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Babin highlights domestic maritime impact on economy, jobs
Pasadena Citizen
By Y.C. Orozco
February 24, 2016
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With a new study ranking Texas third in the U.S. for domestic maritime jobs and Houston second among cities for its impact to the national maritime industry, Congressman Brian Babin highlighted those findings while touring the Kinder Morgan BOSTCO Facility in La Porte on Tuesday.

As a former merchant mariner, congressman Babin stressed the impact domestic maritime industry stability has on his district, which boasts the largest number of maritime jobs in the state.

“With a district that is home to one of the largest ports in our nation, the PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers for the Transportation Institute)

study reminds us how proud we are to not only be a major source of good-paying jobs for Texas but also a leading contributor to our state and national economy,” Babin said.

The recent study was conducted by the PwC and released by the American Maritime Partnership. The maritime industry is also a major force in providing a new generation a role in strong career paths, and one that ensures the U.S. maritime industry’s continued growth and stability.

"The domestic maritime industry provides opportunities for students at San Jacinto College's new Maritime Technology and Training Center to receive the critical skills necessary for careers on the water,” said Dr. Brenda Hellyer, chancellor of San Jacinto College. “Creating the workforce needed in this industry will help secure our nation's maritime capabilities.”

The domestic maritime industry, which is comprised of vessels moving cargoes between U.S. ports, drives an annual $8 billion into the Texas economy, supporting 39,190 jobs with $2.3 billion in worker income.

“I'm proud to say that in my district alone, there are more than 2,500 family-wage jobs that contribute $674 million to the local economy, due in large part to the thousands of hard working men and women who are the true strength of the maritime industry," said Congressman Randy Weber (R-TX).

The consistent development along the Houston Ship Channel has provided a strong economic boost in the industry.

“There has been phenomenal growth along the Houston Ship Channel over the last five years,” said Captain Robert Shearon, presiding officer of Houston Pilots.

“The number of vessel transits and new waterfront facilities continue to increase – both indicators of the health and important economic impact of our Port. The Houston Pilots are proud of their work in support of making the Port of Houston safe and prosperous.”

Congressman Gene Green ties the maritime industry to not only economic stability but domestic security while providing a strong global presence as an international provider of commodities.

“I have proudly represented the Port of Houston for more than 20 years,” he said. “These industries provide reliable jobs in our area and generate enormous revenue,” he said. “When our Port does well, our nation does well. I will continue to fight for funding and resources for the Port of Houston in the House of Representatives.”