfast Congressional backing is anticipated to yield tangible improvements, fostering stability, and driving enhanced overall performance at both shipyards.