The president of General Dynamics Electric Boat has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus while the company confirmed further changes to the workforce configuration to limit the disease’s spread within its facilities.
In an April 4 message to employees, Electric Boat President Kevin Graney disclosed he has tested positive for the pandemic virus, noting his symptoms were mild.
“I will be out of the plant until I am cleared by medical to return. In line with our protocol and public heath guidance, employees who were near me and had close contact have been notified, and are monitoring their own health. My office and surrounding areas are being cleaned this weekend,” he wrote.
Graney said his symptoms were mild, consisting of a low-grade fever and nasal congestion that developed from April 1-2 and in another situation he would take some pain/fever reducers and go to work. Instead, he listened to company doctors about staying at home if sick.
While Graney is sick, he said he will work from home until cleared of the virus and Chief Operating Officer Kurt Hesch will lead the organization for normal daily activities and events.
“Please stay focused on your own personal health. Each of us knows when we’re not quite feeling right. In my case, the indicators were subtle, but enough to cause me to pay attention. Stay vigilant about your health and the health of those around you. Practice social distancing, wash your hands often stay hydrated and get rest when you can. Most importantly, stay home if you are sick,” Graney added.
Electric Boat is the Navy’s prime contractor for manufacturing the next-generation Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, which starting in the 2030s will replace today’s Ohio-class fleet.
In a separate April 5 message to employees, Graney noted EB now has 10 confirmed COVID-19 cases.
He said since the pandemic began, the company has been modifying how they do work by using social distancing protocols, enable working from home, and alternate work scheduled including a second shift at the New London facility to spread people out. More changes are coming.
This story first appeared in Nuclear Security & Deterrence Monitor affiliate publication, Defense Daily.
