Molly Pietz
After eight years in the Navy and another 15 in shipbuilding, Molly Pietz knows exactly what a vessel means to the people who serve on it. She understands what’s at stake, which is why she didn’t just join Birdon to do a job; she joined to help build a new standard.
“I came on board to help establish the entire dimensional control program for building the US Coast Guard ships,” Molly explains. “It was a chance to build the process from the ground up, connecting precision with process.”
Molly’s work is the central nervous system of the build. She ensures that every measurement, weld, and inspection report lines up with the exacting standards required for these major defence vessels. This scope means her influence is felt from the initial steel-cutting to the final report.
“Most days, you’ll find me out in the yard checking dimensions or troubleshooting alignment issues. The rest of the time, I’m at my desk maintaining the data that ties it all together,” she says. “I track welds, heat numbers, and certifications so there’s a clear, traceable story behind every single part of the ship. We have to know it’s strong and seaworthy.”
“I know how much these ships mean to the people who serve on them, and that’s why accuracy and accountability will always matter to me.”
This accountability is where Molly thrives. Her favorite part of the job isn’t just finding a problem; it’s owning the solution. It’s the “Make It Happen” value in action.
“I love the problem-solving,” Molly says. “Digging into the drawings, checking the steel, or reviewing the process to figure out how to make things right and keep the build on track. That’s what it’s all about.”
That “make it happen” approach can only succeed in an environment of high trust. For Molly, that trust is the core of Birdon’s family culture. It’s not just a poster on the wall; it’s how the team operates, giving people the autonomy to contribute immediately and meaningfully.
“My managers really make me feel like I matter,” she says. “They trust me and ask for my input often. That’s what makes the difference. We all have a shared commitment to doing things the right way, and it feels good to be part of a team that makes a real impact.”
