Giants of Skilled Trades: Bradley Watkins, Fairbanks Morse Defense
Powering the U.S. Navy’s fleet takes the skills of many. Electricians are on the front lines of that important effort, and Brad Watkins is among the best in his field. Plus, his efforts have optimized the speed his employer provides important products to the national defense.
Since 2009, Watkins has contributed to Fairbanks Morse Defense’s (FMD) wide-ranging efforts in the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base. Holding an Associate Degree in Electronic Technology Engineering from Rock Valley College and prior experience at an industrial products manufacturer, he has focused on installing and repairing facility electrical systems, plus wiring control panels and machine tool controls.
Beyond that intricate work, Watkins has proven to be a leader among his FMD teammates. In 2021, he was promoted to his current role of Leadperson Electrician Assembly & Test. While continuing to ply his trade, he has overseen a 30 percent improvement in departmental efficiency and a 40 percent reduction in durations for specific programs. His mentorship of his colleagues and training of new hires has also helped foster the company’s next generation of skilled tradespeople who benefit from Watkins’s knowledge and support in their own journeys.
For nearly a decade, Watkins has perfect attendance at FMD, but he took a brief step away from his work to discuss his work and how others can find success like his in the trades.
What made you want to pursue a career involving electrical work?
When I was a child, I always liked how things worked. It always left me with the curiosity of how they worked. Being the curious person that I am, I would disassemble items – especially electronics – to try and figure out how they work. I love working with my hands and problem solving. It gives me great satisfaction when I achieve success and triumph.
How did your education and training at Rock Valley College impact your career trajectory?
Rock Valley gave me the theory and pragmatic approaches to electrical work. It gave me the reliance and skillsets needed to achieve success in the electrical field. My teachers had vast knowledge and were very encouraging. They were always willing to share and assist in anything needed. I was inspired to develop good analytical thinking and essential troubleshooting skills that I utilize every day on the job.
What do you find most rewarding about working at Fairbanks Morse Defense?
Being part of a dynamic team that creates and services critical power systems for our U.S. Navy. The work that I do directly impacts operational preparedness and safety. FMD is devoted to innovation and quality systems which encourages me to learn and grow.
Which projects or programs at FMD have you been proudest to contribute to, and why?
I’m proudest being a part of the 48/60 team because our engines power some of the most critical marine assets in the fleet. This gives me great pride and satisfaction knowing what we are providing is keeping our servicemen and our country safe.
How did you develop a knack for improving efficiency and reducing durations of programs?
Redeveloping procedures and techniques gave me the knack to shorten delivery times for very aggressive scheduling. Doing this also helps me eliminate any bottlenecks that could hinder efficiency.
What have been the biggest career challenges you’ve faced, and how have you worked to overcome them?
The biggest challenge is when I took on the leadership role in the electrical department, being able to delegate work tasks and have the confidence they were being completed correctly in a timely manner. Sometimes I like to take on too much to assure everything gets done, but I have learned to trust my guys and give clear instructions and feedback when needed.
What are the keys to success you give to new employees as you’re helping train them?
Ask questions when you’re not sure and never, ever assume. Pay attention to fine detail and develop and maintain good workmanship. Use constructive feedback as a tool to improve abilities and skillsets.
What qualities do great electricians have?
They have great abilities to read and understand blueprints and schematics. Electricians are very good with diagnostic equipment for troubleshooting. They pay attention to fine detail, as this is critical when working with very sensitive electrical systems. Safety is always number one because electricity can be lethal. Electricians are also dependable, prepared, and always learning and improving to keep up with the changing electrical codes and new technologies.
What do you see as the future of skilled trades, and what role do you hope to play in that future?
Skilled trades have a very promising future. A lot of seasoned journeymen are retiring. This leaves a huge gap to fill. Individuals who have the skillsets and experience necessary to do the work I believe have a solidified future. With the many years of experience I possess, I’m hoping to pass that off to the younger generation to improve the trade and keep it strong.
What does it mean to you that your efforts and products are going on-board U.S. Navy ships in defense of our country?
I take pride and honor in the work I put into the systems we provide to the U.S. Navy. It gives me great satisfaction knowing everything I do in helping build systems for the Navy is crucial in protecting our country and keeping our service personnel safe.
Careers at Fairbanks Morse Defense are among the thousands available right now in the Opportunities section of BuildSubmarines.com. You can also visit the Training section if you are looking to gain the skills for a skilled trades career.
Written by:
Taylor Massey, BlueForge Alliance
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