John Holland, the inventor of the first U.S. Navy submarine, was born in County Clare, Ireland, February 24, 1842.
On February 7, 1899, American businessman Isaac Rice incorporated the Electric Boat Company to complete a 54-foot submersible vessel developed by John Philip Holland. One year later, the world’s first practical submarine, the Holland, was accepted by the U.S. Navy, marking the beginning of the U.S. Submarine Force.
This week we celebrate Electric Boat’s 120th birthday. Spanning three centuries, through world wars and economic ups and downs, our company has maintained an unwavering focus – to ensure our nation’s defense.
During World War I and just after, Electric Boat built 85 submarines for the U.S. Navy while its subsidiaries built 722 submarine chasers and 118 Liberty ships. Over the course of World War II, Electric Boat produced 74 submarines and 398 patrol torpedo boats, including the famous PT 109 commanded by then-Lieutenant John F. Kennedy.
After both World Wars, with fewer orders for submarines, the shipyard stayed busy building yachts, schooners and commercial fishing vessels. Creative diversification after WW II saw printing presses, truck bodies and even automated bowling alley pin-setters rolling off the production lines. In 1950, with Cold War tensions mounting, EB’s destiny was forever changed when the company took on the challenge posed by Capt. Hyman Rickover to design and build the first nuclear-powered submarine.
In 1955, on sea trials, the USS Nautilus sent the historic message: “Underway on nuclear power.”
EB’s innovations have never stopped, including the Navy’s first fleet ballistic-missile submarine, USS George Washington (SSBN 598), which went on strategic deterrent patrol in 1960. In the succeeding decades, EB has designed, built and sustained ever-more capable and stealthy attack submarines, culminating in the Virginia class, pioneering research vessels like the NR-1 and the sea-based, survivable leg of our country’s strategic nuclear force, the Ohio Class, with its next-generation replacement, Columbia, underway.
Through the changing times and challenges of the last 120 years, there’s been one constant – our talented, creative and hardworking employees. It’s an honor for me to lead a company with such a storied history and a very bright future.
Thank you for the work you do to deliver the advantage that protects our sailors, our families and our freedom.
Happy Birthday Electric Boat!
Jeff Geiger
Happy Fourth of July
As America marks its 250th birthday, we celebrate the generations of shipbuilders whose skill and commitment have strengthened our nation, and especially thank our current generation of EB shipbuilders for all you’re doing to meet this challenging moment in history. Happy Fourth of July.
Electric Boat and SENEDIA Celebrate 10,000-Graduate Milestone
We are proud to recognize a major workforce milestone with the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance (SENEDIA), one of Electric Boat’s key training and workforce development partners. At an event on July 1, 2026, held at the Westerly Education Center, SENEDIA celebrated the 10,000th graduate to complete the New England Submarine Shipbuilding Partnership—a regional...Continue reading→
Safety Update: Installation of Speed Tables on Eastern Point Road
In an effort to increase safety at Electric Boat’s Groton shipyard, two speed tables are being installed across Eastern Point Road this week. The tables, a few inches tall and marked with yellow stripes, are designed to slow vehicle traffic in an area frequented by pedestrians. The first speed table crosses Eastern Point Road just...Continue reading→
EB firefighters recognized for life-saving rescues
Five members of the Electric Boat Fire Department in Groton were recognized for perilous, life-saving rescues during a pair of multi-alarm fires that engulfed apartments in Groton and New London in 2025. Firefighters Thomas Gugliotti, Arthur Keaten, Theodore Bartkoski, James Brady and Capt. Ryan Boulanger were each presented with Lifesaving Awards and the prestigious 2026...Continue reading→
The Barnacle: Parking Enforcement That Sticks
Meet the Barnacle, Electric Boat’s newest parking-enforcement tool that will begin deployment in the Groton shipyard starting Monday, June 15. As our enterprise continues to grow, we are dedicated to ensuring parking is safe, fair and accessible to all. The Barnacle is an immobilizing parking-enforcement device that attaches directly to a vehicle’s windshield using heavy-duty,...Continue reading→
Honoring the U.S. Army Birthday
June 14th marks the 251st Birthday of the United States Army, a moment to honor the enduring legacy, bravery, and sacrifice of those who have worn the Army uniform since 1775. As the oldest branch of the U.S. military, the Army has played a vital role in shaping our nation’s history and safeguarding its freedoms....Continue reading→
Rayha Report Ep. 20: 2026 EB Signing Days
Electric Boat held recent Signing Day ceremonies at Cranston West High School on May 21 and the Garde Arts Center in New London on May 28. EB President Mark Rayha spoke with students about their decision to join EB and educators who prepare their students for careers in shipbuilding. Click here to see the latest installment of the Rayha...Continue reading→
Save the Date: CT Health Fairs Kick Off June 9
A Message From Dan Vieira and Kathleen Heller At EB, Safety and Wellness go far beyond meeting basic compliance standards. Our focus is on building a culture where employees can thrive in every aspect of their lives. Prioritizing wellbeing is vital to being our best on the job and at home with our families. ...Continue reading→
Supporting Our Neighbors Impacted by The Ledges Apartments Fire
Early Sunday morning, a devastating fire occurred at The Ledges Apartments in Groton. Eighteen fire departments, including Electric Boat’s, responded. Thanks to the heroism of these first responders no residents were injured. The fire did, however, displace more than approximately 50 residents and destroyed or damaged 44 units in the building. Several EB employees were...Continue reading→
Pride Month Celebrations at Electric Boat
June 1st marks the start of Pride Month, a time for millions of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies around the world to come together in celebration and reflection. From film festivals and art shows, to marches and concerts, Pride is a vibrant tribute to LGBTQ+ culture, history and the relentless spirit of activism. It’s a chance...Continue reading→
