AHI Columbus job post

 Regional aerospace/aviation job postings

Airbus Helicopters Inc., Columbus, Miss. Position Summary: Stage and kiting parts specialist. Delivering staged carts to the production station. Receive parts from warehouse and verify qty. and certifications; Match parts from transfer orders to production order and template; Deliver staged carts to production line stations on scheduled; and Deliver shortages and AOG material to the stations. Staging & Kitting Specialist (Contract) Job in Columbus, MS at Airbus Helicopters, Inc (ziprecruiter.com)

Regional DoD contract May 31

Alabama Shipyard LLC, Mobile, Alabama, is awarded an $8,698,054 firm-fixed-price contract (N3220522C4019) for a 75-calendar day shipyard availability for the mid-term availability of Military Sealift Command’s fleet replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203). This contract includes a base period and three options which, if exercised would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $8,823,424. Work will be performed in Mobile, Alabama, beginning Aug. 9 and is expected to be completed by Oct. 12. Fiscal 2022 working capital funds (Navy) in the amount of $8,698,054 are obligated and will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was a small business set-aside with proposals solicited via the Government Point of Entry website and six offers received. The Navy’s Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. (Source:  DoD 05/31/22)

Entergy MS's major solar project

Entergy Mississippi announced the completion of the Sunflower Solar Station project, which is the largest renewable energy plant in the state. The Sunflower County facility, which sits on 1,000 acres in Ruleville, is slated to come online by mid-July. The plant has a 100-megawatt capacity, about twice as much as any active renewable facility in Mississippi. The project represents a 50% increase in the state’s overall renewable energy capacity among its power companies. The project is the first part of Entergy Mississippi’s recently announced initiative to replace some of its natural gas plants with renewable sources. Entergy is the biggest power provider in the state with 461,000 customers. (Source: Mississippi Today 05/26/22) Entergy unveils largest renewable power plant - Mississippi Today

Tips for hurricane-contract scams

JACKSON, Miss. - Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch and the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) are sharing tips with Mississippians to avoid contractor scams as the Atlantic hurricane season approaches June 1. “The best defense against scammers is a well-educated consumer,” said Fitch. MSBOC Executive Director Stephanie Lee says that those who hire unlicensed contractors put themselves at risk. Natural disasters "lead to an increase in individuals posing as legitimately licensed contractors in an effort to prey upon vulnerable citizens,” Lee said. Here are some tips to stay protected from crooked contractors. (Source: WDAM 05/31/22) Miss. AG, MSBOC provides tips to avoid contractor scams as hurricane season starts (wdam.com)

Memorial Day: Time to remember

Memorial Day for many is an extra day off, BBQs and the unofficial start of summer. For those who served, it is something far more solemn: A time to think about those who gave their all for their country. (Source: Air Force Magazine 05/27/22) Memorial Day: A Time to Reflect and Remember - Air Force Magazine

MSU's out-of-this-world tree

STARKVILLE, Miss. - On Mississippi State University’s campus stands an out-of-this-world tree - a sycamore grown from a seed that ventured to the moon. The “moon sycamore” seedlings were planted by astronaut Stuart Roosa upon his return from NASA's Apollo 14 moon mission in the 1970s. It stands near the SW corner of David Wade Stadium and marked by a plaque. The tree, part of MSU’s campus tree trail, stands out as a treasure at a university known for a rich history of agriculture programs. Today, the tree that has been from the moon to Mississippi stands strong. (Source: NE Mississippi Daily News 05/29/22) Mississippi State University, Home to Out-Of-This-World Tree | Mississippi News | US News

Alum endows 'big data' research

STARKVILLE, Miss. - A commitment from Mississippi State University alumnus Lamar McKay of Houston, Texas, will facilitate advanced understandings and applications of data analytics through endowment-level support for an innovative research program at the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering. The McKay Predictive Analytics and Technology Integration Laboratory Excellence Endowment ensures ongoing support benefitting infrastructure, personnel, travel funds and other resources necessary to sustain and grow efforts of MSU’s Predictive Analytics and Technology Integration Laboratory, or PATIL. In addition to the excellence endowment, McKay’s gift also allows for the establishment of an excellence fund to provide immediate annual support until the endowment reaches maturity. McKay spent 40 years in progressive leadership roles in the oil industry, ultimately serving as Deputy Chief Executive of BP p.l.c. before retiring in 2020. (Source: MSU 05/27/22) Alumnus endows support to advance ‘big data’ research at MSU | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)

Bollinger delivers FRC; Safety #17

LOCKPORT, La. - Bollinger Shipyard has delivered the USCGC Douglas Denman to the Coast Guard in Key West, Fla. It's the 175th vessel Bollinger has delivered to the Coast Guard over a 35-year period, and 49th Fast Response Cutter (FRC) delivered. “Pound for pound, the quality and capabilities of the FRC platform is unmatched," said Bollinger President/CEO Ben Bordelon. It can be "looked upon as a model government acquisition program." The USCGC Denman will travel to Alaska where it will be commissioned Sept. 28 at its new homeport of Ketchikan. The new FRC will safeguard the public, protect the environment and defend the nation’s interests in the Alaskan maritime region, he concluded. The 17th CG district encompasses over 3,853,500 square miles and 47,300-plus miles of shoreline throughout Alaska and the Arctic. (Source: Bollinger 05/26/22) BOLLINGER SHIPYARDS DELIVERS 49TH FAST RESPONSE CUTTER TO U.S. COAST GUARD - News - Bollinger Shipyards  

Bollinger earns 17th straight SCA safety award: LOCKPORT, La. – Bollinger Shipyards was presented with the 2021 “Award for Excellence in Safety” by the Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA) for its exceptional record of safety in the shipyard industry. Bollinger has been the recipient of the Excellence in Safety award for 17 consecutive years. Bollinger also earned the Shipbuilders Council of America awards for Significant Safety Achievement and Improvement in Safety. (Source: Bollinger 05/25/22) Bollinger Shipyards Recognized For Exceptional Safety Record - News - Bollinger Shipyards

EcoCAR team earns top awards

STARKVILLE, Miss. - Mississippi State University’s EcoCAR team, made up of students from the school's Bagley Cololege, returned to campus with awards from this month’s EcoCAR Mobility Challenge’s Year 4 Competition, including top spots for overall project management, project status presentation and human-machine interface/user experience evaluation, and a MathWorks Model-Based Design Award. The event was the culmination of a 4-year challenge pitting 11 universities to improve a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer’s energy efficiency, safety and consumer appeal through electrification, advanced propulsion systems and automated vehicle technology. The MSU EcoCAR team earned nine recognitions, including placing fifth in the overall competition, and Vance Hudson, a Collierville, Tenn., native, who recently graduated with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, was one of only two students in the competition to in the Excellence in Leadership Award. (Source: MSU 05/27/22) MSU EcoCAR team wins several first-place national Mobility Challenge awards | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)

Summer travel's sticker shock

DALLAS - Airlines and tourist destinations are expecting big crowds this summer as travel restrictions and the lingering fear of the pandemic begin to ease. Forecasters believe the number of travelers may exceed pre-pandemic days. However, airlines have thousands fewer employees than in 2019, which has contributed to flight cancellations. People who are only now booking summer travels are experiencing sticker shock. Domestic airfare is more than $400/round trip, 24% higher than in 2019 and 45% higher than in 2021, according to the travel-data firm Hopper. “The time to have gotten cheap summer flights was probably ... months ago,” says Scott Keyes, who runs Scott’s Cheap Flights website. International fares are up about 10%. Prices to Europe are about 5% cheaper than before the pandemic ($868 on average/round trip), according to Hopper. Keyes said Europe is the best travel bargain. Online spending for domestic flights eased in April, but up 23% from 2019. Airlines blame the higher fees on jet fuel prices being up about 50%. However, the number of flights has not returned to pre-pandemic levels even as demand is surging. When travelers meet their destination, they will be greeted with hotel rates at 33% higher than in 2021. Hotels companies blame higher prices on increasing cost for supplies as well as a tight labor market. Good news: The cost of rental cars have eased. The national average price is currently around $70/day, according to Hopper. If you're driving your own car, the national average for regular gasoline hit $4.60/gallon on May 26. Those prices have some considering staying home. (Source: The AP 05/27/22) Prepare for sticker shock if you are traveling this summer | AP News

La. reservists save shipmate

FORT WORTH, Texas - Navy Reserve Region Readiness and Mobilization Command Fort Worth Commander Capt. Mark Hofmann presented three Commendation Medals and two Achievement Medals to five Navy Reserve Center Shreveport (La.) sailors May 15 for actions in saving the life of a shipmate on April 3. Capt. Trent Friedel, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ferd Slocum, and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Caleb Espinoza received Navy Commendation Medals for direct lifesaving actions. Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Patrick Martin and Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Dustin Ikels received Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals for other support. Capt. Hofmann gave high praise for their rapid-response and successful resuscitation of a shipmate, who experienced cardiac arrest shortly after a physical readiness test (PRT).  (Source: Reserve Region Readiness and Mobilization Command Fort Worth 05/25/22) NRC Shreveport Sailors Receive Medals for Saving Shipmate’s Life > United States Navy > News-Stories

DoD regional contracts May 27

* Atlas North America LLC, Yorktown, Virginia, is awarded an $8,619,126 firm-fixed-priced, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity requirements contract for depot level support and maintenance for the Seafox Mine Neutralization System. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $35,887,986. Work will be performed in Yorktown, Virginia (50%); and Panama City, Florida (50%), and is expected to be completed by May 2023. If all options are exercised, work will continue through May 2027. No funding will be obligated at the time of award. The contract was not competitively procured in accordance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 6.302-1(a)(2)(iii) – circumstances permitting other than full and open competition when only one responsible source and no supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. Naval Surface Warfare Center - Panama City Division, Panama City, Florida, is the contracting activity.

* Cobham Mission Systems AAR Inc., Davenport, Iowa, has been awarded an $18,950,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the MC-130J Variable Speed Drogue (VSD) full rate production. This requirement establishes the production of VSDs to be installed on the MC-130J. The contract also provides for on-site familiarization training for bases implementing the VSD.  Work will be performed at Hurlburt Field, Florida; Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico; Kirtland AFB, New Mexico; and Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Work is expected to be completed by May 26, 2027. Fiscal 2022 procurement funds in the amount of $2,755,975 are being obligated at the time of award. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Robins AFB, Georgia, is the contracting activity. 

* Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., McLean, Va., is awarded a $12,999,218 firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed-fee order (N0001922F0975) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001920G0005). This order provides for the procurement for depot maintenance for the TE-6B in-flight trainer aircraft. Work will be performed in Lake Charles, La., and is expected to be completed in August 2023. Fiscal 2022 operation and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $12,999,218 will be obligated at the time of award, all of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD, 05/27/22)

CG commandant command change

WASHINGTON - Adm. Karl L. Schultz is scheduled to be relieved as Commandant of the Coast Guard by Adm. Linda L. Fagan in a 10 a.m. (CT) change-of-command ceremony here at Coast Guard headquarters on June 1. In April, it was announced that Fagan would be nominated to succeed Schultz, which would make her the first woman in American history to lead a military service. Fagan is currently serving as the 32nd Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard. (Source: Coast Guard 05/27/22) 

DoD regional contracts May 26

* Aptim Federal Services LLC, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is awarded a maximum-value $117,698,634 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for environmental services for industrial waste, oily waste, hazardous materials and hazardous wastes, and indefinite-quantity compliance projects. Work will be performed at Navy and Marine Corps installations in the Southwest Region and will be completed by March 2029. This contract includes seven option periods and an option to extend for six months. Fiscal 2022 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $9,395,724 will be obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the beta.sam.gov website, with one proposal received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest, San Diego, California, is the contracting activity.

* Leidos Inc., Reston, Virginia, is awarded a $23,956,429 cost-plus-fixed-fee, firm-fixed-price and cost only contract for shipset hardware installation, integrated logistic support, fleet maintenance support, and lifecycle sustainment of the Navy’s AN/SQQ-89 Surface Ship Undersea Warfare combat systems. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $291,923,819. This contract combines purchases for the Navy (98%); and the governments of Australia (1%) and Japan (1%) under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Virginia (41%); San Diego, California (28%); Yokosuka, Japan (6%); Rota, Spain (6%); Mayport, Florida (3%); Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (3%); Everett, Washington (3%); Bath, Maine (2%); Pascagoula, Mississippi (2%); Manassas, Virginia (2%); Washington, D.C. (1%); Syracuse, New York (1%); Uniontown, Pennsylvania (1%); and Marinette, Wisconsin (1%), and is expected to be completed by May 2023. If all options are exercised, work will continue through May 2027. Fiscal 2021 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,943,462 (25%); fiscal 2019 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,387,520 (18%); fiscal 2022 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,379,938 (17%); fiscal 2022 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,161,542 (15%); fiscal 2020 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,049,416 (13%); fiscal 2021 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $344,789 (4%); fiscal 2017 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $250,000 (3%); fiscal 2022 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $221,304 (3%); FMS (Japan) funds in the amount of $100,000 (1%); and FMS (Australia) funds in the amount of $75,000 (1%) will be obligated at the time of award, and $221,304 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the beta.sam.gov website with one offer received. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 05/26/22)

Fire Scout 1st in INDOPACOM

The Navy deployed Northrop Grumman's MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned aerial system (UAS) was deployed from the Austal USA-built USS Jackson (LCS 6) on May 23. It's a first within the Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) designed to provide maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting capability, the company announced. Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21 and HSC-23 will be the primary operators of MQ-8C. Scott Weinpel, business development manager for the program, told Janes that the majority of the squadrons' deployments will be in INDOPACOM for the “foreseeable future." (Source: Jane's 05/25/22) Gulf Coast Note: Austal USA is prime contract for the Independence variant LCS and Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) that are built in Mobile, Ala.

DoD regional contract May 25

Schmidt-PRIME Group LLC, Pensacola, Florida, is awarded a maximum-value $30,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, architect-engineering contract for multi-discipline architect-engineer (A-E) services in support of small projects located primarily at Public Works Department Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY); and Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Yorktown, Virginia, area of responsibility. An initial task order will be awarded at $5,000 in order to satisfy the minimum guarantee. Work will be performed in the Hampton Roads area, predominantly at NNSY and NWS Yorktown, and will be completed by May 2027. Fiscal 2022 operation and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $5,000 will be obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Future task orders will be primarily funded by operation and maintenance (Navy) and military construction (Navy) funds. This contract was competitively procured via the beta.sam.gov website, with 17 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. +(Source: DoD 05/25/22)

Austal-Mobile launches 17th LCS

MOBILE, Ala. – Austal USA successfully launched its 17th Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), the future USS Augusta (LCS 34), on May 24. Assisted by tugs, the ship was escorted from Austal floating dry dock and secured pier side for machinery commissioning and system activation in preparation for sea trials later in 2022. The launch was a multi-step process, which involved lifting the 2,500-metric-ton ship almost three feet in the air, moving it about 400 feet onto a moored deck barge next to the assembly bay – using transporters - then transferring the LCS from the deck barge to a floating dry dock. The floating dry dock was submerged with LCS 34 entering the water for the first time. Augusta is the 17th of 19 LCS that Austal is building for the Navy. Four LCS are under various stages of construction. Austal USA is also constructing four Expeditionary Fast Transport ships for the Navy and will begin construction on Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue Ships this summer. (Source: Austal USA 05/24/22) Austal USA launches the future USS Augusta (LCS 34) | Austal: Corporate

Re-naming group recommendations

WASHINGTON - An independent commission recommended on May 24 new names for nine Army posts that now commemorate Confederate officers. The recommendations are the latest step in a broader effort by the military to confront racial injustice. Fort Bragg (NC) would be Fort Liberty. Fort Gordon (Ga.) would be Fort (Dwight D.) Eisenhower. And, for the first time, Army bases would be named after Black soldiers and women. Other proposed re-namings would honor lesser-known heroes, including several who received the Medal of Honor, the military’s highest award. Fort Polk (La.) would be renamed Fort (William Henry) Johnson, a Black MoH recipient of WWI. Fort Pickett (Va.) would be named after Tech Sgt. Van Barfoot, an MoH recipient of WWII. Fort Rucker (Ala.) would be named Fort Novosel, after CWO Michael Novosel, an MoH recipient who served in WWII and Vietnam. The panel also is considering new names for two ships: USS Chancellorsville and USNS Maury. Those and the new names for hundreds of streets, buildings and other assets, will be in the final report due to Congress by Oct. 1. Under the law, the SECDEF is expected to implement the commission’s plan no later than Jan. 1, 2024. (Source: Virgina Pilot 05/24/22) Gulf Regional Note: Fort Rucker, Ala., is the site of Army helicopter training, Airbus Helicopters Inc builds the UH-72 Lakota helicopters, used in that training, at its Columbus, Miss., facility. Fort Liberty, Fort Walker, Fort Eisenhower: Panel recommends new names for 9 Army bases – The Virginian-Pilot (pilotonline.com)

Economy tops Russian sanctions

WASHINGTON - Americans are becoming less supportive of punishing Russia for invading Ukraine at the expense of the U.S. economy, a sign of rising anxiety over inflation, according to The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey. While broad support for U.S. sanctions hasn't faltered, opinions on prioritizing sanctions over the economy has shifted. Currently, 45% of U.S. adults say the nation’s bigger priority should be sanctioning Russia, while 51% say it should be limiting damage to the U.S. economy. In April, the figures were exactly reversed. The shift of opinion reflects how rising prices are biting into American households and their psyche. (Source: The AP 05/24/22) Economy bigger priority than punishing Russia: AP-NORC poll | AP News

$1.5B Airbus support contract

Airbus will continue to provide spare parts, related materials and engineering support for the Army’s fleet of 482 UH-72A and UH-72B Lakota utility and training helicopters under a potential 5-year, $1.5B contract.  Airbus' space and defense business will oversee the Contractor Logistics Support contract, which has a base term of six months and an option period of four and a half years. Lakota is a twin-engine aircraft used by the Army and built at its Columbus, Miss.-based facility. The company will provide support services across 67 sites in the U.S. and abroad, including Fort Rucker, Ala., and National Guard bases in 43 states. (Source: 05/24/22) Airbus Secures $1.5B Follow-On Contract for Army Helicopter Logistics Support - GovCon Wire

Stennis backs small biz boot camp

Most people are familiar with large aerospace companies, but how many know of the thousands of suppliers, including small businesses, that contribute to NASA’s missions? Many small businesses, especially those representing minority, under-represented or underserved segments of society, do not know of the opportunities as well. A recent “Minority Boot Camp” pilot project supported by NASA’s Stennis Space Center (Miss.) focused on the issue. Over six weekly virtual sessions, the Louisiana Technology Transfer Office located at Stennis worked with (1) the Small Business Administration’s Louisiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) based at Louisiana State University, (2) the Small Business Administration’s Office of Investment and Innovation, (3) Xavier University of Louisiana, and (4) the NASA Office of Technology Development to offer more than 300 boot camp participants a unique opportunity to learn about federal research-and-development (R&D) funding opportunities for university faculty and small businesses. During virtual sessions, individuals also learned about the processes of bidding on federal contracts and drafting federally sponsored research proposals. SBDC utilized federal grants to organize the pilot project as part of outreach efforts to help make minority-owned companies and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) more aware of the opportunities through the Small Business Administration’s grant programs. The event at Xavier University was loosely modeled after a similar minority-oriented boot camp held several years ago at Jackson State University. Based on the success of the effort, “Vic” Johnson, associate director of the Louisiana Technology Transfer Office, said the office is exploring the possibility of hosting a minority-focused boot camp later this year at another HBCU in Louisiana. “When you have that kind of relationship and partnership at NASA, good things are going to happen,” concluded Johnson. (Source: Stennis 05/19/22) Stennis Collaborates on Small Business ‘Boot Camp’ Project | NASA

Challenges for women seafarers

Despite only making up only 2% of the global seafaring industry, women are advancing up the Caribbean maritime career ladder into senior positions, according to Claudia Grant of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ). As the global shipping community geared up to celebrate the first International Day for Women in Maritime, Grant, deputy director general of MAJ, said the industry is changing for the better and urged more companies to put in place gender integration policies to smooth the path for future generations. (Source: Work Boat 05/19/22) Women are climbing the maritime career ladder, Caribbean port official says | WorkBoat

In a sidebar story, Mission to Seafarers published a report - “Beyond the 2%, Women Seafarers and their Lives at Sea: Reflecting on Our Call to Care” - intended to act as a discussion document for maritime welfare providers. Women face unique challenges at sea, and it's tailored its support to contribute towards a better future for female seafarers. But despite many initiatives, women are still under-represented in the industry making up 2% of the world’s estimated 1.2M seafarers. More needs to be done to attract and retain women in the industry. Working at sea present a range of challenges, but there are issues specific to women to adapt to the male dominated environment. The Mission aims to highlight some of the difficulties that women still encounter at sea in this report, including challenges specific to different vessels, such as cargo ships, cruise ships and superyachts. (Source: Work Boat 05/19/22) Report explores key challenges faced by women seafarers | WorkBoat

Port NOLA, RR promotions

* Sharonda Williams was sworn in as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) at May 19's board meeting. Appointed by Gov. John Bel Edwards, Williams succeeds Darryl D. Berger as one of four Orleans Parish representatives on the seven-member regional board and will serve a five-year term.

* The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Commission (NOPB), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA), has named Tomeka Watson Bryant as its General Manager effective June 1, 2022. With this promotion, Watson Bryant, who has received industry-wide recognition, becomes the first African American woman to lead a short line railroad in the United States.

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UM team explores nutrient removal

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi biology professor Cliff Ochs is working to understand how the Mississippi River’s floodplain lakes and “backwaters” may help remove nutrients that contribute to Gulf of Mexico's “Dead Zone.” Ochs and his research team will evaluate the role that backwater lakes and wetlands in the Mississippi River floodplain play in removal of nutrients and production of algae. They also will create a computer model that helps to determine the controlling factors for these processes. Gulf hypoxia occurs when excess nutrients are carried downstream into the GoM - mainly runoff of fertilizers and wastewater getting into the river and its tributaries.  These nutrients promote the growth of microscopic algae (phytoplankton), which sinks into deeper water and decompose and deplete the water of oxygen. The team's data caught the eye of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After publishing a paper in River Research and Applications, Ochs was approached by the corps to submit a proposal for funding. The project, “Modeling Relationships Among Lower Mississippi River Backwaters Hydromorphology and Biogeochemical and Ecological Processes,” is in its second year of support. (Source: UM 05/18/22)Biologist Explores Nutrient Removal in Mississippi River Backwaters - Ole Miss News

FedEx center completion in months

The FedEx Ground distribution center at the Golden Triangle Industrial Park in Columbus, Miss., should be completed "by late summer, maybe early fall," according to Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Joe Max Higgins. The building is about one-half of the total investment, he told The Dispatch. “The guesstimate" was about $25M for the building, and conservatively around $50M in value. The distribution center is located on about 41 acres near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport. The center will be between 217,000 and 235,000 square feet.” Lowndes County Board of Supervisors President Trip Hairston said there’s no downside for the county. It means more ad valorem tax revenue ($1M) for the county. It'll create "probably" up to 200 jobs, Higgins said. (Source: The Dispatch 05/22/22) New FedEx distribution center to open later this year - The Dispatch (cdispatch.com) 

Regional aero/aviation job post

 Gulf Coast aerospace/aviation job posting

Eaton: Jackson, Miss. Division Quality Manager - $130,400 to $179,300 annual salary. Full-Time: Eaton's Aerospace group is currently seeking a Division Quality Manager to join the global team.  This position can be based remotely from anywhere within the US, but the preferred location is anywhere within 50 miles of an Eaton site. Division Quality Manager Job in Jackson, MS at Eaton (ziprecruiter.com) 

CG rescues 7 boaters & dog

GULFPORT, Miss. - The Coast Guard rescued a dog and seven people from a boat that caught fire near Gulfport on May 21. A mayday call from the boat was sent around 9:30 a.m. An aircrew was dispatched to the vessel's location and deployed a life raft. A CG boat crew later retrieve the boaters and dog on this first day of National Safe Boating Week. The boaters were last reported to be in stable condition. (Source: WLOX 05/22/22)

Playing homage to Black cowboys

 In Tunica, Miss., a Memphis cowboy's new Black rodeo pays homage to those before them. (Source: Memphis Commercial Appel 05/22/22) In Tunica, a Memphis cowboy's new Black rodeo pays homage to those before them (clarionledger.com)

Louisiana business accolades

* LSU College of the Coast & Environment Professor Nancy Rabalais was inducted as a member of the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C. She was among 120 elected members - the only one from Louisiana. She was recognized for her distinguished achievements in original research in 2021. She is also among the 59 women who have been elected, the most women elected in a single year. Rabalais is an LSU Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences professor and the Shell Endowed Chair in oceanography and wetland studies. 

* Nicole Buranzon Cutforth has been promoted to Louisiana regional director for Aptim’s Coastal, Ports & Marine division. Cutforth also serves as the market sector director for flood control for the division. She has been with the company for 16 years and is the senior project manager for the Houma Navigation Canal Lock Complex and the Bayou Chene Flood Protection Structure. Aptim is a global engineering and environmental consulting firm.

* Paul Danos, owner and CEO of Danos, has been elected as chair of the National Ocean Industries Association for 2022-23. Danos is a third-generation owner, CEO and president of the Gray, La.-based oilfield service provider. He joined the company in 2005 as project manager of the offshore construction and fabrication division and later served as VP of U.S. operations and executive VP. Danos previously worked at Stonehenge Capital, Arthur Andersen and Plains All American Pipeline. 

* Jon Renthrope has been named interim executive director for the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce. Renthrope is CEO of Cajun Fire Brewing Company and an internationally recognized brew master. He had been serving as a member of the NORBCC Board of Directors. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Florida and a master's in community development finance from the University of New Orleans. (Source: NOLA.com 05/22/20)

GoM's May conditions worrisome

 As the Gulf Coast gears up for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, beginning June 1, forecasters are keeping an eye on the Loop Current in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The current is formed as warm water flows up from the Caribbean Sea into the Northern Atlantic around the Greater Antilles. In some cases, the current forms a channel deep into the GoM that can break off into a circulating area of warm water as the original current restructures - similar to how bubbles are blown. Except instead of air, a spinning bubble (eddy) is filled with warm water that can make hurricanes more dangerous, according to Nick Shay, professor of oceanography at the University of Miami. Shay said forecasters are worried that present conditions in the GoM  could lead to an eddy early in the season, similar to 2005 (Hurricane Katrina). As tropical depressions or storms move into the GoM, chances of a hurricane rise as it move over warm waters. "I have been monitoring ocean heat content for more than 30 years as a marine scientist," Shay wrote in The Conversation. "The conditions I'm seeing in the Gulf in May are cause for concern ... The Loop Current has the potential to supercharge some of those storms." Shay pointed to a Colorado State University forecast that predicts an above-average (19-storm) season. AccuWeather predicts even more. (Source: Chron 05/18/22) How the Gulf of Mexico's Loop Current may make storms more intense this hurricane season (msn.com)

CG medevacs tug crewman

NEW ORLEANS -The Coast Guard medevaced a 60-year-old crewman of a tugboat May 20 about seven miles south of Pascagoula, Miss. Coast Guard Sector Mobil, Ala., received a call from the tugboat Miss Beth of a crewman experiencing heart attack-like symptoms. The CG launched a 29-foot Response Boat and crew to assist from Pascagoula. The boat crew transferred the man to awaiting emergency medical services personnel at Station Pascagoula. The man was last reported in stable condition. (Source: Coast Guard 05/21/22)

Plum Creek exceeds expectations

Last fall, the West Point, Miss., company Plum Creek Environmental, which makes waste containers and recycling equipment, took advantage of a rebate program from the Mississippi Development Authority to help defray the costs of a $3M expansion. Six months later, the company has far exceeded expectations. They were able to purchase a 60,000 sf across the street to double production, Plum Creek founder Jim Wamble said. The expansion increased revenues and created almost 100 jobs. (Source: 6ParkNews 05/20/22) Plum Creek Expansion Exceeds Expectations – 6PARK.NEWS/MISSISSIPPI

MS aquarium's dinosaurs exhibit

The Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport is going back to the stone age this summer with its newest exhibit, Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors. Starting May 28, visitors can learn more about the creatures that once walked the Earth at the outdoor exhibit featuring10 life-sized dinosaurs including the Spinosaurus, Hadrosaurus, and T-Rex. The full schedule will be announced as the summer festivities take off next week, and remain open until Oct. 2. Aquarium’s website for more information. (Source: Super Talk Mississippi 04/20/22) Mississippi Aquarium announces Dinosaurs Around the World exhibit - SuperTalk Mississippi

Census under-counted Miss.

The latest report from the Census Bureau shows six states' population - primarily in the South - was undercounted. Mississippi is estimated to have been under-counted by 4.11 percent. In other words, the state gained population in the last 10 years to the tune of more than 100,000 people. (Source: WLOX 05/20/22) Latest census report indicates Mississippi’s population was undercounted in 2020 (wlox.com)

'Run for the Wall' returns to MS

MERIDIAN, Miss. - The 'Run for the Wall' 3,000-mile biker event to honor veterans is returning full-strength after a two-year draught due to the pandemic. Bikers from all over the country are participating in the annual ride that honors all Veterans, prisoners of war and those still missing in action. Newton and Meridian are part of the Southern Route that will bring bikers to town May 23-24. Hundreds of bikers are riding the 3,000 miles from California to Washington, D.C., to bring attention to the cause. “It started in 2001, coming through Meridian, and it has been coming through every year except for the past two,” said event coordinator, David Kimbrell. There are three routes. Mississippi is on the Southern Route. The Veterans Appreciation Committee said it wants as many people as possible out supporting the riders. It’s scheduled to arrive in Meridian shortly before 5 p.m. Monday. You may follow the route at the Run for the Wall website. (Source: WTOK 05/20/22)

Yokohama hiring; Miss. settlement

WEST POINT, Miss. – Yokohama Tire Manufacturing in West Point wants to be the employer of choice throughout the Golden Triangle region. Philip Calhoun, Vice President of Manufacturing and Operations, estimates the plant contributes at least $6M annually to the local economy. The firm has nearly a half-million tires on back order from clients, he says. It takes a lot of people to make a half-million tires, which is why Yokohama currently has about 100 jobs available. At the same time, Yokohama has established a new high school summer program called ITIRE (Increasing Talented Innovators through Real Experiences). (Source: WCBI 05/18/22) Higher pay, summer internship part of Yokohama Tire's plan to become Golden Triangle's top employer (wcbi.com) 

Miss. to get $252K from Ford settlement: JACKSON, Miss. - Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch announced a 41-state settlement with Ford Motor Company. According to several claims, Ford falsely advertised the real-world fuel economy of 2013-14 C-Max hybrids and the payload capacity of model year 2011-14 Super Duty pickup trucks. Mississippi will receive $252,066.74 from the settlement. The $19.2M settlement included the attorneys general of Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, Oregon, Texas, Vermont, California, New Jersey, Missouri, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Ohio, Washington, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Massachusetts, Indiana, Wisconsin, Louisiana, Minnesota, Tennessee, Iowa, Kansas, Utah, Alabama, Nebraska, Kentucky, New Mexico, Connecticut, Arkansas, Nevada, West Virginia, North Dakota, Maine, District of Columbia, and Rhode Island. (Source: WJTV 05/18/22)

Ala. NG hydrate partner nations

PRICE BARRACKS, Belize - Alabama Army National Guard soldiers have been purifying and delivering potable water to service members participating in Operation Tradewinds 2022 in Belize this month. Sgt. 1st Class Veronica O’Neal and 16 other Soldiers from the 1208th Quartermaster Company - based in Anniston - used the tactical water purification system (TWPS) to deliver over 17,000 gallons of water in the first eight days to U.S. service members and partner nations across many training sites. (Source: National Guard 05/20/22) Alabama National Guard Soldiers hydrate partner nations > National Guard > Guard News - The National Guard 

Unemployment down in MS, AL, LA

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released its State Employment and Unemployment Summary for April. Unemployment rates were lower in 13 states and stable in 37. The national unemployment rate (3.6%) was unchanged over the previous month and at 2.4 percentage points lower than April 2021. Mississippi's unemployment rate for April was 4.1%. Mississippi stands at a 2.1 percent decrease from April 2021. Alabama set a new unemployment record of 2.8%. It was 2.9% in March. Lamar (2%) and Pickens (2.6%) counties, in far west Alabama, both saw drops in unemployment.  The not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for Louisiana in April was 3.5%, which is the lowest rate ever recorded since 1976. The rate shows a decrease of 0.3 percentage points from the revised March not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8%. (Sources: DoL/WCBI/KATC/Star Herald 05/20/22)

MS care facility under paid workers

The U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division investigators found that Open Heart Senior Home Care of Port Gibson, Miss., paid straight-time rates to employees for hours over 40 in a work week, and failed to pay the extra half-time rate as the Fair Labor Standards Act requires. The employer coded these hours under different categories such as training and employee appreciation. A total of $39,410 in back wages were recovered for 28 workers. “The healthcare industry is expanding quickly as the demand for services from an aging population grows," said Wage and Hour Division District Director Audrey Hall in Jackson, Miss. "Unfortunately, we find wage violations all-too-commonly." The Department of Labor exists to hold employers accountable when they fail to meet required obligations. Employers can contact the Wage and Hour Division at its toll-free number, 1-866-4-US-WAGE. The division also offers numerous online resources for employers, such as a fact sheet on Fair Labor Standards Act wage laws overtime requirements. (Source: Dept of Labor 05/29/22) US Department of Labor recovers $39K in back wages for 28 workers after uncovering overtime violations by Mississippi home healthcare agency | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov)

CG medevacs injured crewman

NEW ORLEANS - The Coast Guard medevaced a 28-year-old male crewmember May 17 from a bulk carrier vessel near New Orleans. CG watch-standers received notification by personnel aboard the vessel UBC Stavanger that a crewmember was reportedly experiencing pain from an electrical incident. The CG launched an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew to respond. The aircrew hoisted the man into the helicopter before transporting him to West Jefferson Medical Center in Marrero. The man was last reported in stable condition. (Source: Coast Guard 05/19/20) Video: DVIDS - Video - Coast Guard medevacs crewmember from bulk carrier vessel near New Orleans (dvidshub.net)

3D printed rocket launch June 1?

While many rocket manufacturers use 3D-printing technology to create components for spacecraft, the first entirely printed rocket may take flight as early as June 1. That was announced by Long Beach, Calif.-based Relativity Space. The company successfully completed a 60-second full-duration mission duty cycle test for stage two of its rocket, the Terran 1, at Stennis Space Center, Miss., in April. The test marks the first time a 3D-printed stage has undergone acceptance testing. Relativity also completed acceptance testing for all nine Aeon 1 engines for stage one of the rocket. The company completed its first full-duration mission duty cycle of the Aeon, which ran for 310 seconds, in January. Both stages will now be shipped to Relativity’s launch pad, LC-16, at Cape Canaveral. (Source: Long Beach Business Journal, 05/18/22)

MSU's unique Data Science degree

STARKVILLE, Miss. - Mississippi State University students have a new, one-of-a-kind Data Science program when considering degree options. The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees approved MSU’s new Bachelor of Science in Data Science degree program May 19. The curriculum goes beyond traditional data science degrees “to meet the growing demand for experts who can solve problems through digital transformation,” said Mimmo Parisi, MSU’s senior advisor for data science development. MSU’s program is one of two in the Southeastern Conference and among less than 75 nationwide. The degree recognizes that industries are moving toward digital transformation - a blend of the physical world with digital aspects - to rapidly progress their businesses and develop in a fast-paced economy, Parisi said. Employers want data science experts with interdisciplinary, critical thinking skills - including statistics, ethics, geoinformatics, computational intelligence and cybersecurity. MSU's  multi-field approach ... will train graduates for the 11M jobs that the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates will require data science skills and knowledge by 2026,” said Parisi. Starting in the fall semester, the program will incorporate the tool of artificial intelligence powered by big data in nine academic concentrations within six of he university’s eight colleges. (Source: MSU 05/19/22) MSU announces new, one-of-a-kind Bachelor of Science in Data Science degree program | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)

1st Marine Blues pilot remembered

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Every year, millions of people take in the Navy's Blue Angels aviation spectacle. When Jacksonville resident Lynne Kelly sees the Blues, she sees her beloved grandfather, Marine Capt. Chuck Hiett, in the cockpit of the No. 5 plane. He was the first Marine pilot to join the team in 1954. Hiett and the crew made great memories, coming up with a new flight maneuver called the “solo loop to landing.” according to Kelly. “He just told me stories (and) would laugh,” she said. He only performed with the group for one year after that, eventually moving on with his career and achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1967, he was contacted "to be their flight leader,” Kelly told News4 JAX. “Unfortunately, the Marine Corps Commandant ... sent him to Vietnam.” In the 1970s, the Blue Angels sent a request to add a C-130 to the team. Hiett saw it and found the only C-130 that wasn’t planned to be a tanker and approved the request. After that, he thought of himself "as the father of the legendary Fat Albert." For his service and history-making stint with the Blues, which started in Jacksonville in the early 1950s, Kelly said Hiett was awarded the Gray Award. Sadly, he wasn’t able to see it. He died in March at age 93. (Source: News4JAX 05/19/22) Remembering Capt. Chuck Hiett: The Blue Angels’ first Marine Corps pilot (news4jax.com)

NOAA RfP for Class B ships

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NNOAA) is soliciting offers to design and build up to four Class B ships of the same design that the agency plans to use on data collection efforts in coastal, continental shelf and deep ocean settings. The ships are to be added to its fleet of research and survey ships and aircraft managed and operated by the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, according to a request for proposals posted May 19 on SAM.gov. The single-award contract will provide for two ocean survey vessels with options for two more. Responses to the RfP are due Aug. 16 and NOAA anticipates a contract award by 2023. (Source: GovConWire 05/20/22) NOAA Seeks Proposals for New Ocean Survey Ships - GovCon Wire

DDG named for Filipino MoH winner

 WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced May 19 that a future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer will be named USS Telesforo Trinidad (DDG 139). The future USS Telesforo Trinidad (DDG 139) will honor Fireman 2nd Class Telesforo De La Cruz Trinidad, the only Filipino in the U.S. Navy to be awarded the Medal of Honor. (Source: Navy 05/19/22) Gulf Coast Note: The future DDG 139 will be built at HII-Pascagoula, Miss. SECNAV Names Future Arleigh Burke-class Destroyer Telesforo Trinidad > United States Navy > News-Stories

La. LNGs scramble to meet demand

The invasion of Ukraine has aggravated the supply of gas leaving Gulf Coast liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporters scrambling to meet European/Asian demands with terminals expanding and new facilities on the boards. The U.S. is the world’s largest LNG exporter with most of the capacity concentrated off Louisiana and Texas. On March 1, a fifth export terminal officially joined the ranks as Venture Global LNG of Virginia and Tokyo-based JERA Global Markets Pte. Ltd loaded the first cargo from the fast-tracked Calcasieu Pass LNG export facility in Cameron, La. At a total capacity of 10 MTPA, the facility holds the global greenfield speed record, having gone from final investment decision to production in 29 months, according to Venture Global. Venture began construction last year on the 20-MTPA Plaquemines LNG terminal in Plaquemines Parish, La., and expects to do the same next year on the CP2 LNG facility, also in Cameron Parish, La. The greenfield terminals are included in two 20-year sales and purchase agreements. (Source: Work Boat 05/18/22) U.S. LNG exports help fill supply gap | WorkBoat

Earlier this year, the nation’s largest LNG exporter, Cheniere Energy, completed the construction of the sixth processing train at the pacesetting Sabine Pass export terminal in Louisiana. Cheniere exported 2,018 TBtu from the Sabine Pass and newer Corpus Christi, Texas, export facilities in 2021, a 46% increase over 2020.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects U.S. LNG exports will average 11.3 billion cubic feet per day (BCFD) in 2022, up 16% from last year.

Vertex's $130M pact for AF

MADISON, Miss. – The Vertex Company was awarded a contract valued up to $130M to maintain helicopters for the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC). The helicopters maintained by this contract provide support and security for AFGSC’s missions and weapons including intercontinental ballistic missiles and bomber aircraft. Under the contract, Vertex will maintain two helicopter types assigned to the 582nd Helicopter Group: A UH-1N “Twin Huey” and MH-139 “Grey Wolf”. The maintenance work includes the helicopters, engines, aircrew flight equipment and ground equipment. Work is expected to take place at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyoming; Minot AFB, North Dakota; and Malmstrom AFB, Montana. (Source: Vertex 05/18/22) Media - The Vertex Company (vtxco.com)

TechSpark-Miss. to aid brain gain

Long Beach native JJ Townsend will spearhead a new effort in Mississippi by Microsoft called TechSpark. It's a program designed to expand technology education and business development in regions that are short of opportunities. TechSpark was established in October 2017 when Microsoft chose six regions of America where it would invest staff, money and resources to help train today's workers and prepare future leaders. The ultimate goal is to meet the region's needs for a technologically skilled workforce. TechSpark develops programs for residents at every stage of education and career, Townsend said. Microsoft chose Jackson, Miss., to launch a new TechSpark initiative,” said Janet Parker, director of business development and marketing for Innovate Mississippi. “It isn’t cookie cutter," she said. The company recognizes that every community has its own unique challenges ultimately attracting people to live and work in Mississippi and leading to brain gain instead of brain drain.” TechSpark has seen significant projects come to life in Central Washington; Southern Virginia; Cheyenne, Wyoming; Fargo, North Dakota; Northeastern Wisconsin; and the cross-border region of El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Mississippi employers are looking to hire people with strong digital skills as a driver of economic recovery and growth. Recent analysis from the Mississippi Economic Council identified the lack of qualified workers was the No. 1 issue impacting the business climate in the state. TechSpark has announced support for four programs: Jackson State University’s Cybersecurity Readiness program; gener8tor Skills Accelerator Mississippi; Innovate Mississippi’s CoBuilders Accelerator; and Jackson Tech District Makerspace. (Source: Clarion Ledger 05/19/22) Microsoft's new TechSpark program to boost tech skills in Mississippi (clarionledger.com)

Petal grad is Presidential Scholar

PETAL, Miss. - Ritchie Yang graduated from Petal High School with the highest ACT score in the school. Recently, he was selected as one of only two Mississippi students to earn a U.S. Presidential Scholar. A total of 161 high school seniors nationwide were selected by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. He is also Pearl's first Presidential Scholar in history. This summer, the Presidential Scholars Class of 2022 will gather virtually to be recognized. Yang is headed to Stanford University with the goal of pursuing a double major in statistics and computer science, and "I’m also pursuing a coterminal degree with a master’s in business administration.” (Source: WDAM 05/18/22)

DoD regional contract May 18

Alpha Marine Services LLC, Galliano, Louisiana, was awarded a $9,676,923 modification (P00042) under a previously awarded firm fixed-price contract (N3220518C3520) to fund the fourth 11-month option period for U.S.-flagged maritime support vessel M/V Kellie Chouest, in support of U.S. Southern Command. This contract includes a 12-month base period, three 12-month option periods, and one 11-month option period, which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $60,711,888. Work is to be performed at sea, worldwide, starting June 1, 2022, and is expected to be completed, if all options are exercised, by April 30, 2023. The option will be funded by fiscal 2022 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website, and three offers were received. The Navy’s Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. (Awarded May 17, 2022) (Source: DoD 05/18/22)

CAF brings living history to MS

GULFPORT, Miss. - The Commemorative Air Force is bringing to Gulfport-Biloxi a chance to go back in time to find out what life was like for service members during WWII. The group will be visiting the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport through May 19 with a vintage B-17 bomber. Tours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Inside the plane is 88-year-old Dan Ragan. “I love to fly this. I love to talk to the kids and families,” he told WLOX. Ragan served as a crew member of this plane back in 1952. At that point, the B-17 was used by the Navy. They say it's a living history museum. To book a seat on the plane, you can reserve a spot online at www.B-17TexasRaiders.org or call 855-FLY-A-B17. (Source: WLOX 05/16/22) The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is an American non-profit organization based in Dallas and dedicated to preserving and showing historical aircraft at airshows primarily throughout the U.S. and Canada.