Dear Mobile Chamber Members,

This week has brought both profound tragedy and remarkable achievements to our nation and our region. Before I share the positive developments happening across our region, I want to acknowledge the sobering events that have touched us all.

Wednesday’s killing of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University reminds us of the dangerous times we live in, where political violence threatens the very foundation of civil discourse that makes our democracy possible. Regardless of political differences, we must condemn such acts and pray for healing in our nation.

As business and community leaders, we have a responsibility to model the respectful dialogue that builds bridges rather than walls.

This week also marked the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks – a day that forever changed America but also revealed our resilience and unity in the face of tragedy. As we remember those who died and honor the heroes who responded, we’re reminded that our strength as a nation comes from our ability to stand together during our darkest hours.

With these sobering reflections in mind, I want to share some of the incredible progress and positive momentum happening right here in Mobile – achievements that represent hope and the enduring American spirit of innovation and perseverance.

Advocating for Our Region in Washington

I just returned from a trip to Washington D.C. with the I-10 Gulf Coast Chamber Coalition, where we made our voices heard on the issues that matter most to our collective communities.

This coalition represents more than 15 million residents across Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana – a region that moves more than $5 trillion in goods annually and produces or transports 40% of America’s energy. Those aren’t just statistics; they represent the economic powerhouse that is the Gulf Coast.

We hosted a breakfast for U.S. House members from our coalition states, followed by productive meetings with our Gulf Coast senators. The conversations centered around five critical priorities that directly impact our businesses and families here in Mobile and across the region:

• Flood insurance
• Disaster response and recovery
• Coastal protection and resilience
• Fisheries and marine economy
• Public safety.

The meetings reinforced something I’ve always believed: when we work together as a region, our collective voice carries tremendous weight. The Gulf Coast’s economic contribution to our nation is undeniable, and federal policy must reflect that reality.

Education Excellence on the Rise

Speaking of momentum, I’m thrilled to share some outstanding news from our higher education community. The University of South Alabama is experiencing a remarkable surge in enrollment, marking their third consecutive year of growth.

With 14,285 students enrolled this fall – up from 14,003 last year – it also has the largest freshman class in the university’s history.

This growth isn’t happening by accident; it’s the result of USA’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative programs and creating an environment where students can thrive. These students represent our future workforce, our future entrepreneurs and our future community leaders.

The success story continues at Coastal Alabama Community College, which is celebrating its highest enrollment ever with more than 8,800 students across its eight campuses. That’s a 17% increase compared to last year, and this phenomenal growth speaks to the increasing demand for skilled workforce training and accessible higher education options.

These students are preparing for careers in industries that drive our regional economy, from maritime and manufacturing to healthcare and technology.

Supporting Alabama’s Future STEM Leaders

On a personal note, today I’ll be attending my final meeting as a board member for the Alabama School of Math and Science. My term is expiring, and while I’ll miss serving in this capacity, I’m incredibly proud of what this institution represents for our state.

The Alabama School of Math and Science serves as a residential high school for academically gifted students from across Alabama, focusing on advanced mathematics, science, and technology education. These students – who come from all 67 counties – go on to attend top universities and often return to contribute to Alabama’s growing technology and aerospace sectors.

The school’s mission of developing future leaders in STEM fields aligns perfectly with our region’s economic development goals, and I’ve been honored to help guide that mission during my time on the board.

Celebrating a Decade of Aerospace Excellence

This Sunday, September 14, marks a truly historic milestone – the 10-year anniversary of Airbus producing aircraft right here in Mobile. Think about this for a moment: just a decade ago, Mobile produced zero airplanes. Today, we’re on track to be the fourth-largest producer of commercial aircraft in the world. That’s not just remarkable; it’s transformational.

The sense of pride I feel about this achievement extends far beyond our city limits. We’ve created an aerospace corridor that has fundamentally changed Alabama’s economic landscape. The ripple effects touch every corner of our state – from suppliers in Birmingham and Huntsville to workforce development programs in our community colleges and universities.

When that first A320 rolled off the production line, it reinforced to the world that Alabama’s commitment to advanced manufacturing and innovation continues to reach new heights.

Breaking Ground on Bayou la Batre’s Future

Monday marked the groundbreaking for the Bayou la Batre docks redevelopment project. This $30.5 million investment will completely modernize the historic City Docks – a project that’s been years in the making and represents hope and renewal for this proud maritime community.

The funding is provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury through the RESTORE Act. This investment, made possible through the Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement, focuses on infrastructure that strengthens coastal economies and restores vital ecosystems. Mobile County will administer the project with grant oversight by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Bayou la Batre has always been the heart of Alabama’s seafood industry, and these modernized docks will ensure that tradition continues for generations to come. The project will improve infrastructure, enhance safety, and provide the facilities needed for our fishing fleet to remain competitive in today’s market. It’s exactly the kind of investment that honors our maritime heritage while building for the future.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on this week’s events – from our successful advocacy efforts in Washington and the groundbreaking in Bayou la Batre to record enrollment numbers and aerospace milestones – I’m struck by a common theme: momentum. Our region has tremendous momentum right now, and it’s our responsibility to harness it for continued growth and prosperity.

The challenges we face are real – flood insurance costs, disaster recovery processes, and the need for continued federal investment in coastal protection. But so are our strengths – a skilled and growing workforce, world-class educational institutions, a thriving aerospace industry and a maritime heritage that continues to evolve and adapt.

Until next week,