Newport News, Virginia-based Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries, a major designer, builder and refueler of United States Navy aircraft carriers and submarines, has announced a major reduction in force that impacts 314 salaried employees and the demotion of 119 managers.
According to company president Jennifer Boykin, "Today is a tough day as we say goodbye to 314 fellow shipbuilders as part of a layoff impacting our salaried workforce. This is the first workforce reduction we’ve experienced in five years and comes after a thorough assessment of our business. This decision, along with the demotion of an additional 119 managers, more evenly distributes management spans and reshapes production and support ratios.”
“It is important to stress that our future remains strong even in the midst of today’s news. We will continue hiring for specific, critical positions. While these are very difficult decisions, they are necessary cost controls to help ensure the future of our shipyard and the affordability of the ships we build.“
While there haven't been any early changes in President Biden's defense policy, it is anticipated that defense budgets may be reduced to pay for social programs.
Change is coming. There will always be a tomorrow, no matter how much you may try to ignore it. There are no guarantees in life or promises for a bright future. Just because something bad hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it won't. It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. No one is guaranteed to wake up tomorrow and still have a job by evening. Are you now wondering, Am I Next?