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In a groundbreaking move, a state-of-the-art welding school, funded by BWXT, the U.S. Navy and BlueForge Alliance, has opened at Mount Vernon High School in Indiana, offering students a debt-free path to a high-demanding career. The John D. Haynes School of Welding Technology, a tribute to a beloved BWXT employee, is set to revolutionize vocational education and address shortages in skilled trades.
John Haynes, a former Fabrication Manager at BWXT’s facility in Mount Vernon, Indiana deeply committed to the Mount Vernon community, passed away on Nov. 4, 2023. He was a United States Air Force veteran and served his country overseas during Operation Desert Storm. He started his career at BWXT as a night shift plant manager, taking on new challenges and responsibilities over his tenure. He was an integral member of the leadership team and helped recruit numerous employees and their families to join the BWXT team.
Mount Vernon General Manager Nate Foote said John helped the site develop relationships with community colleges and technical schools in at least five states, and his passion for the trade and his dedication to mentoring young people inspired the creation of this specialized school.
“The reason we named this program after John Haynes was because he was instrumental in the development of the program,” Nate said. “John Haynes was a BWXT employee for around seven years and a leader of our fabrication activities at the plant. He had expressed a strong interest in developing a pathway for local students in Mount Vernon to get into the welding trade. That is why, today, we take the time to honor him by naming this school after John D. Haynes.”
This isn’t your typical high school welding class. The John D. Haynes School of Welding Technology offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience from BWXT experts. Our welders and engineers will teach advanced welding techniques and real-world skills not taught at any other high school in the country.
Currently, around 40 students are enrolled in the program, but the school can host up to 60 students annually. The plan is to have at least 20 students graduate from the program each year, ready to join the industry.
Read the news release about the school’s opening here.
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