The roar of engines and the thrill of the race electrified Dover International Speedway on July 20th as DVIRC partnered with the U.S. Navy and BlueForge Alliance to champion the BuildSubmarines.com campaign. This high-energy event put Southeastern Pennsylvania’s manufacturing prowess front and center, celebrating the skilled workforce that powers our nation’s security and fuels economic growth in our region.
At center stage: Joe Williams, a master welding instructor from Father Judge High School in Philadelphia. His name, proudly displayed on the door of the No. 6 RFK Racing Ford Mustang, represented the powerful, purpose-driven careers available in modern manufacturing—and Philadelphia’s crucial role in powering the Columbia-class submarine supply chain.
The Mustang, driven by Brad Keselowski, also bore DVIRC’s logo as a bold symbol of the Delaware Valley’s vital role in America’s industrial strength. With roughly 20% of the Columbia-class submarine supply chain rooted right here in our region, the Monster Mile was the perfect stage to spotlight the skilled careers driving the future of U.S. manufacturing.
Yet, as a recent New York Times report highlights, American factories face a critical challenge: a shrinking pool of skilled workers, with nearly 400,000 manufacturing jobs unfilled due to a lack of qualified candidates. DVIRC’s partnership with Build Submarines is a direct response to this gap, fostering training and career pathways to ensure our region’s manufacturers can meet the demands of critical defense programs like the Columbia-class submarine.
Williams, recently featured on The Oprah Podcast, embodies this mission, training the next generation of shipbuilders and inspiring young Philadelphians to pursue skilled trades. His work at Father Judge High School has strengthened local welding education, preparing students for high-demand, high-wage careers that shape national defense.
“This event was a powerful showcase of our region’s manufacturing talent and its impact on national security,” said Chris Scafario, DVIRC President and CEO. “By partnering with Build Submarines at NASCAR’s Monster Mile, we’re inspiring the next generation—through leaders like Joe Williams—to seize rewarding careers in an industry that drives our economy and strengthens our nation.”
On the ground, DVIRC’s Director of Workforce Engagement, Hannah McGarry, and Defense Industry Liaison, Jim Donahue, connected with fans, sharing the exciting career paths available in manufacturing. From high school graduates to PhDs, the Build Submarines campaign highlights opportunities that blend competitive salaries with the chance to make a lasting impact on national defense.
“This was more than a race—it was a celebration of our region’s manufacturing legacy and the skilled tradespeople who make it thrive,” said McGarry. “We’re proud to champion careers, like those inspired by educators like Joe Williams, that offer personal success while building a stronger, more secure future for our nation.”
Jim Donahue echoed this sentiment: “The Delaware Valley’s manufacturers are the backbone of critical defense programs like the Columbia-class submarine. Seeing our region’s contributions—and leaders like Joe Williams—take the spotlight at Dover was a thrilling moment to showcase the high-skill careers driving our industry forward.”
The NASCAR event was a dynamic platform to engage communities and racing fans, reinforcing manufacturing’s role as a cornerstone of economic prosperity. For over 38 years, DVIRC has been dedicated to strengthening the Delaware Valley’s manufacturing sector through innovation, workforce development, and defense supply chain readiness. Partnerships like Build Submarines amplify our mission, connecting talented individuals with careers that make a difference in an industry facing significant workforce challenges.
Ready to explore manufacturing careers that power our nation? Visit dvirc.org/build-submarines and buildsubmarines.com to discover opportunities in this vital industry. Let’s build the future together—one career, one submarine, one community at a time.
Join DVIRC at Homecoming 250 This Fall
The excitement doesn’t stop at Dover. This fall, DVIRC is proud to support Homecoming 250, a series of dynamic events celebrating the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary and the vital role of manufacturing in national defense. From interactive career fairs to community celebrations across Southeastern Pennsylvania, Homecoming 250 will showcase the region’s manufacturing strength and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Whether you’re a student exploring career paths, a professional seeking new opportunities, or a manufacturer looking to connect with cutting-edge defense programs, these events will offer a unique chance to engage with the future of U.S. manufacturing. Stay tuned for details on how to join us at dvirc.org/homecoming-250 and be part of this historic celebration.