Ingalls Shipbuilding was in the regional spotlight this week as President Brian Blanchette joined WLOX’s News This Week to discuss the shipyard’s growing workload, expanding production capabilities, and critical role in supporting the U.S. Navy.
With multiple ship classes currently in construction or modernization at Ingalls, Blanchette emphasized how Ingalls’ mission has become even more meaningful given today’s global security environment.
“We’ve always recognized the criticality of the work we do. We’re used to seeing our ships on the news around the globe, and that’s even more true now as the need becomes more significant,” said Blanchette. “We want our people to know they’re part of something much bigger than themselves and that they’re really supporting a nationwide effort to protect freedom and protect democracy.”
During the interview, Blanchette highlighted several key themes:
• Increased production activity:
Ingalls has 13 ships under construction and another 11 under contract. Keeping launches, christenings and sea trials moving at a steady pace, including the recent delivery of DDG 128 and DDG 1000 milestones.
• Expanding shipbuilding capabilities:
Ingalls is accelerating production through new technology investments and expanded “distributed shipbuilding” partnerships along the Gulf Coast, allowing DDG units to be built offsite and integrated in production Pascagoula.
• Talent and workforce growth:
Blanchette spotlighted Ingalls’ 18% wage increase under the new union agreement—supporting retention, recruiting and career growth. He also celebrated the recent graduation of 70 apprentices from the Ingalls Apprentice School, calling it “a great deal” for anyone seeking a long-term career with hands-on experience, academic instruction and leadership training.
• Security and safety focus:
Amid ongoing global tensions, Ingalls has increased security measures and strengthened collaboration with local, state, and federal authorities to protect its people and facilities.
Blanchette closed by emphasizing that shipbuilding remains a stable, meaningful career path. Even with new technologies being introduced across the shipyard, those tools are designed to enhance, not replace our skilled workforce. With decades of work ahead, our craft and our people remain at the center of Ingalls’ future.
We encourage you to watch the full interview. It’s a great reminder of the importance of your work, the momentum across our facilities, and the pride we share in building the world’s most capable ships.
Thank you for the important work you do in support of the U.S. Navy and our nation.
Click the video above to watch.