Giants of Skilled Trades: Sherman Bradley, Austal USA

Sherman Bradley has a motto: “If you decide to do something, strive to be the best at it as you can be.” And in his 11-year career (and growing) at Austal USA, Bradley has worked to do just that.

Bradley, who left working for his family business to pursue a career in the trades, knew a more stable and sustaining career lived on the other side. Four times a week, he would drive more than an hour after he got off work to participate in the Maritime Training Center welding program through Alabama Industrial Development and Training (AIDT). His skill and determination landed him a job at Austal USA as a fabrication trades assistant before being promoted to B-Class structural fitter and again to A-class structural fitter.

Throughout his time at Austal USA, Bradley has trained and worked on nearly every program the company has had under contract, and he recently asked to be part of the submarine training program. Bradley says being in a fast-paced defense-contracting environment while working on the front lines of innovation gives him the satisfaction to succeed.

Bradley shared his thoughts on his journey in the trades.

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‍What made you decide to step away from your family’s business and pursue a new path in the skilled trades? Have you always had an interest in welding?‍

I’ve always had an interest in welding and wanted to step out on my own and forge my own path away from the family business. Working for a larger company has also provided a more stable platform for me to grow my own family.

‍How have the skills you learned at AIDT’s training center prepare you for your work at Austal USA? ‍

The skills learned at AIDT gave me the foundation to build my specific craft skills. Teaching both welding and fitting skills, AIDT has helped me in all aspects of being a A-class fitter.

‍You've been with Austal USA for more than 10 years, starting as a fabrication trades assistant and progressing to an A-class structural fitter. Reflecting on your journey, what accomplishments are you most proud of?‍

Attendance, being a priority at all skill levels and in all trades, I’m proud of the fact that in 11 years, I’ve never had an uncovered shift. This and the knowledge I’ve gained has made me a dependable asset to not only the company but to my crew.

‍What is the most rewarding part of your work?

‍Building state of the art products for the U.S. military and being on the front line of innovation. Seeing what we do and build is an important part of the military and supporting our country.

‍Throughout your career, what skills or qualities have you found to be most valuable for success?‍

Working around multiple different people and personality types, my sense of humor has benefitted my ability to succeed in a team setting. My work ethic has also helped me move up in the company quickly.

‍What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in the skilled trades?‍

I would say to pay attention to your coworkers and the job around you when it comes to any trade. Take “I can’t do this” and “good enough” out of your vocabulary.

‍Looking ahead, how do you see shipbuilding evolving, and what role do you hope to play?‍

I see it advancing in an even more technological way than it already is, but there will always be dependency on skilled hands. I plan on moving up into a leadership role.

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Careers at Austal USA are among the thousands available right now in the Opportunities section of BuildSubmarines.com. You can also visit the Training section if you are looking to gain the skills for a skilled trades career.

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Written by:
Kacey Bowen, BlueForge Alliance