Since 2006, the Virginia Ship Repair Foundation’s Tradesperson of the Year Awards have celebrated outstanding achievements in the ship repair industry workforce. From a pool of nominees, two exceptional individuals are selected: a senior tradesperson with more than five years of experience, and a junior tradesperson with fewer than five years in their chosen trade. These nominees and winners represent the pinnacle of talent and dedication that make Virginia’s ship repairers the best in the world.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the VSRF ensures that all sponsorships are tax-deductible, with funds supporting initiatives to enhance and grow the future ship repair workforce.
Recognizing excellence in our workforce is more important now than ever. Both your Association and Foundation are committed to this mission.
NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS!
The nomination period for the 2025 19th Annual VSRF Tradesperson of the Year Awards is officially open! There are many superstar folks out there, and we want to ensure that all the fabulous tradespeople of VSRA have the opportunity to be considered for selection of this prestigious award.
Nomination Deadline:
Friday, December 12, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Late nominations will NOT be considered.
Submit Nominations to:
Outreach@VirginiaShipRepair.org
Instructional Video: Tradesperson Nomination Form Tutorial
To improve the strength of your nomination, it is strongly encouraged that nominators take few minutes to watch this video before getting started. It’s a quick and worthwhile investment that can significantly impact the success of your nomination!
(If are having trouble viewing the above video, please click here)
We also encourage nominators to use the SAMPLE Nomination Forms as a guide:
SAMPLE Junior Tradesperson of the Year Nomination Form
SAMPLE Senior Tradesperson of the Year Nomination Form
Download the FILLABLE Junior and Senior Tradesperson of the Year nomination forms below:
Junior Tradesperson of the Year Nomination Form
Senior Tradesperson of the Year Nomination Form
Nomination Tips:
The judges look for specific examples of expertise, leadership and commitment. Please be descriptive in your answers. Other factors that affect decision-making are: creativity, safety, professionalism, and growth. Aside from the first page of the nomination form, please refrain from using the nominee’s name or company name in your nominee descriptions. Additionally, refrain from using HE or SHE within nominee descriptions. Instead, please use NOMINEE, THEY, THEM, or THEIR to maintain anonymity of the individual.
Please refrain from submitting their certificates or licenses, especially if these items contain their name and company's name. The judges are aware that if they are actively working in the industry, they must have these.
Contact Anika Clickener with any questions at 757-233-7034, or by emailing AClickener@VirginiaShipRepair.org or Outreach@VirginiaShipRepair.org.
Platinum Sponsorship by:
Prizes Sponsored by:
2024 Tradesperson of the Year Winners and Runners Up:
2024 SENIOR TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR
THOMAS CLARK, JR., TÉCNICO CORPORATION
The 2024 Senior Tradesperson of the Year, Thomas Clark, Jr., is a highly respected Pipefitter Supervisor with over 15 years of experience in the ship repair industry. Thomas began his career as an entry-level helper and steadily advanced through his dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence. He has mastered complex installations and repairs while mentoring and developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Thomas’s leadership is marked by his calm demeanor and focus on safety and quality, ensuring that his team consistently meets deadlines while maintaining high standards. Beyond his technical expertise, Thomas is deeply involved in his community, coaching youth sports, volunteering for local initiatives, and serving as an example of balancing professional success with meaningful community engagement. Thomas embodies the values of mentorship, service, and excellence.
2024 JUNIOR TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR
JAHLANI WILLIAMS, TÉCNICO CORPORATION
The 2024 Junior Tradesperson of the Year, Jahlani Williams, began his career as a sheet metal mechanic and has since expanded his expertise to include welding and ship fitting, making him an invaluable member of his team. Jahlani prioritizes safety and environmental stewardship, setting an example for his coworkers and mentoring apprentices to build a culture of excellence.
Outside of work, Jahlani is a dedicated community leader, mentoring youth and supporting environmental initiatives. His passion for continuous improvement, leadership, and safety makes him a standout tradesperson and a role model for others in the industry.
2024 RUNNER-UP SENIOR TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR
WILLIAM THIGPEN, VTG
William Thigpen, an Engineer Technician III, has demonstrated rapid career progression, advancing through specialized training and certifications in shipboard electrical systems, safety protocols, and project management. He has been instrumental in fostering a strong safety culture within his team, implementing a “Safety First” initiative that has significantly reduced workplace incidents.
William actively contributes to the ship repair community by participating in career fairs and educational workshops, encouraging the next generation to pursue trades. Additionally, he supports local veterans through events that connect them to job opportunities in the industry. William’s technical expertise and dedication to both safety and community involvement set a high standard for excellence in the ship repair field.
2024 RUNNER-UP JUNIOR TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR
SHANA ANDERSON, GENERAL DYNAMICS-NASSCO NORFOLK
Shana Anderson, a Level 3 Sheet Metal Mechanic, has rapidly advanced in her career, earning three promotions in just four years. She is highly skilled in operating complex machinery, including the MESSER™ Plasma Table and hydraulic iron-worker, and holds multiple industry certifications, demonstrating her technical expertise and commitment to safety.
Shana has introduced several process innovations, improving efficiency and safety in her workplace. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is an active parent, a frequent PTA volunteer, and a primary caregiver for her elderly mother, exemplifying a remarkable balance between her career and personal life.