Last Thursday, the Henderson Alliance proudly hosted the Virginian Economic Development Partnership VEDP International Trade and Hampton Roads Alliance (HRA). 🇺🇸🤝🇦🇺 This visit was part of VEDP’s two-week mission to Australia, showcasing Virginia’s leadership in maritime security and defence. After starting at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney and continuing through Adelaide, their journey concluded in Henderson. 🌏⚓ For Henderson Alliance members whose expertise aligned with the needs of these US businesses, it was a fantastic chance to engage in B2B conversations and begin building relationships that will strengthen industry ties as we progress towards AUKUS. 💪🔧 On Friday Night, the VEDP and Hampton Roads teams joined us at the Annual Henderson Alliance WA Defence Industry Gala Dinner.🎉 A highlight of the evening (in addition to the dancing) was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Henderson Alliance Chairperson Rohan Green and Hampton Roads Alliance President & CEO Douglas L. Smith. This agreement establishes a collaborative framework between the Henderson Alliance and Hampton Roads Alliance with the objective to strengthen industrial workforce, and supply chains in support of the AUKUS partnership. Key objectives include: ✅ Aligning industrial capabilities for submarine construction, sustainment, and advanced maritime technologies. ✅ Linking supply chains across both regions to enable participation in AUKUS-related programs. ✅ Collaborating on workforce development and training in critical trades such as welding, systems integration, and nuclear-adjacent skills. ✅ Encouraging innovation partnerships between universities, research centres, and private industry. ✅ Facilitating trade missions and information exchange to build mutual understanding of standards and procurement pathways. Thank you to VEDP and Hampton Roads Alliance for visiting Whadjuk Noongar Boodja, being fantastic participants, and attending our Gala Dinner. Travel safely back to the US - we look forward to continuing this partnership! ✈️
Thank you all so much for welcoming us to Western Australia, introducing us to your membership, and fostering opportunities for B2B partnerships between WA and VA companies! We are excited for all that lies ahead.
Excellent! David Beaumont, PhD Marilyn Pendlyshok Tina Bove
Great pic of the Hampton Roads Alliance team at our fabulous Optus Stadium and look what popped up on the screen behind them...It's like they knew you were visiting...😁🎉