QED systems is launching a targeted marine electrician workforce development and training initiative to address critical talent gaps and build long term capacity within our virginia technical services…

The Department of the Navy Naval Sea Systems Command awarded QED Systems, Inc. $221,992 on October 1, 2025, under the Improvement of Navy Ship Repair or Alterations Capability Program (CFDA 12.031) to establish a targeted marine electrician workforce development and training initiative within QED Systems' Virginia Technical Services Division.

The grant funds a two-tiered training and development program combining formal instruction with hands-on, jobsite mentorship to address critical gaps in fiber optic and multipin connector repair capabilities. These capabilities support mission-critical tasks including shipboard modernization and alteration installations, pier-side and trailer-based small boat repairs, and fly-away repair teams supporting CONUS and OCONUS operations and casualty reports (CASREPs) across Naval surface ships, aircraft carriers, and submarines. The initiative aims to reduce QED Systems' reliance on subcontracting and decline of task orders by building a sustainable pipeline of fully capable marine electricians to meet operational demand.

Period of performance extends from October 1, 2025, through October 2, 2030. Place of performance is Virginia Beach, Virginia. QED Systems is a Virginia Beach-based small business providing hull, mechanical, and electrical systems engineering, ship maintenance, repair, and modernization services to the Department of the Navy. The grant is a Project Grant assistance type, obligated at $221,992.

QED systems is launching a targeted marine electrician workforce development and training initiative to address critical talent gaps and build long term capacity within our virginia technical services division. Historically, marine electrical trades have been difficult to attract, hire, and retain due to the specialized nature of the work and the absence of a formalized training pipeline. Our initiative aims to reverse this trend by establishing a structured, two tiered training and development program that combines formal instruction with hands on, jobsite mentorship. These professionals support a wide range of mission critical tasks, including shipboard modernization and alteration installations, pier side and trailer based small boat repairs, and fly away repair teams supporting CONUS OCONUS operations and casrep demands. Despite this skilled core, our workforce faces acute gaps in fiber optic and multipin connector repair capabilities, both essential for supporting the full spectrum of naval surface ships, aircraft carriers, and submarines. Our current operational demand requires additional fully capable marine electricians. Due to this shortage, QED systems is often forced to subcontract work or decline task orders outright. New hires frequently exhibit strong potential but require additional training to meet the specialized performance expectations of naval warship maintenance and modernization. Without a dedicated, funded training program, the cost and time burden of upskilling these employees becomes prohibitive. By investing in this workforce pipeline, we will not only enhance our technical capabilities and responsiveness but also position QED systems as an employer of choice for marine electricians. The initiative will create a sustainable, cost effective solution to meet growing workload demands and strengthen our ability to support U.S. Navy readiness at home and abroad.