Ten years ago, the new Apprentice School opened at 3101 Washington Ave., putting a public face on a time-honored tradition of craft instruction at Newport News Shipbuilding.

Since its grand opening on Dec. 6, 2013, the building has hosted countless visitors, including prospective students and their families along with local and state leaders.

About one year after its grand opening, the school announced a partnership with Old Dominion University that allowed NNS apprentices to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical or electrical engineering while completing a marine engineer apprenticeship.

In 2021, the school was certified by the Council for Occupational Education to provide academic degrees in 26 educational programs. It allowed the school to grant associate degrees of applied science in maritime technology to apprentices who completed the required coursework and skills.

Dr. Latitia McCane, director of Education, recently reflected on the past decade and how far the school has come since its grand opening 10 years ago.

McCane cited the transformation of The Apprentice School from awarding certifications into a degree-granting institution as a major step forward. “I think that’s the biggest milestone,” she said.

Another positive: A sparkling building in downtown Newport News that puts The Apprentice School in the public eye, coupled with cosmetic changes that speak to the school’s rich history.

A bench in front of the school is dedicated to the late Danny Brookman, a Master Shipbuilder who spent decades nurturing apprentices’ careers. A landmark plaque along Washington Avenue provides historical context. An ongoing project allows alumni to purchase commemorative bricks in front of the school.

On the first floor, a displayed timeline traces important developments in the school’s 100-plus years. Awards given to top students were transferred from the third floor to the first floor, where visitors can appreciate them. Sports trophies are on display, a reminder that The Apprentice School is also known for its athletic accomplishments.

All of this creates a good first impression for prospective students and their parents. That’s key for recruitment.

“It’s a wow factor when they walk in,” McCane said.

A more substantive change has been the establishment of the Ray Bagley Innovation Lab. Harnessing the power of technology, the lab allows students to experience various shipbuilding trades in a safe and controlled environment. Work stations in the mobile lab can be moved into the adjacent gymnasium, transforming the gym into a work area.

“Since we’ve had this lab, foot traffic in the school has doubled, from corporate leaders all the way down to middle school students,” McCane said.

McCane noted how attitudes are changing toward career and technical education, and the school is part of that important shift. “Apprenticeships are seen as a rewarding path,” she said. “It’s a really hot topic.”