6 | 13 | 2016
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Turns On Saturday, June 11, shipbuilders and the crew of Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) successfully turned the 21st-century aircraft carrier at Newport News Shipbuilding. Ford’s bow now faces the shipyard for the first time since her construction began. The turning of the ship is a major milestone in the life of an aircraft carrier, which facilitates final testing of the ship’s systems, including the aircraft launch system.
VCS Program Expects “Buckets of Savings” The Virginia-Class Submarine (VCS) Program recently implemented an idea that is expected to see “buckets of savings” for the company and reduce environmental impacts. For years, VCS foremen have received materials in metal 5-gallon buckets. After the materials are used, the buckets are then placed into a scrap metal skiff and thrown away. Employees Christopher Plummer (X84), Bob Lynn (X82) and Kenny Weeks (E83) came up with the idea of implementing a recycling program for the metal buckets, so that they can be reused multiple times before being scrapped. With lead effort from Process Improvement Analyst Randy Burak (X51) and support from the VCS Program, VCS Construction Management and Material Logistics, the new program called “Buckets of Savings” is now in full swing and recycling baskets have been strategically placed around the Modular Outfitting Facility (MOF), the Supplemental Modular Outfitting Facility (SMOF) and the Covered Modular Assembly Facility (CMAF). VCS Program Trades Director Willie Hayes recently cascaded a communication highlight to all VCS employees. “Recycling will always be a win-win… you eliminate cost on the purchase, on the disposal, and on the environment,” he said. “How can you not recycle?”
Joshua Jordan (X85) demonstrates where 5-gallon metal buckets are placed once they are ready to be recycled outside the SMOF. Photo by Chris Oxley