Birdon, a global group of companies providing solutions in the maritime, military, and resource sectors, has made a major investment to expand its newly acquired Bayou La Batre shipyard.

The process of expansion at the site on Shell Belt Road is expected to create 136 new jobs over the next three years. The growth will bring Birdon’s total workforce at the facility to over 200 employees and also allow it to better support the United States Coast Guard with the next generation of Inland Buoy Tenders, known as Waterways Commerce Cutters (WCC). In 2022, Birdon was awarded a massive $1.187 billion contract to design and build 27 WCCs over a 10-year period.

“We are excited to embark on this significant expansion at our Bayou La Batre shipyard,” said Jamie Bruce, CEO of Birdon. “This investment underscores our commitment to supporting the U.S. Coast Guard with the next generation of Waterways Commerce Cutters. We are also proud to enhance the economic landscape of Bayou La Batre by generating employment opportunities and demonstrating our commitment to workforce development and the local community.”

Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne credited residents of the area with Birdon’s decision to invest.

“Birdon’s decision to invest in Bayou La Batre is a testament to the strength of our local workforce,” said Byrne. “This expansion will have a significant impact, provide good-paying jobs and reinforce our region’s role in the maritime industry.”

Other local leadership also praised Birdon’s move.

“We are thrilled to welcome Birdon’s expansion and the many opportunities it will bring to our city,” said Bayou La Batre Mayor Henry Barnes. “This development reaffirms Bayou La Batre’s position as a vital hub for shipbuilding and marine innovation, and we look forward to a bright future together.”

“This significant investment by Birdon is not just a boost to the local economy but a strong endorsement of our workforce’s capabilities and resilience,” said Mobile County Commission President Randall Dueitt. “The creation of these new jobs and the expansion of our maritime infrastructure will have a lasting impact on Bayou La Batre and South Mobile County. We’re proud to be part of this exciting chapter.”

Construction for the project will begin immediately and is expected to be complete by August 31, 2027.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten