Root Cause Analysis of Labor Shortages in the Skilled Trades Supporting Navy Shipyard Maintenance and Modernization

Abstract

The U.S. Navy is experiencing significant delays in ship and submarine maintenance periods. A major factor in these delays is the lack of skilled trades engaged in the shipyard industry, both in the public and private sectors. Often referred to as “blue-collar,” these trades include electrical, welding, piping, mechanical, machining, and others. This thesis is a research-based root cause analysis aimed at understanding and addressing the fundamental reasons for this labor shortage. Utilizing the Ishikawa method adapted for this application, including a fishbone diagram, a multitude of root causes are identified, touching on topics such as economics, public policy, federal government contracting, education, and national security. Recommendations for actions to be taken include recruiting and training initiatives, while topic areas like government contracting are recommended for future research.