In 2010, Lanetta Fantroy, test engineer, was a single mother of four, part of a family with a deep tradition in shipbuilding. Fast forward 15 years, not only did she follow in her family’s footsteps, two of her children now work in the shipyard and another one serving on an Ingalls built ship in the Navy!
Driven by the desire for success, Lanetta began her shipbuilding journey as a painter.
“As a mother, my kids were counting on me to provide,” said Lanetta. “Giving them the best life possible was my top priority.”
In her current role with Test & Trials, Lanetta currently oversees the ballast/deballast, main & secondary drain, and stern gate operations. Her job ensures operating systems aboard all vessels are world-class.
“We collectively help and assist each other because we have one goal, and that’s to deliver a quality ship for the nation,” said Lanetta. “We maintain the integrity of the Navy by adhering to strict guidelines and protocols that the customer, Navy, and Ingalls as whole deliver to our sailors.”
Lanetta has always appreciated the opportunities Ingalls provided her, but now she has a greater sense of purpose in her career in many ways. Lanetta gained a new perspective when she found out her daughter in the Navy was assigned to USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28), a ship built here at Ingalls!
"It’s cool to say my daughter is protecting our freedom on one of our ships,” said Lanetta. “It gives me great pride knowing every effort was made to ensure the ship performs at its best."
Mentorship and volunteerism also gives Lanetta purpose in the shipyard. She tailors her approach to shipbuilders based on their experience and is an Ingalls Champion, the volunteer program supporting shipyard and community events. Lanetta’s success has inspired two of her children to become shipbuilders.
“I’ve helped my son, Ryheim Walley, and my daughter, Markia Hawthorne understand what’s expected and the opportunities that come with following guidelines, especially those related to safety,” said Lanetta. “Their desire to pursue a career here is a testament to my determination, hard work and dedication to provide for them.”