LISTEN

Frank Foti, president and CEO of Vigor Industrial, says the Ketchikan Shipyard is "Alaska's newest and best ship-building facility."

He's biased, since his Portland-headquartered company owns Alaska Ship and Drydock. He elaborated during a speech celebrating last spring's opening of a new ship-construction hall.

"After the collapse of the timber economy here, these leaders saw an opportunity for growth and jobs and economic prosperity, while others saw only derelict infrastructure and a dying industry," he said. (Watch a time-lapse video of the hall's construction.)

A new study shows the shipyard is a key contributor to the region, with about 120 employees and $37 million in annual revenues. It's part of Southeast's maritime or "blue" economy. (Click here to read the report.)

Read the full story at KTOO-FM>>

Have you listened to this article via the audio player above?

If so, send us your feedback around what we can do to improve this feature or further develop it. If not, check it out and let us know what you think via email or on social media.

A collection of stories from guest authors.

Join the Conversation