NCSF Workforce Development
- Securing the Future of the Silent Service -
Over the next decade, our Navy faces a critical shortage of 250,000 skilled professionals needed to build and maintain submarines already funded for construction and repair. Without action, fleet readiness and national security are at risk.
The Navy urgently needs engineers, welders, machinists, nuclear technicians, and cybersecurity experts. The shortage requires immediate investments in training, recruitment, and infrastructure.
The resource library below provides up-to-date information on the Navy’s plans, policies, and investments to address this urgent workforce need.
Workforce Development
How the Navy and its partners are building, preparing, and sustaining the skilled workforce required for shipbuilding, maintenance, and undersea operations — from talent pipelines to workforce readiness challenges.
Investments & Incentives
The Navy is investing billions in STEM programs, trade schools, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships.
Funding recipients include shipyards, defense contractors, and education institutions.
Strategic Plans & Reports
Comprehensive reports outline Navy workforce strategies, legislative actions, and industry assessments.
These insights shape workforce development and funding priorities.
NC Submarine STEM & Workforce Innovation Center
NCSF Board of Directors
President
Christopher R. Perrien | U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1974 | Served as Sonar Officer aboard Pacific Fleet destroyers (1974-1978) | Retired IBM Technical Sales Executive
Vice President
Noah White | U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 2004 | Submarine Officer, USS Helena (SSN-725) | Former Duke University NROTC Instructor | Shift Manager, Harris Nuclear Plant
Treasurer
Whit McDowell | Wake Forest University, BBA Finance, Class of 1973 | MBA, The Wharton School, Class of 1978 | U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer (1973-1976) | Retired Bank of America Executive
Secretary, Non-Voting
James Easthom | Partner, Kennon-Craver PLLC | Duke University, Class of 1985 | University of Virginia School of Law, Class of 1991
Directors
Vice Admiral Joe Leidig, USN (Ret.) | US Naval Academy Class of 1978 | Former Commander of USS Cavalla (SSN-684) & Submarine Development Squadron Five | 80th Commandant of the U.S. Naval Academy.
Emory Miller | USNA Class of 2007 | Former Navy helicopter aviator | Completed service as a Naval ROTC instructor at UNC Chapel Hill | Now in Technical Cybersecurity Sales at Cisco.