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So far, we’ve looked at different classes of submarine, and you now will be able to spot the differences between Seawolf and Virginia Class Submarines, but what is actually involved in building one? Building a submarine is one of the most complex engineering feats in the world. It requires a diverse team of professionals, each bringing their own expertise to the table, to create a vessel that can operate in the most demanding environments on Earth. But it’s not just about the technical skills—building a submarine is a true team effort, where collaboration, communication, and problem-solving are just as crucial as the ability to wield a wrench or design a circuit board.The process of creating a submarine involves multiple stages, each requiring the concerted efforts of various teams. It all begins with Design and Engineering.

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The Making of a Submarine

Final Delivery and Support

Testing and Quality Assurance

Manufacturing and Fabrication

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Design and Engineering

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One key takeaway from the submarine-building process is that many of the skills involved are not unique to the defense industry. For example, welding, machining, electrical work, and project management skills can be found in various industries, from automotive manufacturing to aerospace. So, if you’ve ever considered a career in these areas, the skills you would have would be directly transferable to submarine manufacturing! What makes working at Electric Boat unique is how these skills are applied in the high-stakes, high-precision world of submarine construction.Whether your passion lies in engineering, craftsmanship, or logistics, the skills you develop at Electric Boat will not only help you build some of the world’s most advanced submarines but also open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in other industries, from manufacturing to construction, and beyond. We’ll closely examine responsibilities and skills throughout the next few modules!

After the individual components are crafted, the assembly process begins. Shipfitters, pipefitters, and electricians work together to assemble the submarine’s hull and install its complex internal systems. This is a massive undertaking, requiring a deep understanding of how different systems interact and depend on one another. Electricians must coordinate with engineers to ensure that electrical systems are correctly installed and tested. Meanwhile, pipefitters and welders collaborate to install and secure the submarine’s piping and structural elements. The teamwork at this stage is intense, with each role contributing to the seamless integration of the submarine’s systems.

The journey begins with the design and engineering teams. Engineers, naval architects, and designers use sophisticated software to create detailed blueprints and models of the submarine. Their work lays the foundation for everything that follows. Electrical, mechanical, and structural engineers collaborate closely to ensure every component fits perfectly and functions seamlessly. These roles require a deep understanding of physics, mathematics, and material science, but they also demand creativity and innovation as engineers work to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Once testing is complete, the submarine is delivered to the customer, the US Navy. However, the work doesn’t end there. Electric Boat’s commitment to its submarines extends throughout their operational lives. Maintenance teams, support engineers, and logistics professionals ensure that the submarines remain in peak condition and ready to serve at a moment’s notice.

Before a submarine can be delivered, it undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets all operational and safety standards. Quality assurance teams, including test engineers and inspectors, put the submarine through its paces, checking everything from the structural integrity to the functionality of its systems. They work closely with the engineering and manufacturing teams to troubleshoot any issues that arise and make necessary adjustments. This stage is all about meticulous attention to detail and ensuring that the submarine is ready for its critical mission.