BREMERTON — Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-Gig Harbor) released the following statement on Nov. 25 after the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility announced it will hire 850 entry-level workers.

“A growing workforce at our shipyard boosts a growing middle-class in our community,” Kilmer said. “This announcement is a great opportunity for folks looking to learn new skills and build a career while earning a quality wage. It’s good news for veterans and servicemembers transitioning to civilian life and looking for a job that builds on their experiences serving on our behalf too.

“A thriving shipyard also provides jobs that give workers a chance to support critical Naval missions and at the same time helps local small businesses expand. I’ll keep fighting to ensure our shipyard workforce has the support it needs to continue creating quality opportunities for our region.”