NCSF Workforce Development
- Securing the Future of the Silent Service -
The U.S. Navy faces a critical workforce shortage—250,000 skilled professionals are needed over the next decade to sustain submarine and shipbuilding operations. Without action, national security and fleet readiness are at risk.
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Our foundation advocates for strategic investments, workforce initiatives, and industry partnerships to train the next generation for careers in submarine technology, shipbuilding, and national defense.
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This resource library provides reports, investment data, and policy strategies for lawmakers, industry leaders, and advocates.
Workforce Development
The Navy urgently needs engineers, welders, machinists, nuclear technicians, and cybersecurity experts.
The shortage requires immediate investments in training, recruitment, and infrastructure.
Key Reports:
Navy Investments
The Navy is investing billions in STEM programs, trade schools, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships.
Funding recipients include shipyards, defense contractors, and education institutions.
Funding & Programs:
Strategic Plans & Reports
Comprehensive reports outline Navy workforce strategies, legislative actions, and industry assessments.
These insights shape workforce development and funding priorities.
Plans & Policy Briefs:
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
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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
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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
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Secretary, Non-Voting
James Easthom | Partner, Kennon-Craver PLLC | Duke University, Class of 1985 | University of Virginia School of Law, Class of 1991
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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.
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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.
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