HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division has trained more than 1,000 workers at its virtual reality welding lab since the facility opened in January 2025, the Pascagoula, Miss., shipyard announced Sept. 18.
The lab incorporates virtual reality simulations into Ingalls’ welding certification process, giving new and experienced shipbuilders additional opportunities to practice in a controlled environment. According to the company, the technology can provide trainees with up to 10 times more hands-on practice.
“By leveraging immersive technology, we’re ensuring our shipbuilders enter the workforce with stronger, more consistent welding fundamentals,” Anna Bourdais, director of the Maritime Training Center of Excellence at Ingalls, said in a statement. “Our collaboration with the U.S. Navy and regional workforce partners is key to making these investments successful, and we’re already seeing improvements in our Ingalls-trained shipbuilders.”
The lab was established with support from the Navy, Mississippi workforce development program AccelerateMS and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
Participants use the simulations to develop welding techniques and identify areas needing improvement before advancing through the certification process.
“I had never welded before, but the VR system helped me learn, improve my technique and clearly see where I needed to get better,” welding apprentice Olivia Saranthus said. “It’s given me a lot more confidence. Even though I am still in training, I can already see my welds getting better, and the extra practice has helped me move through my certifications much faster.”
Ingalls plans to expand access to the welding lab and explore virtual reality training programs for other skilled trades. The shipyard uses the program to train new hires, apprentices and experienced craft workers supporting Navy shipbuilding programs.
