Jackson County Economic Development Foundation

This week we are celebrating #NationalApprenticeshipWeek! Jackson County offers 4 U.S. Department of Labor -approved apprenticeship programs at Ingalls Shipbuilding, a Division of HII, Singing River Health System, Bollinger Shipyards and Rolls-Royce. These programs allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience in addition to classroom learning - all while earning a paycheck.

Today we join economic development organizations along the Gulf Coast in thanking Gov. Tate Reeves and his administration for today’s significant investments into site and workforce development and infrastructure improvements. Jackson County was selected to receive millions, and we’re grateful to work alongside the Jackson County Port Authority & Jackson County Board of Supervisors on future growth. Today’s announcement includes $4.4M to support Bulkhead Expansion project, positioning Jackson County’s public infrastructure for decades of shipbuilding expertise and growth. #JacksonCountyMeansShipbuilding Read more: https://lnkd.in/emPnxN29

This #VeteransDay, we're grateful for the men and women who protected our great nation. Beyond their service, veterans play an important role in the Jackson County economy. Last month, veteran-owned business Superior Optical announced a $12.5 million investment in Ocean Springs to expand its operations of providing corrective and protective eyewear to customers. From enlistment to entrepreneurship, we salute the talented veterans of Jackson County!

Your voice matters - to Jackson County and to our entire nation! Get out and vote today! Visit https://bit.ly/46D68V6 to find your polling place.

Bollinger is kicking off their next two bootcamps: Shipfitting and Pipe Welding. The positions for Shipfitting Trainee and Pipe Welding Trainee are now open via Bollingejobs.com -> Opportunities at Mississippi Shipbuilding and will remain open until November 15, 2024!

JCEDF celebrates today’s announcement by Superior Optical Lab, a dedicated member of Jackson County’s strong manufacturing sector for over three decades.?George Freeland said their newest investment is a “testament to the high-quality eyewear they provide to our veterans and the stellar workforce producing the frames and lenses” and thanked state leaders Gov. Tate Reeves and Mississippi Development Authority officials for helping grow Jackson County companies. Read more below:

Today, we proudly celebrate the birthday of the U.S. Navy, established in 1775 during the American Revolution. In Jackson County, the Navy's impact is felt not only through its strategic importance but also as a significant economic driver. We're honored to collaborate with leading shipbuilders and Navy contractors like @HII, @BollingerShipyard, and @RollsRoyce, who are integral to our nation's naval strength. As a cornerstone of national defense and global peacekeeping, the Navy continues to play a vital role in safeguarding America's borders and fostering stability worldwide. Here's to the enduring legacy and unwavering commitment of the U.S. Navy!

Ingalls Shipbuilding recently hosted their 2nd annual student maritime welding competition (Project MFG), showcasing incredible talent and skills from young welders across the region. This event not only highlights the future of shipbuilding but also emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills and education in our communities. A special congratulations to Jonah Bell from Moss Point on placing 3rd in the competition. Ingalls Shipbuilding, a Division of HII, Moss Point High School, Project MFG Check out the full article for more details: https://lnkd.in/gckEq_fA

Today is the deadline for general election voter registration (applicants who register in-person in the Circuit Clerk’s office today and those who mail registration applications post-marked no later than today are eligible to vote during the Nov. 5 election). #VoteYall

When you think manufacturing, think Jackson County.It’s our largest industry, employing 14,000+ workers and generating over half of our county’s GDP.But that’s not all; Jackson County manufacturers produce nearly a quarter of all manufacturing GDP statewide!Did you know our manufacturing workers are about 3 times as productive as the national average?From high wages to growth opportunities, manufacturing means business here in Jackson County. #MFGDay