The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry awarded an employee from Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) the 2018 Outstanding Apprentice Award.

Wendy Cline, a nondestructive test inspector in the shipyard’s quality assurance department (Code 135), received the award. Cline completed the apprentice program in November 2018 and was promoted early with an overall of 3.87 GPA, including a 4.0 GPA for her academic performance at Tidewater Community College.

“When I found out I was nominated and won the award, I was overwhelmed with emotion,” said Cline. “In just more than four years, I became certified as a non-destructive testing inspector, received an early promotion, was acknowledged as one of Virginia's outstanding apprentices and was promoted to work leader. It was very rewarding to feel like my hard work and positive attitude were recognized.”

According to the award nomination, during Cline’s apprenticeship, she successfully obtained nondestructive testing (NDT) certifications for Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), and Radiographic Testing (RT). She completed the Principles of Radiation Theory and Safety Course provided by the Surface Warfare Officers School Unit at Great Lakes, and passed the American Society of Nondestructive Testing exam for the Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Program. Cline recently obtained the Radiographer-in-Charge (RIC) certification and is responsible for the planning and execution of temporary jobsite radiography, which is one of the shipyard’s most prestigious operations.

During her apprenticeship, Cline volunteered to support the shipyard’s mission at various off-yard locations, including the Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU) in South Carolina, the Trident Refit Facility in Georgia, and the Naval Foundry and Propeller Center (NFPC) in Pennsylvania.  

“Despite the many sacrifices Ms. Cline has made to support the shipyard, she maintains a positive attitude and leads her group with extremely high energy,” said Stephen Bristow, technical support branch head. “Wendy even volunteered to represent Code 135 as a team member for the department’s quality of work life team; coordinating and setting up team-building events to bring the department closer.”

Most recently, Cline was promoted to work leader, less than three months after graduating from the program. 

“The C.O.R.E. values that most relate to me are care and ownership,” said Cline of her leadership style. “I want everyone to succeed and I love teaching. I strive to be the best person I can be so I can lead by example and pass on my knowledge. I always try to be optimistic, keep a positive attitude, and I expect the best from others. I think NNSY's C.O.R.E. Values are pertinent to my daily duties and they help me achieve and promote excellence.”  

The Virginia Apprenticeship Council, in association with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry, honors outstanding apprentices who have completed their training program and are nominated by their sponsoring organizations. Cline’s recognition is for her demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship, accuracy, leadership and decision-making abilities.

“I feel honored to have been a part of NNSY's amazing apprenticeship program and I hope it continues to have a positive impact on current and future apprentices,” said Cline.

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