I am mission success: Eric G.

Take 5 minutes to learn about Eric G., a welder at the Uranium Processing Facility. All views and opinions are the employee’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of CNS.

Since 1952, the Ingalls Apprentice School has provided the Navy shipbuilding industry more than 4,000 graduates. One of those graduates is Eric G., a quietly confident, seasoned welder at Y‑12’s UPF site.

Eric enrolled in welding school at the age of 19 and began his career in Virginia, building aircraft carriers and honing his skills to build the nation’s most powerful defense ships.

“I have worked on several aircraft carriers in my life, and knowing that what I’ve built has provided security to the men and women on them has been an honor,” he said.

Now, the 61‑year-old is using his career knowledge and experience in welding, steelworking, boilermaking, and electrical work in his current role as an electrical welder at UPF. This brings his profession full‑circle while keeping the mission of national security as his constant North Star.

“I believe in our national security,” Eric said. “I know how critical this project is. You come here and see what’s going on and you feel like life is truly a circle.”

Eric is a self‑proclaimed “family man,” speaking proudly about his children and grandchildren, as well as his extended family who served in the military. “Everything has a purpose, and if you’ve got military family members, like I have, I feel like I am doing my part for their safety and security.”

Why are you mission success?

“I believe in our national security. I can see the big picture and I work hard to get the job done.”

What is the greatest strength you bring to your organization?

“I am a self‑starter. I stay busy by learning the things I don’t know, so I can be of greater help to the project. Because I have been on the side of building the subs, I can see the whole picture of what we are doing here and understand what that means to our national security.”

Why is teamwork an important aspect when working at Y‑12?

“Teamwork is very important. You have to have a common goal and the right chemistry on a team. Otherwise, you won’t get anything done.”

What stands out to you about UPF?

“They go above and beyond to make sure it’s safe. You are able to see the project take shape and it is neat to see the progress. It is hard work though.”