Gonzalez: Saronic project can open doors to careers in shipbuilding,
Good afternoon. It’s an honor to be here in such a momentous occasion with Saronic and the leadership of our community, our governor of Texas, and our Vice President J.D. Vance.
Transformative Moment for South Texas
Bringing everyone together for a momentous situation like this will be transformative for our region. As the son of a merchant mariner and having grown up around seaports and naval air stations, I know firsthand the vital role the American domestic maritime industry plays in national security. It warms my heart to see the political diversity present today. There is something powerful about what is possible in America when we come together for something greater than ourselves. We may not always agree on everything, but we can and should come together around good jobs, a stronger economy, a safer nation, and opportunities for our community.
A Promise of Progress
A groundbreaking is a promise. It says we believe in the people in this region and what they can build when given the tools and opportunity. Today, that promise takes shape right here in South Texas. At the Port of Brownsville, we’re beginning a new chapter in the American shipbuilding industry, building autonomous vessels with cutting-edge technology that can transform how our ships operate and how our nation meets global challenges.
While we are excited about the economic impact this project will bring to our region, it’s crucial to recognize that even the most advanced vessel in the world begins with people. It begins with the engineers who imagine what is possible, the skilled tradespeople who make it a reality, and the workers whose knowledge and care bring every piece together. And those people are right here in South Texas.
Empowering Careers and Communities
This project has the potential to open doors to careers in shipbuilding, engineering, advanced manufacturing, and technology. It provides young people with opportunities to stay, workers a chance to learn new skills, and families the chance to prosper closer to home. The Port of Brownsville has a proud shipbuilding tradition, and today, South Texas is carrying that tradition into a new era with the construction of autonomous ships that will showcase the talent, determination, and ambition of the region.
In conclusion, let’s ensure our students and workers have the training and support they need to fully utilize this opportunity. Let’s build the future for the next generation of advanced autonomous shipbuilding powered by Texas talent. Thank you, and God bless.
