Smith named HII's new Columbia-class program VP

HII announced today it has named Brandi Smith to run the Columbia-class submarine program at the company's Newport News Shipbuilding division.

Smith will succeed Charles Southall, who will retire July 1 after more than 35 years with the company, according to HII.

Smith began her career at Newport News in 2002 as an engineer in the carrier overhaul program and most recently served as Columbia-class construction program director.

She will assume her new role as vice president of the Columbia program June 1, and will report to Matt Needy, vice president of Navy programs, according to HII.