When Operations functional support representative Barbara Watkins first learned her son Colby Ward was autistic, she was told he wouldn’t be able to talk or handle day-to-day life on his own. Now, Colby is a proud shipbuilder who uses his voice to break the barriers of autism.
Colby’s shipbuilder journey began because of his dad, Tim Watkins, painter. There’s a long generational history of Watkins shipbuilders that have contributed to the Ingalls legacy. Inspired by Tim’s work as a painter, Colby had one thing on his mind after graduating from Pascagoula High School in 2019.
“I wanted to be in the shipyard with him,” said Colby. “Shortly after I was hired on, my mom joined us out here. So, this is really our home away from home.”
Now a rust machine operator, Colby spreads positivity and encouragement with everyone in the shipyard he meets. From helping new hires to lending a helping hand when needed, his uplifting attitude inspires those around him.
“I help new shipbuilders find their way and help them understand the day-to-day operations in the shipyard,” said Colby. “I try to make sure everyone around me is having a good day. If not, what can I do to fix that?”
Colby’s influence at Ingalls always gets back to his parents. Tim often hears about the impact his son has had on fellow shipbuilders.
“It makes me proud to watch him come out here and make something of himself,” said Tim. “His outlook on life starts at home with us, so it feels good when people tell us we did a good job not only raising a good man, but a good human being, as well.”
From a very young age, Barbara knew Colby was born to shine. She never let his autism diagnosis define him or get in the way of him living his best life.
“Even before this interview, Colby walked up to me and said ‘Mom, I just want to thank you for never giving up on me’,” said Barbara. “I told my baby giving up isn’t in our DNA because the more people who said he couldn’t make it, the more I pushed and ensured he was destined for greatness.”
Because of his strong support system, Colby remains motivated to debunk the stigma that often surrounds autism. He wants to set a new standard, leading by example and enthusiasm.
“With all the challenges in the world right now, I decided I’m doing this for everyone who will come after me,” said Colby. “Not every day looks like sunshine. It’s going to storm sometimes, but you have to grab that umbrella, put on a raincoat and keep pushing through.”
Want to highlight a fellow shipbuilder or share your own unique story? Email Jaylon.Morris@hii.com with your suggestion!