With a knack for learning and teaching others, Aaron Alford, general foreman, Shipfitting, personifies leadership in the shipyard. Influencing shipbuilders in a positive way is what drives him each day.
Aaron began his shipbuilder journey as a helper apprentice (HA). With consistency and fantastic work ethic, he is currently the bridge between different management roles.
“I interact with superintendents and general superintendents and we have to relay all kinds of information back to the foremen,” said Aaron. “Communication that gets passed down to the deckplate is a key piece to building these vessels.”
In his 11 years as a shipbuilder, Aaron has enjoyed crafting his leadership style. With five different generations working together in the shipyard, the true challenge is tailoring his teachings.
“My children are grown so I have experience in communicating with the younger shipbuilders,” said Aaron. “Now, I am not their parent, but it takes that nurturing skill to inspire them and figure out who they are, what they want out of life and the goals they are striving to accomplish.”
Aaron has always been fascinated by seeing pieces of steel develop into an incredible vessel. The teamwork component of the process makes his job even more impressive and fulfilling.
“Putting people in positions to be successful is what the shipyard is all about,” said Aaron. “That’s what has made my job enjoyable throughout the years.”
Through the daily hustle and bustle, shipbuilders can easily underestimate the magnitude of their purpose. However, Aaron wants all shipbuilders to understand the impact they have on our freedom.
“Not everyone can do what we do on a daily basis and that’s something we can never take for granted,” said Aaron. “Ask questions, be engaged and learn everything you can to make the most out of your opportunities in the shipyard.”