Shipbuilding is ever evolving, and Julie McDonald is at the forefront of that transformation. By introducing advanced 3D scanning and pushing for digital innovation, she’s redefining how Ingalls supports the Navy fleet.
Julie’s path to Ingalls began after college, working as a subcontractor between projects while gaining experience on major programs. This included the ground-up design of the USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000).
“I worked here for a couple of years and they gave me the choice come on direct,” said Julie. “15 years later and I still love what I do each and every day.”
Julie eventually stepped into a manager role shortly after accepting her designer position. When it comes to keeping the Navy’s fleet mission-ready, the design engineering group plays a critical role behind the scenes.
“We maintain and upgrade and overhaul existing ships that are in the Navy fleet,” said Julie. “Some of them we built here and some of them were built in other places, but we have five different contracts now through that program.”
The integration of 3D scanning is a highlight of Julie’s career. Her primary focus is advancing technology that empowers her team to produce the highest‑quality ships.
“We would eventually like to see 3D at every stage of construction out here where we could build a digital twin of the ship.” said Julie.
Her pride in the mission runs deep. Building ships that safeguard our nation feels personal, because the people she loves are the very ones she’s helping protect. Service has always been part of her life, and now she contributes in her own way—by helping build ships that keep America’s defenders safe.
“When we build these ships, I always remind myself that this is their home,” said Julie. “It means a lot to me on a personal level to be able to keep those people safe as they keep our country safe.”