Metal Trades Workers at Philly Shipyard Cut First Steel on NSMV

Metal Trades Workers at Philly Shipyard Cut First Steel on NSMV

METAL TRADES
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Metal Trades Workers at Philly Shipyard Cut First Steel on NSMV

NSMV I Start of Fabrication Ceremony – December 15, 2020
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TOTE Services and Philly Shipyard achieved the first construction milestone moving toward a new era in maritime education with the cutting of steel for the new National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) at Philly Shipyard. Includes remarks by Jeff Dixon, President, TOTE Services; Rear Admiral Mark H. Buzby, Administrator, U.S. DOT MARAD; and Steinar Nerbovik President & CEO, Philly Shipyard.

On December 15, 2020 Metal Trades Workers at the Philly Shipyard began construction of the new National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV). The NSMV will be used as a training facility for America’s future mariners and, as needed, to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

“This new state-of-the-art modern school training ship will be a tremendous addition to the U.S. Flag fleet, be available to respond to disaster relief efforts, and support about 1,200  jobs in Philly Shipyard,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao.

“Philadelphia Metal Trades Council President Lou Agre and I spent the better part of a year working to get this ship built at the Philly Shipyard by Metal Trades Workers — the best damn shipbuilders in the world,” said Metal Trades Department President Jimmy Hart. “It is a great day seeing the first piece of steel cut.”

In April, TOTE Services, LLC, was contracted to be the Vessel Construction Manager for the NSMV program. TOTE then contracted Philly Shipyard, Inc. to construct up to five NSMVs.

“TOTE Services is proud to have been awarded a contract by MARAD to be the vessel construction manager for this new, state-of-the-art training ship that will help provide qualified officers to support the domestic maritime industry,” said TOTE Services President Jeff Dixon. “Each of us at TOTE Services is thrilled to be part of this historic investment in the U.S. maritime industry, and are working closely with MARAD and Philly Shipyard to advance this new class of vessel built by union labor in a U.S. shipyard with U.S.-made steel and U.S.-made engines.”

Steinar Nerbovik, Philly Shipyard President and CEO said: “This is a tremendous honor and recognition of our history of building high quality ships over the last 17 years. This project begins a new chapter in our history, a new customer and the first in series, which is a challenge we are eager to meet. I am confident that our workforce will deliver ships that the state academy cadets will be proud to sail for many years to come.”

The NSMV program is an important investment in the U.S. shipbuilding industry, which supports nearly 400,000 American jobs.

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MTD President Hart: Thank You Veterans

MTD President Hart: Thank You Veterans

 

In the midst of a health pandemic and the ensuing political turmoil surrounding this devastating event that has wreaked undue hardship upon Americans of all walks of life, Americans can always depend upon our nations armed forces and its cherished veterans to answer the call to duty, whether it be to protect and preserve our precious liberties or defend our homeland and peoples from harm. That is why on this Veterans Day, the Metal Trades Department, its officers, affiliates and councils pay homage to America’s veterans, all of whom comprise the sacred fabric of America and make up a large component of our Metal Trades Councils. All of our allied international unions have programs dedicated to training and hiring veterans or those about to close out their military careers and our Metal Trades unions and employers embrace our nations veterans with open arms of gratitude in thanks for their service and commitment to our nation.

On behalf of the entire Metal Trades community, I would like to thank all of our nation’s veterans. Your service and sacrifice have ensured that we all benefit from a free and open democracy. Thank you for protecting us at home and abroad and for your selfless service to our wonderful country.

I wish you a happy, safe and healthy Veterans Day. God bless you and your families. Thank you for your sacrifice. God bless America!