Austal USA and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians have signed a memorandum of understanding that will partner the two entities in a project to expand regional shipbuilding capacity.
The partnership, formally signed on Friday, will see PCI provide support services to Austal, as it strives to meet rising production requirements for both surface and undersea vessels in support of the Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base and Submarine Industrial Base. Specifically, PCI will provide support associated with the ongoing expansion of Austal’s newest Module Manufacturing Facility due to come online in 2026.
“This MOU is about forming new partnerships and expanding the maritime and submarine industrial bases in Alabama and along the Gulf Coast,” said Gene Miller, Austal USA Interim President. “By aligning with PCI, a proven partner known well for the economic impact the organization has had throughout the state of Alabama, we can scale production, reduce schedule risk, strengthen supply chains, and deliver for the U.S. government while investing in American skilled workers and suppliers.”
PCI has quickly become a trusted and reliable partner for numerous defense industry companies and federal contractors. The Tribe’s PCI Federal, its federal contracting entity, has entered into numerous agreements and contracts to provide services to several branches of the military, NASA and others within the U.S. government.
It has helped PCI expand beyond gaming in the state and become one of Alabama’s largest employers and taxpayers. The Tribe boasts a $4 billion economic impact, is the state’s third largest employer and has paid more than $1 billion annually in salaries to Alabamians.
The partnership with Austal is another major step forward for PCI.
“We are proud to join Austal USA in supporting critical shipbuilding capabilities for our nation. This partnership creates new opportunities for our people, supports long-term workforce development, and strengthens Alabama’s role in advancing America’s maritime readiness. Together, we are investing in jobs, innovation, and a stronger future for the entire region,” said Stephanie Bryan, PCI Tribal Chair & CEO.
Austal, in the meantime, has been a major contributor to the state’s gulf coast. Already one of the largest employers in the region, Austal announced last year a major expansion tied to its shipbuilding and submarine manufacturing. In total, two separate expansions will result in more than 2,000 jobs and billions in economic impact for the state.
