Austal USA hosts National Association of Women Business Owners

MOBILE, Ala. – Austal USA hosted members of the Alabama chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) at its shipyard in Mobile, Ala., Sept. 14. Austal USA partnered with NAWBO as both organizations share a strong commitment to the success of businesses and the communities that surround them.

NAWBO was founded in 1975 by a group of businesswomen to advocate and support the entrepreneurial interests of women-owned businesses through a network of over 50 chapters nationwide. In their effort to promote economic development, NAWBO builds and strengthens partnerships with corporations and organizations that help support and propel the growth of its members by providing visibility, access, resources and opportunities.

During the visit to Austal USA’s shipyard, NAWBO members heard from Christy Taylor, controller of Austal USA, and toured the company’s advanced manufacturing facilities.  The visit to Austal USA marked the Alabama chapter’s first corporate engagement since its inception in 2020.

As the principle speaker, Taylor spoke on her experience as a financial leader. With more than 25 years of progressive experience in finance and operations management, Taylor spoke on how Austal USA executes multibillion-dollar contracts with the Department of Defense and how other businesses can implement sound strategies for growth. Taylor also emphasized the importance of leadership and the need to cultivate success by motivating excellence in others. 

“Yesterday was groundbreaking for NAWBO Alabama. The demonstrated support, thought leadership, and commitment to provide opportunities for women and women business owners is a meaningful marker for our relationship building luncheon with Austal USA,” commented Dr. Valerie D.W. James, president of Vision Spot Enterprises and NAWBO Alabama. “We were impressed with Austal’s demonstration and support for women who have equity both in the workplace and in businesses within our community.”