A manufacturing company based at the Port of Iberia will invest $6.1 million at its plant and add 65 jobs.
Gulf Coast Tactical will expand its production of unmanned surface vehicles, patrol craft and other maritime platforms used in security operations, Louisiana Economic Development officials announced on Tuesday.
The jobs will pay an average annual salary of $80,000, which is 40% above the average Iberia Parish wage. The company will also retain its 16 current jobs.
“Louisiana’s maritime industry has supported generations of skilled manufacturing and defense operations, and companies like Gulf Coast Tactical are helping carry that legacy forward through next-generation technology and innovation,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “This expansion reinforces Louisiana’s leadership in maritime manufacturing as global demand grows for advanced defense and autonomous vessel capabilities.”
The news is another sign of the strength of Acadiana’s business climate and the growing manufacturing sector, said Troy Wayman, president and CEO of One Acadiana.