The Point Clear Rotary Club welcomed Dr. Michael Capella, Dean of the Mitchell College of Business at the University of South Alabama, for a dynamic update on the university’s momentum and the rapid economic growth across the Mobile–Baldwin region.
Dr. Capella began by sharing one of the university’s top strategic priorities — achieving R1 research status, the highest classification granted by the Carnegie Foundation. South Alabama is currently designated R2, and to move up, the university must continue exceeding $50 million in annual research spending (a benchmark it already meets) and graduate at least 70 Ph.D. students per year. “We’re in the mid-60s now,” he said, “and the Mitchell College of Business is helping drive us toward that goal.”
Regional Growth and Opportunity
From aerospace to aquatics, Dr. Capella painted a vivid picture of a region on the rise. Mobile and Baldwin Counties are seeing unprecedented development across industries:
Airbus Expansion – With the addition of a third assembly line, Mobile will soon become the fourth-largest aircraft manufacturing hub in the world. Airbus is also relocating its research facility to the USA Research and Technology Park, connecting the university directly to cutting-edge industry and creating opportunities for collaboration in engineering, finance, HR, and supply chain management.
Port and Logistics Growth – The Port of Mobile is now the deepest shipping channel in the Gulf of Mexico at 50 feet, allowing the largest Panama-class ships to dock. Alongside APM Terminals and new warehousing projects like the South Alabama Logistics Park and developments in Loxley, this growth fuels demand for skilled logistics professionals — a perfect match for USA’s fastest-growing major, Supply Chain Management.
Tourism and Revitalization – Passenger rail service to New Orleans has returned for the first time since Hurricane Katrina, Carnival cruise service from Mobile is now year-round, and new attractions like the Hall of Fame Courtyard and the forthcoming downtown arena are boosting tourism and entertainment. Mobile will even welcome professional hockey back to the city when the arena opens in spring 2027, providing space for concerts, Mardi Gras balls, and large events.
Infrastructure and Industry – Dr. Capella highlighted major manufacturing and construction projects such as the $4 billion Novelis aluminum plant in Bay Minette, the Southern Pine sawmill, Austal’s shipbuilding and submarine expansion, and the highly anticipated Mobile River Bridge project — all indicators of long-term regional strength.
Healthcare and Education – The University of South Alabama’s new College of Medicine, a $200+ million investment, will expand the pipeline of physicians serving the Gulf Coast region. Spring Hill College is also growing its nursing program to meet workforce needs.
Preparing Students for the Future
Dr. Capella emphasized that as industry changes, so must education. The Mitchell College of Business is equipping students for the next generation of work through programs like:
- Innovation and Technology, a new course introducing students to artificial intelligence and its impact on business.
- Entrepreneurship, encouraging students to launch their own ventures through pitch competitions and seed funding.
- Financial Literacy, a core requirement ensuring every student understands credit, debt, and long-term financial health.
He also shared news of the Executive MBA program launching this fall at USA’s Fairhope campus — a hybrid Friday/Saturday format designed for working professionals seeking leadership advancement close to home.
A Bright Outlook
Dr. Capella’s presentation underscored a simple truth: South Alabama and the surrounding region are not just growing — they’re transforming. From infrastructure and research to tourism and education, these projects are shaping a stronger, more connected Gulf Coast economy.
As Dr. Capella concluded, “Our job at the Mitchell College of Business is to make sure our students are prepared — not just for the jobs of today, but for the jobs of tomorrow.”
The Point Clear Rotary Club thanks Dr. Capella for sharing such an insightful look at the exciting developments taking place right here in our backyard.
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