The University of Alabama is getting in the on-field sponsorship game as numerous schools have done this offseason.

For the first time in history, Nick Saban Field will bear a logo on the playing surface in Bryant-Denny Stadium.

In a partnership with the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) Program with the goal of expanding workforce development opportunities across Alabama and strengthen America’s shipbuilding industrial base — the cause is a good one.

“This partnership allows The University of Alabama to connect our students and communities with high-demand careers that serve both Alabama’s economy and our nation’s security,” new UA president Peter Mohler said.

“Our role as the state’s flagship institution helps create pathways that strengthen industries vital to our future. Build Giants Alabama provides opportunities for Alabama residents to prepare for meaningful careers while contributing to the defense of our nation.”

As part of the initiative “Build Giants Alabama”, fans will see the program’s logo featured on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium during all home football games this fall as well as in-venue messaging featuring former Alabama head football coach Nick Saban on the importance of the Build Giants Alabama initiative.

“Partnering with the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) Program creates a unique and impactful opportunity to support our state and our nation,” said Alabama AD Greg Byrne. “We’re proud to team up with and shine a spotlight on the Build Giants Alabama initiative as it assembles its workforce in this vital industry for current and future generations.”

The Build Giants Alabama initiative aims to increase career engagement programs such as job fairs, student ambassador efforts and mentorship sessions with Navy leaders and industry experts. Not only this, but also educational initiatives including curriculum development with UA faculty, collaborative projects linking trades and engineering students, and K–12 STEM outreach.

“America needs more skilled workers to build and sustain the Navy our nation needs,” said Matthew Sermon, Direct Reporting Program Manager of the MIB Program. “The University of Alabama’s influence, reach and commitment to education make it an ideal partner to help attract, train and inspire the next generation of shipbuilders and innovators.”

The partnership directly supports the Navy’s need for 25,000 new trades workers annually to build submarines, surface ships, and unmanned vessels. It complements Alabama workforce initiatives, including the Alabama Community College Maritime Training Program, which will train more than 1,400 workers in ship fitting, pipe fitting and welding.

“We’re excited to contribute to this groundbreaking program with Crimson Tide Athletics and the U.S. Navy to drive awareness of this incredible partnership,” said Jim Carabin, Vice President and General Manager of Crimson Tide Sports Marketing. “Integrating Build Giants Alabama branding and activations into Alabama Athletics events will fuel growth for this vital program and connect with Crimson Tide fans across the state and the country.”