Celebrating Excellence in Ship Repair & Recognizing Excellence in Our Workforce!
We are extremely proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our own, and earlier this week, at the Virginia Ship Repair Association General Membership Luncheon Meeting, we recognized the nominees for the 2023 Virginia Ship Repair Foundation Tradesperson of the Year Award and announced the winners. These individuals, nominees and winners alike, truly represent the elite in our industry. Their exceptional talent and unwavering work ethic emphasize why Virginia’s ship repair industry is recognized as world-class.
Congratulations to the Técnico Nominee & WINNER:
TJ Mekosh – Nominee for SR Tradesperson
Christian Fitzgerald – WINNER for JR Tradesperson
SR Tradesperson Nominee:
TJ Mekosh, Senior Master Tradesperson and Weld Shop Foreman – a leader and mentor. Consistently delivering exceptional performance and subject matter expertise, he steers his team to achieve excellence. Leading by example, he consistently ensures high workmanship standards, contributing to departmental and organizational success. His commitment to growth and development is evident in his diverse efforts; from overseeing our Weld Shop/Weld School, role as a craft/apprentice instructor, active participant in recruiting; as well as, donating time at various local technical education / training programs. TJ’s multifaceted contributions to the company underscore his commitment to personal growth and expertise, as well as his dedication to supporting the development of others in his trade and promoting the ship repair industry.
JR Tradesperson WINNER:
Christian Fitzgerald, proud recipient of the VSRF 2023 JR Tradesperson of the Year Award! Christian, a recently graduated Journeyman Apprentice and Welder Crew Leader, stands out for his unwavering commitment to professional development and continuous improvement in maritime welding. He has swiftly risen, showcasing his talent as a leader while achieving NCCER Maritime Welding LVL 1+2 certifications, a Certificate of Maritime Studies, and NAVSEA and ABS welding certificates. His willingness to go above and beyond, working overtime and weekends, demonstrates a strong work ethic and determination to deliver results, even under demanding circumstances. His mentorship role, community involvement, and the positive recognition gained from his work reflect a well-rounded individual highlighting the reasons for his nomination. Christian’s journey from apprentice graduate to his recent promotion while being a dedicated and versatile team member, coupled with his commitment to continuous improvement distinguish him as a standout contributor and invaluable asset to Técnico. His leadership, adaptability, and positive impact will shine as a VSRA and industry ambassador.
Take a look and help us celebrate our nominee(s) & WINNER:
Congratulations and thank you for all that you do! One Team. Better Every Day.
