Keel Ceremony Hope For Marinette's Future
-
The U-S-S Detroit is expected to bring more workers through the gates of Marinette Marine by the end of the year, but one thing weighing on the minds of many--possible cuts in defense spending. Video by nbc26.com
video
Hundreds gathered in Marinette to take part in a keel-laying ceremony for the U-S-S Detroit. The project is part of the navy's plan to buy new advanced combat ships, including ten from Marinette Marine.
The project is expected to bring more workers through the gates by the end of the year, but one thing weighing on the minds of many--possible cuts in defense spending.
"We're always weary until the contract gets executed," Marinette Marine CEO Chuck Goddard said. "Currently our next two ships went through the authorization and appropriations process, so we're waiting for the final outcome. Until we have the contracts go through, we don't relax."
Goddard says the shipyard is still hiring.
"We employ 1400 people. It's interesting about 38% come from Michigan. And there's over 100 Wisconsin businesses we contract with," Goddard said.
The U-S-S Detroit is set to sail in 2015.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.