It’s amazing what can happen when individuals discover their purpose, especially when it enhances what we do at Ingalls. In September 2006, Kendrick Dunckley realized he was destined to be an Ingalls shipbuilder.
“After graduating from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, I ended up getting another job as a photo lab specialist,” said Dunckley. “I knew I needed a better paying job, something stable where I could support my family.”
Starting out as a Joiner/Insulator apprentice, the Moss Point native finished the four-year program and became a first-class joiner. From there, he gained experience as a material man, work leaderman and foreman.
“I was a foreman for four years and was promoted to general foreman,” said Dunckley. “I’ve been in this position for two years, and I’m currently training to become a superintendent.”
As a general foreman, Dunckley makes sure his crew has the proper material to continue work on the deckplate. However, he believes his biggest responsibility is meeting his team in the middle and understanding the ins and outs of the shipyard.
“I've been in the position of coming in and trying to work your way up,” he said. “I never forgot where I came from. So, I can relate to a lot of people.”
Gaining knowledge as a material man prepared Dunckley for his current role. Combining his yard experience with humility helps him earn the trust and respect of his peers in the shipyard. He thrives on setting other shipbuilders up for success.
“I enjoy teaching and seeing people reap the benefits of learning from me,” said Dunckley. “As long as they have determination to learn, the opportunities are endless here.”
Dunckley moved up the ranks of the shipyard by soaking up knowledge, always asking questions and staying focused on the tasks at hand.
“The most important thing is staying safe and respecting the people you work with,” said Dunckley. “Have your priorities in order and focus on the reason you’re here.”
When a shipbuilder joins his crew, Dunckley stresses to them the importance of building world-class ships for Sailors protecting our nation. He sets the tone for what is expected from the Ingalls standard.
“I tell my crew the last thing those sailors need is to be worried if something we built is defective,” he said. “Would you want this ship to sail off knowing you’re responsible for something going wrong?”
It can be easy to get caught up in the daily challenges life may bring, but Dunckley never loses sight of the mission. He puts on his steel toes with pride, understanding his purpose and knowing the work he does makes a difference.
“I’m proud to walk out those gates knowing my crew gave everything they had to a vessel,” said Dunckley. “When we deliver a ship, we know we did everything in our power to make sure it sails away and that our military return home safe from whatever task they undertake.”
Map out your future at Ingalls to help grow the career you want. Ingalls Craft Career Corps can help you reach your goals. Click here to schedule an appointment. For more information or questions, email Ingalls_Craft_Career_Corps@hii-ingalls.com or call ext. 3532.