For more than 13 years, Wendy Dickson has been the face behind the counter at Anchor Apparel, helping shipbuilders purchase company-themed gear.
Dickson is the lead at Ingalls’ logo store and is responsible for all of the inventory and sales.
It’s a role that has grown over the years, with a greater selection of merchandise being added to the store. Now with a more accessible storefront in Admin 3 next to Payroll, Anchor Apparel is doing more business than ever.
For Dickson, it’s more than just selling merchandise with the Ingalls logo on it; it’s about being able to connect with shipbuilders individually and helping them display the pride they have in working for Ingalls.
“I get to meet so many people and hear their stories and learn about why they are purchasing the items they are buying, whether they are gifts or for themselves,” said Dickson. “It helps me learn more about them and gives me a feel for what kind of items our shipbuilders are looking for.”
It’s that attention to detail that is helping Dickson be so successful. With the Ingalls brand refresh rolling out this past November and the logo store’s move to its new location that same month, Anchor Apparel is exceeding sales goals. Behind the cash register keeping careful track of each item is Dickson.
“It really encourages me to keep going. It’s exciting,” she said. “I have been able to really learn over the years so I can do a better job for myself and for our shipbuilders who shop here.”
Because all items are sold at cost, Ingalls does not profit off of the items, ensuring that shipbuilders are able to get merchandise at the lowest price possible.
Anchor Apparel inside Admin 3 is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Admin 3 store is closed and Dickson is at the CSA III location from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Come meet Wendy Dickson today and browse the shelves at Anchor Apparel!
