On July 7, 2023, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled a significant investment at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, where Rhoads Industries is set to expand its manufacturing operations with a nearly $100 million infusion of funds.
This initiative is projected to generate a minimum of 450 new, well-paying jobs while ensuring the retention of 541 existing full-time positions.
Rhoads Industries plans to construct a new 95,000-square-foot facility aimed at enhancing its production capacity to support the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base and its submarine program.
The new facility will facilitate a continuous fabrication process, thereby expediting manufacturing and outfitting processes, while also providing direct access to a pier for the barge shipping of completed products.
Governor Shapiro highlights the historical significance of shipbuilding in Philadelphia, stating, “Shipbuilding has always been a key part of Philadelphia’s identity and our economy.
Today, I’m proud to announce that Rhoads Industries is investing $100 million and creating over 450 new jobs at the Navy Yard.”
He continues, “With support from the Commonwealth—including a new $4 million investment and more than $17 million over the past decade—Rhoads will expand its footprint, double its capacity for the U.S. Navy’s submarine program, and strengthen our national security.”
Shapiro emphasizes the importance of Pennsylvania workers in this endeavor, asserting, “We’re investing in that future because it’s good for our economy, our communities, and for the people of Pennsylvania.”
Rhoads Industries received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), which includes a $4 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant.
Additionally, the company operates in a Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ), providing substantial tax savings.
Over the years, the Commonwealth has consistently supported Rhoads, investing over $17 million in multiple RACP grants to facilitate the company’s expansions and facility improvements.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger commented on the significance of this investment, stating, “Rhoads has called Philadelphia home for nearly 130 years, and the Shapiro administration is glad they’re doubling down and investing yet again in our Commonwealth.
This investment supports our national security and economic security and strengthens our manufacturing sector in Southeastern Pennsylvania—one of the key industries we’re focusing on in the Governor’s economic development strategy.”
Founded in 1896, Rhoads Industries is a family-owned enterprise that specializes in large-scale industrial fabrication alongside mechanical and maintenance maritime services.
The company boasts extensive shipyard facilities, with over 300,000 square feet dedicated to heavy manufacturing located at the Navy Yard in Philadelphia.
According to CEO Dan Rhoads, Jr., “This investment by the Commonwealth will expedite and accelerate our production output and rapid hiring by at least one year.
Governor Shapiro’s commitment to our company is significant and signals the importance of the defense industry’s growth in Pennsylvania.”
Rhoads Industries also offers a paid, three-year state-accredited apprenticeship program, designed to prepare high school technical education graduates for careers within the submarine industrial base.
In collaboration with Boilermakers Local 19, the program trains apprentices to meet all military specification requirements by graduation.
Boots Olson, a welding apprentice at Rhoads Industries, expressed gratitude for the opportunities presented through the program, stating, “Throughout the last two years that I’ve been at Rhoads Industries, I’ve been offered so many amazing experiences—from the welding certs I’m allowed to acquire to the events I’m invited to be part of, and all of the people I have the joy of working with along the way.
My appreciation has grown immensely since becoming part of this program.
It’s taught me that every weld you put down represents who you are as a welder and what your workmanship looks like—and it takes a lot of pride to represent the industry the way it deserves.”
The Philadelphia Navy Yard continues to grow as a regional hub for innovation and manufacturing, currently housing over 150 employers and employing approximately 15,000 individuals.
This development aligns with the Shapiro administration’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy, marking the first such initiative in over two decades.
Greg Deavens, board chair of The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, applauded the announcement, stating, “We’re celebrating the success of an outstanding company with Philadelphia roots that are nearly 130 years deep.
Even more, we’re excited to celebrate another example of what can be achieved in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania when the private and public sectors work in sync for the benefit of the communities and citizens we serve.”
Deavens acknowledged Rhoads Industries’ commitment and noted the proactive approach taken by the Shapiro administration in supporting projects that invigorate local economies and foster job creation.
“Governor Shapiro, I want to thank you and your Administration for aligning your attitude with your actions to make this Commonwealth a more competitive and attractive place for businesses and residents alike,” Deavens added.
Representative Jordan Harris, chairman of the PA House Appropriations Committee, also voiced support for the Governor’s initiatives.
He mentioned, “I’m grateful for the Governor’s leadership and what he continues to do on behalf of the folks of the Commonwealth—making sure we don’t just give people words but deliver real action.
Through his tremendous leadership, we’ve been investing all across Pennsylvania: building things, cutting down on red tape and bureaucracy, and making sure economic development isn’t just a phrase or a slogan, but truly how we work in this Commonwealth.”
image source from：philasun
