Next Monday is Labor Day, and I want everyone to enjoy time off this long weekend with family and friends.
Next Monday also marks three months since I started here at Bath Iron Works. It has been an amazing experience so far, not only in terms of working here making the world’s most sophisticated warship, but also getting to know all of you. I have really enjoyed getting to know you. The conversations are usually lighthearted and informational all at the same time. It’s very nice to have open communications without any pretensions. These are small steps in building the relationships that will help us change the direction of our company.
As a new person to Maine, it’s been a lot of fun to learn about what people are doing outside of work. It helps me find new things to do in my time off. Keep sharing!
On Labor Day our country celebrates the workers who make our nation strong. Nothing is more fitting than to celebrate the work you do, which truly strengthens our national defense and our Navy. Thank you.
In the three months I’ve been here, I’ve spent as much time as I can out on the deckplates, seeing the great work so many of you accomplish each day.
Recently, it was impressive to watch as our rigging crews, carpenters, crane operators and a host of other people took delivery of several of the Vertical Launch Systems that make our destroyers such a powerful weapon in our Navy’s arsenal. This was a several-step process: they had to be lifted off of trucks, flipped and then placed on temporary footings. More than one crane was involved.
This is intricate, important work that takes knowledge, experience, focus and skill. It’s the kind of complex yet vital work we are called upon to do every day.
In one month, we will be having a special event to celebrate our Master Shipbuilders. These are our colleagues who have worked here for 40 years. It’s an incredible achievement to have worked for one company for 40 years. It also demonstrates their commitment to building ships for the Navy and our country.
We will be honoring them with an Open House on Oct. 1. I encourage all employees to attend and show your family a little of the remarkable work you do every day. It’s not often we get to show our family what we do, so please don’t miss the opportunity! My family always looks forward to these days to see where I work. I look forward to seeing you there!
As we head into this holiday weekend that celebrates the work you do, please remember to always work safely and also to have a safe holiday.
Happy Labor Day and thank you for doing your part to make the best Navy ships in the world.
Chuck
President, General Dynamics Bath Iron Works