Hanwha Philadelphia Shipyard
Philadelphia, PA
By Odegaard Fields
Aug 26, 2025
Good afternoon— It is a privilege to stand before you today, representing the Regiment of Midshipmen and student body at Maine Maritime Academy.
I want to acknowledge the distinguished President Lee of South Korea and the First Lady, Cabinet members, state and local officials, leaders from the Maritime Administration, officials from the State of Maine, our partners at Hanwha Philly Shipyard, TOTE and leaders within the industry.
Equally important, I want to recognize those closest to us as students— my classmates, our professors, the State of Maine crew, and the incredibly strong Maine Maritime Academy family. Each of you are part of what makes the Maine Maritime experience possible.
My studies in Castine, Maine have covered all the practical elements of safe navigation in preparation for my career at sea. Yet in addition to the hands-on education, MMA has developed in me and my classmates, the skills of a good leader, a great citizen and a strong community builder and traits such as empathy, courage and a cool head under pressure, all of which are required for a life on the ocean.
The NSMV program, introducing purpose-built ships designed to train the mariners and leaders of the 21st century reflects the core directives that I have seen in our curriculum and culture in Castine. There are many people who have worked tirelessly to bring this program to life, but none more so than Madame Secretary Elaine Chao. 8 years ago, she was the driving voice behind a fleet of purpose-built ships, and together with Senator Susan Collins, made that dream a reality.
Secretary Chao’s career is marked by historic leadership as the first Asian American woman appointed to a President’s cabinet in America’s history. Her decades of service advancing transportation, labor and the maritime industry are extraordinary.
Through her foresight, the NSMV program was established and reflects what Maine Maritime Academy stands for: service, leadership, and a consistent dedication to our community, big and small.
Secretary Chao has demonstrated that the best way forward is together—and, like on the water, we find our strength when we row as one.
Now, if the distinguished speakers on the dais would please stand and face the ship, it is my distinct honor, to introduce the 18th U. S. Secretary of Transportation & 24th U.S. Secretary of Labor, the Honorable Elaine Chao.
