In December 2000, the folks at General Dynamics Electric Boat, the primary builder of submarines for the U.S. Navy, were challenged to cut the time it took to join hull sections from their average of twelve weeks to four. With the completion of the USS Hawaii (SSN-776) this year, the workers met the challenge and were rewarded with General Dynamics' Manufacturing Excellence Award in May for their efforts. "The tradesmen applying their knowledge, experience, and skills is what made this happen," said Bob Burkle, general foreman, Steel Trades, and operations lead for the automated welding process improvement program. "I can't emphasize enough the cooperation and help of our tradesmen."
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