Portsmouth, VA – Facing a projected shortage of over 400,000 skilled welders by 2030, the Hampton Roads Flag of the U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program and Project MFG teamed up to host the fourth annual Career Discovery Day and Maritime Welding Competition on February 18, 2026, at Tidewater Community College’s Skilled Trades Academy. This signature event aimed to inspire the next generation of skilled trades professionals and create direct career pathways for students across the region.
The event connected over 100 candidates with 18 manufacturing companies, offering students a chance to explore high-demand career pathways in maritime and manufacturing industries.
“Today is about exposure, connection, and opportunity as well as seeing the skills in action, meeting employers face-to-face, and exploring the pathways that can lead to strong, lasting careers,” said Renee McNichol, Hampton Roads Talent Pipeline Program Flag Lead.
Keynote speaker Captain Nick Levine, Program Manager for In-Service Attack Submarines of the U.S. Navy, urged students to seize new opportunities and approach their futures with confidence. “It’s an exciting time to be in the skilled trades,” said Levine.
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council generously sponsored transportation for candidates to tour local manufacturing facilities. During visits to Tecnico Corporation, Bauer Compressors, and Bay Metals & Fabrication, students gained firsthand exposure to modern industry practices.
Interactive workshops led by Old Dominion University introduced students to internships and co-ops in skilled trades and maritime careers, helping them explore options before committing to long-term career paths. Interactive demonstrations from Newport News Shipbuilding—featuring hands-on activities—offered attendees unique insight into the future of skilled trades and manufacturing.
A highlight of the day was the Project MFG Maritime Welding Competition, where 22 students from local high schools and vocational programs demonstrated their welding skills for a chance to win top prizes.
“The skills you’re demonstrating today are so important to this country,” said Eric Jabs, Program Manager, Program Executive Office, Undersea Warfare Systems, Team Submarine, U.S. Navy (Retired), during the competition safety briefing.
Industry professionals from Advex Corporation, Q.E.D Systems, Bay Metals & Fabrication, and James River Mechanical served as judges, evaluating entries based on weld quality, measurement precision, and strict adherence to safety protocols—reflecting real-world industry standards.
Competition winners included:
First Place: John Smith — New Horizons CTE – Woodside Lane
Second Place: Chris Cook — New Horizons CTE – Woodside Lane
Third Place: Austin Miller — Advanced Technology Institute
All three winners were invited to compete in Project MFG’s National Maritime Championship in San Diego, California.
“Events like today’s competition strengthen the ecosystem by bringing students, educators, employers, and industry leaders together to celebrate the skill, innovation, and opportunities of our future workforce,” said Laura Hanson, Associate Vice President, Workforce Solutions, Tidewater Community College.
Career Discovery Day 2026 reinforced the value of vocational education and demonstrated how partnerships between educators and employers can help address the nation’s workforce challenges.
The U.S. Navy remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen the American economy and build sustainable talent pipelines for future generations.
For more information about future events or to get involved with the U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program, visit https://dibtalentpipeline.com.