What is Level Up?
Level Up is a plan to ensure represented shipbuilders progressing to the journeymen level have the skills and abilities required to perform work. During training, expectations are set for new hires about skills needed at 4th Class, and progression through the system includes periodic discussion of Skills Review documentation with foremen. To Level Up to 1st Class, shipbuilders must complete identified requirements.
Does Level Up affect current journeyman-level shipbuilders?
No. Level Up will not affect current journeymen-level shipbuilders.
How does the Level Up process work?
Applicants are interviewed, assessed, and placed into the appropriate Skill Level during the hiring process. The assigned Skill Level serves as a starting point within the Level Up framework. At 4th Class level, shipbuilders discuss Skills Review documentation with their foreman, who helps identify the knowledge or skills needed to advance. Foremen make reasonable efforts to provide the needed opportunities for progression.
When will Level Up begin?
Level Up takes effect on July 20, 2026.
What crafts are part of Level Up?
Level Up applies to all crafts with a 1st Class designation. Hull & Pipe will implement Level Up first, followed by Electrical. The remaining crafts will be phased in afterward.
What is Skills Review Documentation?
At the 4th Class level, shipbuilders review this document with their foreman to stay informed of required knowledge and skills for advancement. The documentation tracks completion of these discussions, and foremen provide reasonable opportunities for shipbuilders to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
What if a shipbuilder does not want to Level Up to 1st Class?
Shipbuilders who decline training or skill-building opportunities sign a Skill Level Validation form. This does not disqualify them from future Level Up progression.
What is the Skill Level Validation Form?
It is a document shipbuilders sign if they decline offered training.
How does Level Up work with the hours requirement for advancement?
The required hours worked in a craft remain a requirement for pay progression and advancement to the journeymen level.
What is required to reach 1st Class?
Shipbuilders must:
• Complete Blueprint Reading or craft equivalent before journeymen status (CLEP testing is available)
• Complete Occupational Math before journeymen status (CLEP testing is available)
• Pass a hands-on assessment equivalent to the assessment required of a direct hire while at Skill Level 66.
• Pass a written assessment equivalent to the assessment required of a direct hire while at Skill Level 66.
What happens if a shipbuilder fails an assessment?
Shipbuilders who do not pass an assessment are considered red-lined and are not eligible for 1st Class pay. They must develop the additional skills or knowledge needed to meet the requirements for that pay level. Pay progression is paused until all requirements are met.
Shipbuilders may retest after completing an additional 500 hours of work and are eligible for up to two retests. If an employee does not pass after two retests, follow-up coaching and feedback will occur after an additional 1,000 hours of work.
What is my foreman’s role?
Foremen will review Skills Review Documentation with 4th Class shipbuilders, keep them informed of the knowledge and skills required for advancement, and make reasonable efforts to provide opportunities for skill development.
