When seconds count, shipbuilders respond. Emergencies in the workplace can unfold without warning, and what we do in those first few moments can make all the difference.
Safety. Responsibility. Integrity. Teamwork. Fire marshal Mikale Fairley put all four into action when he spotted a shipbuilder in distress.
Icy conditions led to the deck of the ship being closed off for safety. Mikale was performing a routine surveillance walk when he noticed a shipbuilder at the ship’s edge in an area that had been red‑taped. Mikale immediately knew something was wrong.
“I kept calling out to him and he didn’t respond. That’s when I took off running,” he recalled.
When he reached the shipbuilder, Mikale realized it was a medical emergency. His quick actions helped secure the shipbuilder, get him to safety and get him help.
LIVING OUR VALUES
For his actions, Mikale was recognized with an Ethical Excellence Award for upholding and demonstrating Ingalls’ values—integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance.
His supervisor and nominator Avery Moore, Fire Prevention & Safety manager, said Mikale’s actions that day came as no surprise.
“Mr. Fairley approaches every task with professionalism, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility,” said Avery. “His positive attitude, collaborative spirit and commitment to maintaining high standards make him an invaluable asset to the team and a model of the behavior our organization strives to uphold.”
It’s recognition that means a lot to Mikale.
“Ingalls has supported me when I wanted to move from Paint to Safety, paid for my schooling and certifications, and they noticed what happened that day on LHA 9,” he said. “It means a lot that they pour so much back into us.”
A MESSAGE FOR SHIPBUILDERS
So, what’s the number one piece of safety advice Mikale would offer fellow shipbuilders?
“Situational awareness,” he says without hesitation. “Pay attention. The Safety team are not the bad guy. We just want everyone to go home safe. Accountability matters. This is a dangerous environment, and we all have to look out for each other.”
Every day, shipbuilders like Mikale prove that our values aren’t just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we protect each other.
See someone upholding our company values? Nominate them by submitting Command Media Form C-941 or by asking your foreman.