On October 20 th the Maritime Industry Museum at Fort Schuyler proudly hosted the
Shipbuilding in America conference. Attendees came from all over the country to
engage with industry leaders about the latest innovations in shipbuilding and ship
repair, as well as discuss the challenges facing this critical industry. Challenges such as
workforce development, finance, foreign competition, Jones Act waivers, and supply
chain issues. Shipbuilding and ship repair facilities are necessary for the success of
this country’s maritime and logistical dominance.
The day’s agenda consisted of a broad base of experts from both the commercial and
government side of the business. Our panels on finance, ship repair, and shipbuilding
were thought-provoking, while Laila Linares from the Department of Transportation and
Anthony Fisher of MARAD captured the attendees with remarks that captured the
current mood of the industry. Our legal experts discussed the effects of the SHIP ACT
and the Jones Act on this critical issue. Experts discussed labor training and job
placement from the biggest shipyards to the mom-and-pop shipyards and how they
have similar problems and how they have and are working to solve this problem. The
museum is grateful to all who attended, presented, and sponsored this event.
