New Haven High School seniors land job offers from Electric Boat
It was a life-changing day for nearly 50 New Haven high schoolers on Thursday when they received job offers from General Dynamics Electric Boat during a hiring event at James Hillhouse High School.
The event brought recruiters face-to-face with students enrolled in the school district’s Manufacturing Pathway program — an initiative designed to prepare graduates for careers in advanced manufacturing immediately after high school.
“I’m just really happy and relieved that everything went well,” said senior Nahia Ortiz, who received an offer. “I’m just very excited to have this opportunity.”
The hiring event is part of an ongoing partnership between Electric Boat and Hillhouse High School, aimed at building a skilled workforce pipeline in New Haven. Through the program, students at Hillhouse and Wilbur Cross receive hands-on training using industry-grade machinery and technology.
“These partners that we have here in New Haven have been fantastic,” said Sean Morrone of Electric Boat’s workforce development team. “They help grow opportunities and provide good, high-wage jobs where students can really excel in their careers.”
The students spend time learning technical skills that translate directly into the workforce. One student tells NBC Connecticut that the possibilities are endless.
“I’ve gotten countless college acceptances,” said senior Arrianna Jones. “But I can also go the manufacturing route. I can become a welder, a machinist, or even design products.”
Jones said her favorite skill learned in the program is 3D printing.
“If you want to make a prosthetic leg, you can print that,” she said. “If you go into construction, you can 3D print a house.”
The manufacturing pathway combines tough coursework, modern equipment, and partnerships with companies like Electric Boat to ensure students are workforce-ready. Additional support comes from ReadyCT, which helps guide students as they transition into their careers. This could be some students’ first-ever job.
“Being able to work with someone closer in age helps them learn career readiness skills,” said Malia Sieve of ReadyCT. “It also gives them someone to talk to about challenges or important decisions.”
Electric Boat hired 46 students during the event as part of a larger effort to fill approximately 2,000 positions tied to upcoming major projects.
Students like Jaylenne Rosa say the opportunity could be transformative for others in the district.
“This is a great opportunity for anybody in New Haven who wants to try it out,” Rosa said. “I think you definitely should.”
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.