Funnily enough, there is a completely different CAPT Kirk, USN that works in the same branch of the OPNAV staff that I do!
Anyway, the DDG-1000s are a very interesting design. It is starting to look like they will be sort of equivalent to the Seawolf-class SSNs, in that they are going to be purchased only in small numbers, and whose biggest contribution will be as a validation of advanced tech. That will take a while, though. Based on what I've heard, it will probably be around 2020 before the Zummwalt herself is fully combat-capable, what with all the testing, integration, and upgrades they need to do to her systems.