Shipbuilders on DDG 131 were honored with a special appreciation lunch after successfully completing Air Conditioning Light-Off (ACLO).
Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette and Donny Dorsey, Vice President of Operations, were in attendance at the lunch, underscoring the significance of the accomplishment and the pride leadership has in the team.
“Credibility is key. Doing what we say we’re going to do goes a long way,” said Brian. “We recognize you when you deliver a win for this team. Thank you for your part in this milestone—and in the next one, and the next one. Let’s keep going to the finish line. It’s good to see DDG production lining up again.”
Donny echoed that message, emphasizing the team’s reliability and follow-through.
“You said you were going to do something by a certain time, and you did it,” he said. “When we say something’s going to get done, it gets done. That credibility matters more than anything. This milestone sets up all the others, and you hit it exactly when you said you would. Thank you.”
Ship Program Manager Chad Barlow also highlighted the impact the milestone will have on shipbuilders across the deckplate.
“We’ll have cold air on the ship because of your hard work,” he said. “That’s why we push to get AC light-off when we do—so our craftsmen can work in safer, more comfortable conditions during the heat of summer in South Mississippi. Everyone on the ship will appreciate what you accomplished.”
Electrician Jaren Banks, who supported the effort, reflected on the teamwork that carried the group to success.
“I’ve been doing this for 12 years, and this is the hardest AC light-off I’ve been a part of,” he said. “There were so many things that had to fall into place. My goal was just to make sure the team had what they needed. Whatever they asked for, I tried to get it for them.”
The lunch provided a moment to not only celebrate a significant milestone but to also serve as a reminder of what Ingalls shipbuilders can accomplish together.