Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro visited Newport News' Apprentice School in Virginia to observe its role in constructing the PCU John F. Kennedy, one of the world’s most capable aircraft carriers.
During their visit, Secretaries Su and Del Toro emphasized their commitment to strengthening the Department of Defense’s workforce. "Our partnership with the U.S. Navy will enhance the quality of jobs for workers who play an essential role in protecting our nation," said Acting Secretary Su. "The Department of Labor is committed to making sure our Navy has the strongest, most diverse and skilled workforce needed to ensure military readiness and modernization."
The collaboration between the U.S. Navy and the Department of Labor aims to advance Secretary Del Toro’s Maritime Statecraft Initiative by creating high-quality jobs crucial for national security. This initiative incorporates practices from the departments of Labor and Commerce’s Good Jobs Principles to fill an estimated 10,000 jobs annually over the next decade in the maritime industry.
"The U.S. Navy’s investments in job quality will help reinvigorate America’s comprehensive maritime power," stated Secretary Del Toro. "With skilled workers representing America at its best, our defense industrial base and maritime ecosystem will continue to thrive with recognized ingenuity and dedication."
Good Jobs Principles aim to create equitable access to good jobs by reaching underserved populations, thereby building a skilled, diverse workforce essential for strengthening the U.S. Navy amid intense strategic competition.
As part of his Maritime Statecraft strategy, Secretary Del Toro is involving organized labor as a key stakeholder in bolstering America’s maritime power. The Navy is piloting a program training experienced union welders for a rotational expeditionary workforce supporting shipyards nationwide. In October, 169 union welders will begin work on PCU John F. Kennedy at Newport News.
This joint effort seeks several outcomes:
- Expanded equitable workforce development pathways through pre-apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs.
- Broader partnerships with the Department of Labor's Job Corps program.
- Developed partnerships with agencies such as Employment and Training Administration, Veterans Employment and Training Service, and Women’s Bureau aligned with Good Jobs Principles.
Founded in 1919, Newport News Shipbuilding's Apprentice School offers advanced programs in 19 shipbuilding disciplines over four to eight years. Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education and registered with Virginia Apprenticeship Council, it allows apprentices to earn college credit while receiving competitive pay and benefits.
