After more than four decades at Ingalls, one conversation still stands out to Johnny Brown, Research & Development engineer.
It wasn't a ship delivery or a major milestone. It was a disagreement. But it’s not the problem Johnny remembers—it’s the civility.
A Lesson That Lasted
While working in Field Engineering, Johnny helped resolve technical issues between Ingalls and Supervisor of Shipbuilding (SUPSHIP). During one discussion about accepting work inside a tank, he and a quality assurance representative disagreed.
What stayed with Johnny wasn't the disagreement. It was the respect they showed each other.
"It taught me how important listening is," he said. "We couldn't agree, but we could understand each other’s side and were able to respect each other's position. That's the key: understanding someone's concern, especially when safety is involved.”
A Career Built on Respect
Johnny hired into Ingalls through the Pipe apprentice program in 1986 and eventually spent nearly 20 years in Field Engineering, where that lesson shaped how he approached solving problems alongside shipbuilders from every trade.
Along the way, he learned that professionalism isn't defined by whether people always agree. It's defined by how they treat one another when they don't.
"Sometimes you just have to pause the conversation before it becomes a bigger issue," he said. "And honestly, sometimes the best strategy is to be quiet altogether—bite your tongue, stay disciplined and remain calm. We're often so quick to speak. We need to get better at listening."
Just like any trade, working well with others is a skill that improves with practice.
"Practice self-discipline. Learn to listen. Don't always try to have the last word," advised Johnny. "Know when to end a conversation and walk away. Every situation won't have a winner—sometimes you just let it be."
A Commitment to Readiness
For Johnny, respect and discipline don't stop with how people treat one another. They also shape the way he approaches shipbuilding.
When asked what he would name a ship, he didn't choose a person's name. Instead, he chose a purpose: USS Commitment to Readiness.
"It means showing up prepared, acting professionally, focusing on quality and understanding that this job isn't just a paycheck. These ships protect our country, and that protection starts right here at Ingalls."