Shipbuilders,

Sunday marks 138 years since Newport News Shipbuilding was founded by Collis P. Huntington. On Jan. 28, 1886, the Virginia General Assembly authorized a charter allowing what was then known as the Chesapeake Dry Dock and Construction Co. to purchase land, build a dry dock and begin building and repairing ships.

So much has changed since our shipyard was founded, but our commitment of “Always Good Ships” remains the same. Our current workload is unprecedented, and we tackle complex, difficult challenges every day. As I often say, shipbuilding is a noble profession, but it certainly isn’t easy. That’s why I’m so grateful for the 25,000 NNS shipbuilders who work to provide the U.S. Navy with the world’s best nuclear-powered ships.

It is an honor to lead the team continuing this proud legacy of shipbuilding while supporting our national defense. Thank you for everything you do to support our mission.

All the best,
Jennifer Boykin
President, Newport News Shipbuilding

The photo below is an overall view of Newport News Shipbuilding taken in May 1891. You may recognize several buildings that are still in use today. El Sud, the third ship built at NNS, is under construction in the foreground.