This week marks the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week, a time to spotlight the value apprentices bring to industry, something that Newport News Shipbuilding has realized for more than 100 years.

The Apprentice School at Newport News Shipbuilding was founded in 1919 and is among the most prominent apprenticeship programs in the nation. The school offers four-, five- and eight-year apprenticeships in 19 shipbuilding disciplines and eight advanced programs of study.

Below, three current NNS apprentices describe in their own words what the school means to their personal and professional development.

Amber Rose Storms (X32)

In 2019, I started hearing about The Apprentice School from 600 miles away in Kentucky. I heard that it was a place where people without a college degree or specialized training could grow a career. I was told that The Apprentice School could open opportunities that I knew I would never have access to in such a rural area with no bustling industries.

Although I was very nervous, I moved to Virginia and was accepted as an apprentice in 2022. On day one of my orientation, I learned that not only was everything I heard true, but there were so many more opportunities than I had ever imagined. They explained that if I worked hard, I could advance my career or move into another department such as design or marine engineering.

On day one of my apprenticeship, I decided to put in the work and not stop until I walk through every door that The Apprentice School opens for me. I love every minute of my apprenticeship, and I am so thankful that I moved 600 miles to be here. My apprenticeship is more than a job; it’s the organization that believes I can be successful and the people who care enough to help me get there.

I will graduate someday, but I will always be a proud apprentice.

Shaana “Shay” Thomas (X06)

Since starting my apprenticeship in October 2022, the opportunities for growth have been endless. I started my apprenticeship as an X42 pipefitter, then transferred to a salaried apprenticeship, rotating in both supply chain management and with The Apprentice School admissions team.

Each career move I’ve made has been intentional, aimed at removing any potential “no” from my path. I currently serve as the vice president of the Apprentice School Student Association. In this role, I oversee nine committees and six student-led clubs, working closely with team leads to guide activities, ensure collaboration, and provide strategic direction. Additionally, I serve as president of the Apprentice School Jaycees, where I help fellow students develop and strengthen their leadership skills, supporting those who aspire to make a difference. Both roles have deepened my skills as a servant leader and mentor, reinforcing my passion for community-building and growth.

Balancing academics, professional growth, and family life is a privilege I hold with care and commitment. As a mother of two, I aim to set a strong example. My 10-year-old daughter watches every move I make, and I hope to show her that ambition, resilience and education can open doors. My 6-year-old son, a young athlete, is learning that a clear path through education is as crucial as any game or sport. I hope to instill in them the same values of hard work and determination that I strive to embody each day.

Joining The Apprentice School is honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If there is anyone reading this who feels stuck in their career, I advise you to take the leap. If it was easy everyone would do it, and what’s the fun in that? Anything that holds value will come at a cost, but the return is definitely something you won’t regret.

R.J. Abercrombie (X18)

I first heard about the shipyard through my football coach during my senior year in 2020. I’m originally from Greenville, South Carolina, so discovering a school in Virginia that offered sports, free education and paid opportunities to weld was exactly what I was looking for.

I began my apprenticeship in September 2021, and it’s been an incredible journey since. There were times I wanted to quit, questioned why I joined and moved away from my family, and even doubted if this path was the right choice. But now, I can confidently say it was all worth it.

Currently, I am working as a long-term makeup foreman on aircraft carrier Enterprise (CVN 80), where every day brings something new. I face different obstacles to overcome and constantly solve problems to help build great ships. This role has taught me a lot and continues to push me, allowing me to grow within the company.

I’m learning a secure trade that helps me provide for my family. I’ve built new relationships, advanced my education both in and out of the shipyard and gained valuable exposure to many different areas of the shipyard and how they operate.

If it weren’t for the people who saw my potential and supported me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’m truly grateful to have joined The Apprentice School.