KEY TAKEAWAYS: Louisiana Innovation released a film highlighting the state’s next-generation shipbuilding industry. The film explores automation, robotics, artificial intelligence and precision manufacturing in maritime production. Louisiana officials see growing opportunities tied to autono mous vessels and other advanced maritime platforms. Gov. Jeff Landry narrates a new trailer connecting the film to Louisiana Innovation’s broader series.   Louisiana Innovation has released a new short film highlighting the state’s growing role in next-generation shipbuilding as automation, artificial intelligence and autonomous vessel technology reshape the maritime industry. The Louisiana Economic Development division announced the release of “LA.IO Presents: Louisiana Shipbuilding,” which examines the state’s maritime manufacturing industry and the technologies being incorporated into modern shipbuilding. The film focuses on advanced manufacturing, engineering and emerging maritime technologies, including automation, robotics, artificial intelligence and precision manufacturing. Louisiana Innovation said growing demand for autonomous vessels and other advanced maritime platforms could create additional opportunities for the state’s shipyards, manufacturers and workers. “Louisiana has always been a place where people solve complex challenges by building things that matter. This film shows that our shipbuilding story isn’t just about our history—it’s about what’s happening right now,” LED Chief Innovation Officer Josh Fleig said. “The technologies being developed and built here are defining the future of maritime innovation while creating new opportunities for Louisiana workers, entrepreneurs and manufacturers.” The film also connects Louisiana’s current shipbuilding industry with its maritime history, including the production of Higgins boats during World War II. It highlights the evolution of the industry toward projects such as ice cutters and autonomous surface vessels. The shipbuilding feature is the latest installment in the “LA.IO Presents: Stories of Louisiana Innovation” series, which highlights Louisiana businesses and industries developing technologies aimed at addressing economic and industrial challenges. Previous installments have featured Intralox, Delta Biofuel, MECO and Natrx, covering areas including advanced manufacturing, energy and coastal technology. Louisiana Innovation also released a new trailer for the series narrated by Gov. Jeff Landry. The trailer brings together projects in advanced manufacturing, energy, life sciences and coastal adaptation and will serve as an introduction to current and future installments. The film series has received several advertising and creative industry honors, including Gold ADDY Awards and six Viddy Awards. The broader Louisiana Innovation campaign has also received recognition from the American Advertising Federation of New Orleans, the Clio Awards and Fast Company. Louisiana Innovation, also known as LA.IO, is a division of Louisiana Economic Development focused on entrepreneurship, commercialization, workforce development and partnerships among businesses, universities and government. ...read more read less