This week marks 86 years since Ingalls first opened its gates. Founded on November 9, 1938, Ingalls Shipbuilding’s journey began on the East Bank of the Pascagoula River with a vision to build commercial ships. By the 1950s, Ingalls had set its sights on serving the U.S. Navy, winning a pivotal contract in 1957 to build 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines – a decision that would transform the future of the shipyard and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
In 1968, Ingalls expanded, opening the West Bank facility and marking a new chapter in its growth. Today, Ingalls is not just Mississippi’s largest manufacturing employer; it is also a cornerstone of economic vitality in Alabama, employing more than 11,000 people.
These extraordinary shipbuilders are the heart of our operations, driving our mission forward each day with unwavering commitment and expertise.
The vital work accomplished by Ingalls shipbuilders over the decades has laid the foundation for our success. From constructing advanced naval vessels to developing cutting-edge technologies, each project has strengthened our national defense and enhanced maritime safety. Today, as we continue to innovate and build, we are not only safeguarding the future of Ingalls but also contributing to a safer and more secure nation.
As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the legacy of our past while eagerly looking ahead. Here’s to 86 years of pioneering spirit, a commitment to building world-class ships, and the remarkable shipbuilders who make it all possible.