Four MCC Graduates Secure Jobs at Newport News Shipyard

Four MCC graduates have recently been employed or are awaiting start dates at Newport News Shipyard (NNSY). Molique Dedmon and Tyshon Smallwood have already started their positions, while Jeremiah Stephenson and Semaj Smith have completed their training. Smith is scheduled to start mid-September, and Stephenson will start soon after. Dedmon, Smallwood, and Stephenson earned a Welding Certificate, while Smith earned an Automotive Certificate. All four graduates attended Bertie High School and obtained their certificates through MCC's Career & College Promise (CCP) Program while completing their high school education.

Shameka Hayes (MCC Career Coach), Manika Parker (MCC Director of High School Programs), and Natasha Roberson (MCC Career Center Director) all played crucial roles in guiding students through the program. Dr. Tiwanna Greene from NNSY has been an essential part as well by assisting these graduates during the hiring process. Dr. Greene has extensive knowledge of small rural areas and aspires to make sure students from these areas are well informed of what NNSY offers.

NNSY is part of Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), the largest shipbuilder in the United States, and a global, all-domain defense provider. NNSY's mission is to "deliver the world's most powerful ships and all domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world." Their values prioritize integrity, safety, responsibility, performance, and more.

MCC's Welding Program has multiple career pathways for students. This includes an Associates in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Welding, as well as a Welding Diploma, and Certificates in both Basic and Intermediate Welding Technology. High school students can earn their Welding Diploma and/or Certificates through MCC's Welding Program.

MCC's Automotive Program also has multiple career pathways for students. MCC's Automotive Program offers an A.A.S. Degree in Automotive Systems Technology, as well as a Diploma, and Certificates in Engine Management, Suspension & Steering, and Basic Transportation Technician. High School students can earn their Automotive Diploma and/or Certificates through MCC's Automotive Program.

MCC's mission is to build better futures by providing affordable, accessible, quality educational programs and workforce development in a student-centered environment in order to meet the community's needs. The College is committed to ensuring student success and providing quality education that allows students to achieve their future and career goals.