William Shipley

As a Quality Assurance Specialist/NDT Level II at Coastal Mechanical Systems I am responsible for scheduling, oversight, documentation, and maintenance of records for all QA checkpoints at Marine Hydraulics International Shipyard in Norfolk, VA.

I am also responsible for performing all NDT IAW Navsea Standard Items, and to analyze test data to determine performance and reliability of materials, and for reporting recorded findings of inspection process, collaborating with quality team to implement corrective actions.

During my tenure at Coastal Mechanical Systems I obtained my certification in Ultrasonic Thickness in May 2022, and recertified in May 2025. Since I've been certified, I have performed thickness readings on steel plate decking and bulkheads on approximately 8 different ships for a total of over 300 hours. To finalize my inspections, I then had to provide engineering with detailed sketches showing locations of my readings, and thickness reports showing the percentage of loss from the original design material thickness of the steel, at each location.

During my time as an Engineering Technician, I was located in the Welding Engineering Division, Quality Assurance Office. The purpose and function of the division is that of an engineering facility established by NAVSEA to serve the shipyard and nearby establishments in all technical and engineering phases of welding and allied processes and nondestructive testing.

I was responsible for performing engineering technician duties directly related to the mission of the branch, including assignments related to the following engineering disciplines: materials, metallurgy, welding, nuclear and nondestructive testing, and was considered by NAVSEA to be one of the shipyards technical experts in the NDT methods in which I was certified.

Additionally, I was responsible to ensure that the concepts/work practices and philosophy of reactor plant work were fully implemented. I was responsible for resolution of technical problems of a routine nature where adequate procedures exist, and also to resolve technical problems where the area is not well defined by procedural requirements. One example of this was performing LPT on the inner diameter of a nozzle that had never been performed. I was responsible for creating the inspection technique, instructing inspectors on how to perform the inspection, certifying the inspectors, and then travelling to Kings Bay, GA as oversight, to ensure the inspection in the reactor plant was performed IAW the new procedure.

It was also required of me to assist in certifying NDT Inspectors, investigate technical problems, monitor shipyard work practices, and analyze data for adverse trends. Additionally, I was required to assist in developing and implementing quality control procedures and review technical procedures from other shipyard organizations pertaining to nuclear and non-nuclear quality control and nondestructive testing.

Within the scope of the area assigned, I was expected to exercise control of those factors relating to the quality of the NDT program. This included carrying out a continuous review of assigned areas to ensure that shipyard rules are adequate and NAVSEA requirements are being met. I was also expected to keep abreast of all new state of the art developments in NDT applicable to ship repair and alteration. Additionally, problems associated with NDT personnel, equipment, materials, or processes are identified and followed until corrected, so that the problems were eliminated and shipyard performance improved.

I served as a Metals Inspector (Code 135), and Nuclear Mechanical Inspector (Code 139) during my tenure at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

During my time at Code 139 as a Nuclear Mechanical Inspector I was trained to perform all duties of a Nuclear Mechanical Inspector. As part of my training, I was required to become certified in 12 different precision instruments. My duties included performing mechanical, piping, and structural inspections, pre-arrival and material condition assessment inspections, in-process, product, certification, VT and PT Nondestructive Testing (NDT), and acceptance of completed work reviews on nuclear reactor plant, refueling, and overhaul work. Performed receipt inspection, pre-use inspection and marking verification of naval nuclear material ensuring proper material control and traceability are maintained. Ensured safety and operational capabilities of nuclear reactor plant systems, and reactor cleanliness was maintained IAW local directives as required by Navsea specifications for reactor plant cleanliness. Performed weld joint in-process and acceptance inspections for nuclear welding and non-destructive testing (NDT). I also independently initiated rejection of workmanship, components, materials, and procedures that do not meet specifications by preparing a Nuclear Deficiency report.

I have been a lead analyst for the condenser inspection aboard CVN-69, using new Corestar equipment, acquisition program, and analysis program. This has consisted of analyzing data, assembling reports, mentoring acquisitionists on the job, assisting my supervisor with tracking the jobs status. On many occasions I have volunteered to work longer than normal shifts, and with shifts outside of our normal work schedule on nights and weekends to help to keep jobs on pace.

I am capable of independently performing complex nondestructive testing and analysis on complex and non-routine mechanical components, piping systems, and structural assemblies related to Naval surface ships, submarines, and nuclear propulsion plants to determine structural integrity of the items. I utilize the most advanced test methods and procedures in solving the most complex inspection problems.

I am experienced in performing inspections on Nuclear Reactor Plant components and systems such as: coolant system and pressurizing piping, pumps and valves; heat exchangers; and steam generators as well as other critical ship’s systems such as emergency main ballast high pressure vessels; hull integrity weld joints; and propulsion shafting. In addition, I am also certified to inspect hull fittings, hatches, main steam valves, main sea water valves and pumps, torpedo tube components, propellers, shafting, high pressure air valves, steam turbines, force draft blowers, condensers, ship’s service generators, boilers, diesel generators, diesel engines, air compressors, radar and ECM masts, winches, messenger buoys, auxiliary systems valves and pumps, signal ejector, trash disposal, aircraft elevators, bomb handling equipment, steering and diving control, main and vital hydraulic systems, main and auxiliary sea water systems, air salvage, trim and drain, hovering and main propulsion systems.

These systems are designed and must be maintained to critical design requirements and specifications. Each system involves a variety of complex and sophisticated components. These inspections are performed to determine the internal integrity of products using a wide variety of highly sophisticated and intricate inspection equipment and technologies in the field of Manual and Automated Ultrasonic Testing (UT), X-Ray and Isotope (Gamma) Radiographic Testing (RT), and Eddy Current Heat Exchanger Tubing Testing (ET) inspection methods. Additionally, evaluators perform surface inspections using Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), and Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) inspection methods.

I am a highly skilled and certified NDT specialist in accordance with the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, and I’m required to maintain qualifications and certifications through periodic performance and written examinations by authorized NAVSEA representatives in accordance with the requirements of NAVSEA T9074-AS-GIB-010/271, NAVSEA 250-1500-1, MIL-STD-2132. NAVSEA 0989-030-7000 and Shipyard Instructions as applicable.

I can Independently interpret test results and determine final acceptance/rejection of items in accordance with specific codes and specifications without supervisory controls.

I am capable of maintaining detailed test records that are subject to audit.

I have extensive experience in performing calibration and safety checks of test equipment prior to and after performance of NDT inspections.

I am certified to perform eddy current inspections using bobbin probes to inspect main, auxiliary, and air ejector condenser tubes, reboiler, and other heat exchanger tubing on both nuclear and nonnuclear vessels for steam impingement, pitting, exfoliation corrosion, and other wall thickness variations.

I also review data on electronic media for complete inspection of each tube using complex software, analyze and evaluate any abnormal eddy current signals, accept/reject the tubes based on information from the current and any prior inspections, and prepare written reports of results.

Eddy current inspection requires me to have a complete and thorough knowledge of mathematics (algebra, geometry, and trigonometry), physics, and a thorough understanding of the physical and chemical properties of the materials being inspected. I am also required to apply this knowledge in the calculation of inspection parameters such as probe frequency and eddy current depth penetration which is input into the system prior to testing. With these parameters established, I am able to locate, isolate, and disposition indications with references to defects, chemical or physical property changes, Eddy current inspection requires a fundamental knowledge of condenser/heat exchanger operation and they typical locations and causes of tubing defects.

I also have experience in contacting shop journeymen, supervisors and ship personnel on matters relating to location, services available, staging requirements, safety precautions for assigned inspections. I regularly arrange for correction of deficiencies and re-inspection of repaired items and recommend remedies for particular problems. Since becoming a senior inspector, I have assisted in training apprentices, investigating and submitting reports on assigned problem areas and special projects. I have also worked in association with engineers/metallurgists in investigation/resolution of problems.

In addition to the duties described above, I have assisted in effective use of the inspection crews by, relaying to other inspectors the instructions received from supervisors and initiating the work to be performed by giving pre-job briefs to junior inspectors prior to commencing work. As a senior inspector, I have also worked with other inspectors to demonstrate proper work methods and assure needed plans, blueprints, materials and tools are available and properly utilized to accomplish assigned work. I have worked to obtain needed information or decisions from supervisors/managers of other trades that materialize during the work to accomplish assigned jobs while maintaining current knowledge and answering questions of other workers on procedures, policies, written instructions, and other directives (i.e. technical orders).

As a stand-in for the shop gang supervisor, I assured there is enough work to keep everyone in the inspection crew busy. I check inspections, while in progress and when finished, to assure the supervisor’s instructions on work sequence, procedures, methods and deadlines have been met. I urge, or advise other employees to follow instructions received from supervisors to meet deadlines, while assuring that safety and housekeeping rules are followed. I have the ability to lead NDT inspectors, journey-level, WG-13 or equivalent, without more than normal supervision. This includes, but is not limited to conducting daily job site reviews and provides surveillance of in-process inspection operations, planning and coordinating nuclear and non-nuclear work assignments within the section on an immediate and long term basis in accordance with established schedule requirements. I also assist in reviewing technical work documents and NDT inspection procedures prior to final acceptance of product, and coordinating NDT inspection operations for NDT inspectors. I am also currently responsible for using my ATMS access to provide qualification reports to each inspector/apprentice, and to use the reports to update the shop gang training status board weekly.

I continuously, and with great detail, reported to supervision on status and progress of work, causes of work delay, and attends job status meetings when requested. I constantly keep supervision informed of overall inspections operations and problems.

I provide direction and resolution to shop supervisors, ship’s force, and design personnel to identify and correct reject conditions, and interpret specifications and instructions to ensure objectives and applicable requirements are met. I independently exercise significantly more judgement and independence in determining the methods and techniques required to solve unusually complex calibration and certification problems, and judge the impact modified test equipment or procedures may have on ensuring proper calibration of the highly complex reference standards and equipment. In performing my duties, I also keep abreast of technological changes in the occupation and provide technical guidance and assistance to lower graded workers. As a senior inspector I must make a wide range of critical decisions on matters concerning the acceptance or rejection of work performed by highly skilled craftsmen and other inspectors, independent of and without consultation with a supervisor.

I am very knowledgeable of, and utilize a wide array of highly sophisticated quality control inspection/NDT techniques as well as utilizing many unique and specially designed precision instruments and gauges to perform inspections under highly critical tolerances.

I have the capability to independently interpret and comprehend diagrams, blueprints, specifications, and interrelated procedure and technical requirements to meet critical job applications. I also possess the ability to read and interpret complicated written technical material as instructions, TGI’s, specifications, procedures, sketches, and blueprints.

I possess keen insight to determine when improper NDT and other requirements have been specified and communicate these observations to quality assurance supervision, production supervision, or engineering as required for effective problem resolution and quality control; a good capacity for communication (both oral and written) and preparation of specific and precise memorandums or other written communications; a diverse knowledge and skill in the use of mechanical, electrical, and electronic gauging and measuring instruments; and a capability for making sound business/technical decisions of acceptance or rejection on complex components or assemblies.

I am certified to perform nuclear and non-nuclear inspections in accordance with NAVSEA Technical Publications 271. I maintain a level II certification in Industrial Eddy Current Tubing Data Analysis Testing and Eddy Current Weld Detection Testing ( ET ) (Crack Detection( ferrous, non-ferrous , tubing acquisition and tubing analysis), Magnetic Testing ( MT ), Liquid Penetrant Testing ( PT ( Group I and Group III )), Visual testing ( VT ), and Radiographer’s Assistant ( RTA ) while also performing NDT QA oversight on the inspectors for various project. This included procedure and certification package review, monitoring for procedure compliance and review of final reports, including procedure review and acceptance.

I have held SUBSAFE qualification to perform tests and inspections in shop areas, on board nuclear and non-nuclear vessels including carriers, submarines, LHDs, LPDs, amphibious assault ships and at other naval facilities in support of the mission of the U.S. Navy and Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Conduct eddy current tube analysis inspections aboard nuclear and nonnuclear vessels. Independently perform complex nondestructive testing and analysis on complex and non-routine mechanical components, piping systems, and structural assemblies related to naval surface ships and submarines and nuclear propulsion plants to determine structural integrity of items.

Independently interpret test results and determine final acceptance/rejection of items in accordance with specific codes and specifications without supervisory controls.

I have performed inspections on specific nuclear systems such as PT on blockage piping, main feed piping, and fab discharge hose. I have also performed Eddy Current weld detection on nuclear items such as RLW tanks, shielded weather enclosures, and the Reactor Compartment Sideway Passage inspection.

I am knowledgeable of the physical and chemical properties of the materials being inspected. Capable of teaching trade theory and provide on the job training to trainees. I am able to isolate, and disposition indications with reference to defects, chemical or physical property changes. Interpret technical and blueprint information to determine the type and extent of required processing. Use mathematical formulas to compute refracted sound beam angles, acoustic wavelengths and velocities, radioisotope decay rates, radiation safety boundaries, and electromagnetic relationships of various alloys. Ensure that work under your direction meets acceptable criteria of technical directives. Use NDT methods and procedures to verify that work performed by various trades complies with all applicable specifications and requirements.

I am knowledgeable in the theory, principles, scope, and limitations of Eddy Current test methods. I am also knowledgeable in the weld detection operations of Eddy Current. I have knowledge and skills on performing inspections of ferrous and non-ferrous components such as: pad eyes, attachment welds and pressure hull welds, etc... I am skilled and knowledgeable in the use of Zetec, Corestar, and Nortec machines, proper probes (differential (pulse and minus probe), and paint shims. I am a skilled and knowledgeable Eddy Current Tube Analyst in heat exchanger condenser tubing on numerous Navy components such as; Carrier Mains, TG’s, Re-boilers, Feed heaters, Auxiliary Gland Condensers & Reactor Plant Fresh Water (RPFW) Water Condensers, On submarines and Moored Training ships (MTS) the Mains, R-114’s, R-134, EAFW, ASW Heat exchangers, DDG oil lube cooling condensers. I am trained and knowledgeable in lead controls the require Code 130M to monitor a full shift. I am trained in the use of Zetec and Corestar materials on nuclear and non-nuclear ships, and in various production shops. As a Level II, I am the lead on Condenser and weld detection jobs.

I also assist and instruct the Level I acquisitionist on equipment issues by helping trouble shoot on deck plate as well as in training. Also, I am able to instruct and operate Zetec and Corestar equipment, maintain records, and complete applicable utilization logs and archive data in accordance with the requirements of 9254 and 2032. I have worked along with Technical support and NDT Test Examiners on the local procedure certification process and new equipment approval process submitted to NAVSEA. I am able to verify compliance with established written procedures and instructions.

I am knowledgeable and skilled in the performance of Magnetic Testing and I have performed inspections of components and elements such as Steering and diving yokes, Propeller Shafts, RAST equipment. I am knowledgeable in the selection of proper magnetizing current, proper prod/yoke contact spacing, proper application of magnetic powder and interpretation of results in accordance with II-K-19, II-K-16,1688, 1689,278, 271 and 2035. I perform Dry method inspections using direct and indirect current techniques.

I am knowledgeable and skilled in the performance of Liquid Penetrant Testing of ferrous and non-ferrous materials using Group I and Group III. I have performed inspections of components such as valves, sight glasses, shaft sleeves, p-1 and p-2 piping components, sea chest and level 1items such as bolts and studs. I am knowledgeable in the use of proper dwell times and use caution on the removal of penetrant and spraying of the developer.

I am a qualified radiation worker with “R”, “G”, and “I” qualifications. I’m certified as a Radiographers Assistant (RTA) to ensure safety during radiographic operations on shipboard components utilizing open facility and closed facility radiography. I am familiar with all related devices, practices, and procedures associated with these qualifications. I understand the inverse square law to determine radiation intensity as well as using ALARA to maintain reasonably low exposure levels. I am knowledgeable in inspection of dry docks, piers, caissons, capstans, wharf building, retaining walls and storage tanks. As an RTA, I have been associated with the management supply systems involved with Radioactive Material preparation, receipts and shipments. I understand and comply with the emergency SERMON procedure as well as the implantation of WIN in the event of an abnormal occurrence, thus resulting in the writing of a RDR. I have successfully completed and maintained formal qualifications in training as a radiation worker at NNSY.

I have a diverse knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic measuring instruments used in performing non-destructive testing and weld joint fit up such as v-wac, bridge gauge, depth dial indicator, needle point gauge, fillet weld size measurement tools, six inch scale, wire gauges, type I fillet gauge, 5X magnifier, mirror and flashlight.

I perform inspections and maintain quality by working to design instructions, technical manuals, drawing, test procedures, and task group instructions (TGI). I maintained my familiarity and worked with reentry controls and items associated within the sub safe program. Worked closely with Zone Managers, Supervisors, Engineers, Safety and Occupational health (106), Radiation Health Physicist (105), other workers to ensure that quality work and proper coverage of all jobs is being performed. I have developed a well-rounded knowledge of other shops and codes that I interact with on a daily basis such as: nuclear and non-nuclear pipe fitters, welders, ship fitters, marine machinist, inside machinist, electricians, insulators, painters, boiler makers, engineers etc. I am knowledgeable of material acquisition, storage, issue, hazardous material procedures, kitting, and material safety data sheets.

I have good oral and written communications skills and I have a strong mathematical background (both basic and advanced math). I have knowledge and use of ATMS, Defense Travel System, Web AIM, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Microsoft Outlook Express on Operating Systems Windows 9X, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP, and Windows Vista. I am able to process information and organize test results into final technical reports. I can read and interpret complicated written technical documents, weld joint history records, mechanical drawings, plans, sketches and specifications on a wide variety of complex components and I am experienced in maintaining files, charts, and status reports. I understand the scope and processes involved in the Quality Assurance field and stay focused to maintain quality. I possess the knowledge necessary for making decisions of acceptance and rejections on compels components and assemblies and I have experience in identifying and documenting deficiencies on various structural and mechanical shipboard components. I recommend corrective actions for deficiencies and coordinate corrective actions for the repair and re-inspection of repaired items.

I am able to schedule and coordinate work with shipyard senior management, shop journeymen, supervisors, military personnel and other quality assurance inspectors on matters pertaining to location, services available, staging requirements, and safety precautions relative to non-destructive testing. In addition, I regularly work with nuclear and non-nuclear engineers and metallurgists in the investigation and resolution of deficiencies. I am able to perform my duties with a minimal amount of supervision and technical assistance.