At Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Inc. (HPSI), our people are the foundation of everything we build. Our Apprentice Program is designed to prepare the next generation of skilled shipbuilders through structured training, real-world experience, and mentorship—creating long-term career pathways in America’s maritime and shipbuilding industry.
The HPSI Apprentice Program is a three-year, paid training initiative registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry and fully funded by the Shipyard. The program blends classroom instruction, hands-on production experience, and mentorship to prepare individuals for high-skill careers in shipbuilding.
Each year, apprentices are accepted into multiple trade disciplines, earning college credits and industry-recognized certifications at no cost.
Apprenticeship Trade Tracks
Apprentices train across several specialized disciplines, including:
- Welding
- Shipbuilding
- Outfitting
- Machine Operation
These tracks provide foundational skills while building toward full, on-the-job proficiency in active shipyard environments.
Structured Training & Curriculum
The program follows a competency-based curriculum with a minimum of 144 hours of technical instruction annually, using a Tell–Show–Do instructional model:
- Classroom learning introduces concepts
- Demonstrations reinforce techniques
- Guided hands-on practice builds mastery
Training includes:
- Eight-week production immersion in active shipyard departments
- Eight-week rotations in HPSI’s Training Academy
- Continued on-the-job learning with performance evaluations
Apprentices receive biannual assessments to track progress and ensure readiness for advancement.
Attend a Virtual Information Session
*Attendance at one of these sessions is mandatory. Please sign up for your preferred time using the link provided.
State-of-the-Art Training Academy
HPSI’s Training Academy serves as the instructional hub for apprentices, combining classroom education with simulation-based hands-on training in a controlled environment.
The Academy features:
- Dedicated welding booths (FCAW, SMAW, multi-process)
- Full-scale mock-up structures reflecting real shipyard workflows
- Instruction in blueprint reading, rigging, tool handling, and safety standards
Skills learned in the Academy are reinforced through real-world production experience, building confidence and technical excellence.
Apprentice Benefits
Apprentices receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match and union pension
- Paid vacation and personal time
- Uniform allowance
- Paid shutdown weeks after six months
- Longevity bonuses and professional development opportunities
Career Advancement Opportunities
Graduates transition into journeyman-level roles and may advance into supervisory, engineering, planning, or technical positions across the Shipyard.
HPSI also supports continued professional growth through a dedicated Apprentice Mentorship Program, which provides structured guidance during an apprentice’s first year in the three-year program.
Participants are paired with recent or near-graduate apprentices within the same department, offering practical insight, direction, and peer support as they begin their development.
Beyond individual careers, the program strengthens domestic shipbuilding capabilities critical to national security and commercial readiness—reflecting Hanwha’s long-term investment in workforce development and American maritime manufacturing.