Business Notes: Newport News shipyard recruits through schools; Sentara expands food lockers

August 15, 2026 - 17:49

Newport News Shipbuilding is stepping up its recruiting efforts by going directly into classrooms. The company, which builds and maintains nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines, has launched a new push to connect with students at local high schools and technical colleges. The goal is to fill thousands of skilled trade positions over the next several years, from welders and electricians to pipefitters and shipwrights.

Company leaders say they are not just handing out brochures. They are setting up hands-on demonstrations, bringing in current employees to talk about their daily work, and offering paid apprenticeships that let students earn while they learn. The idea is to show young people that a career in shipbuilding can be stable, well-paying, and does not necessarily require a four-year degree. With a large portion of the workforce nearing retirement, the shipyard is racing to train the next generation before the experience gap becomes a problem.

In other business news, Sentara Healthcare is expanding its network of food lockers. The health system has added new locations at several of its facilities, including hospitals and outpatient centers. The lockers are stocked with non-perishable items and fresh produce, available at no cost to patients and community members who are facing food insecurity. Sentara says the program started as a small pilot last year and has grown quickly due to demand. Hospital staff can refer patients to the lockers, but anyone in the area can use them without a referral. The expansion is part of a broader effort to address the social factors that affect health, since access to nutritious food is often linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

On the professional side, several local firms are marking milestones this quarter. An engineering consultancy in Hampton is celebrating its 25th anniversary, while a family-owned construction company in York County just broke ground on its 100th project. Meanwhile, a handful of executives and managers have been recognized by industry groups for their work in logistics and healthcare administration. Their awards will be presented at separate ceremonies later this month.