What was supposed to be a two-year stay at Ingalls has turned into a career spanning nearly three decades for Rodney Grace, general ship superintendent.
“To this day, I’m still motivated to help protect this country,” said Grace. “It's been quite a journey and I'm proud to be a part of it.”
While Grace has many responsibilities as general ship superintendent, his biggest priority is ensuring the safety of shipbuilders.
“They're the ones out there doing the work,” said Grace. “My job is to clear the path so they have everything they need to succeed.”
Throughout his career, Grace has held various jobs at Ingalls, including as a painter, maintenance, hull, welding and as boat foreman. With so many tools under his belt, he understands issues from the deckplate perspective.
“It helps me understand the struggles shipbuilders have on their day-to-day tasks,” he said. “I can relate to the obstacles because I’ve been there.”
Grace’s role is twofold. By meeting the needs of those on the deckplate, he is also able to help Ingalls meet goals for safety, quality, cost, and schedule.
“It’s just absolutely amazing to see what a ship starts off as and what it means,” said Grace. “Seeing that raw piece of steel coming in the shipyard and watching the transformation over the years is truly a gratifying experience.”
As Grace continues his career, he wants to pass down knowledge to other shipbuilders so the 85-year legacy of Ingalls continues its mission of building world-class ships.
“I’ve made a decent living, met my wife here, and I’m capable of providing for my family,” said Grace. “To inspire other shipbuilders and watch them succeed in this company is the icing on the cake for me. Ingalls has truly been a blessing in my life.”
Map out your future at Ingalls to help grow the career you want. Ingalls Craft Career Corps can help you reach your goals. Click here to schedule an appointment. For more information or questions, email Ingalls_Craft_Career_Corps@hii-ingalls.com or call ext. 3532.