MARITIME INDUSTRIAL BASE (MIB) SYMPOSIUM HIGHLIGHTS

The NDTA JAX Chapter’s MIB Symposium was an exclusive gathering of Jacksonville’s and Florida’s most influential leaders, government officials, educators, and innovators focused on the future of maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and workforce development.

Held at the Adam W. Herbert Center at the University of Florida on April 22, 2026, the event featured engaging panel discussions, interactive Q&A sessions, and high-profile keynote conversations designed to spark collaboration and forward-looking solutions.

Angie Reno, President of the NDTA Jacksonville Chapter, and Linda Carrion, President of the International Propeller Club of Jacksonville, set the stage for a day centered on strategic partnerships and maritime growth.

Maritime Logistics Takes Center Stage

The first panel, which focused on Maritime Logistics, brought together senior executives from some of the industry’s most influential organizations. Moderated by Angie Reno of Expeditors International, the session explored emerging challenges and opportunities shaping cargo movement, port operations, and supply chain resilience.

Attendees heard candid discussion on port modernization, global trade trends, military logistics support, and the evolving role of Jacksonville as a strategic maritime hub.

High-Profile Fireside Chat

Randall Thomas hosted a fireside chat featuring two influential leaders helping shape the future of maritime policy and economic development: Laura DiBella and Jay Collins.

Their discussion provided unique insights into national maritime priorities, infrastructure investment, economic competitiveness, and Florida’s growing importance within the Maritime Industrial Base.

Workforce Development and the Future Talent Pipeline

Addressing one of the maritime industry’s most urgent priorities, Panel 2 focused on workforce development initiatives and Jacksonville’s emerging role as a talent pipeline for the maritime sector.

Introduced by Ed Randolph and moderated by Jim Bender of Crowley, the panel featured education and workforce leaders from across Northeast Florida. The session examined how schools, colleges, industry partners, and local government can work together to build the next generation of maritime, logistics, and advanced manufacturing professionals.

MIB Panel Explores Growth and Opportunity

The symposium concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the MIB and expanding economic impact across the Southeast. Hosted by Chris Servello of Provision Advisors, the panel included leaders in shipbuilding, manufacturing, small business development, and industrial strategy.

Topics centered on domestic shipbuilding capacity, industrial readiness, supply chain partnerships, and opportunities for small and mid-sized businesses to support national maritime priorities.

Student and Academic Participation Highlights Industry Engagement

The symposium attracted strong participation from educational institutions and emerging workforce programs throughout the region:

• Ed White High School’s Global Logistics Academy (10 students and two instructors).
• Beachside High School’s Global Logistics and Supply Chain Academy (10 students and one instructor).
• University of North Florida (five students and five educational leaders), while also serving as an event sponsor.
• Keiser University (four students.)

The strong student presence underscored the symposium’s broader mission: connecting today’s industry leaders with tomorrow’s maritime workforce while positioning Jacksonville as a national center for maritime innovation, logistics, and industrial growth.

For more information about the Jacksonville Chapter, go to: National Defense Transportation Association Jacksonville Chapter | Connect with Defense Logistics Professionals