Port of Wilmington expansion expected to create thousands of jobs

A huge public/private Port of Wilmington deal was sealed this week, meaning extensive expansion of the port and potential future investments in the area of $600 million over the next decade. It also means new jobs by the thousands in Delaware — not just in skilled labor, but in technology, too.

Gulftainer, a private port operator based in the United Arab Emirates, will run the growing port.

While there were no specifics given on the kinds of jobs that will be created, the Port of Wilmington requires technologists, including IT professionals, engineers and analysts. More details are outlined in a statement from state officials.

“The UAE and U.S. have a strong, vibrant investment relationship that delivers meaningful and measurable benefits to businesses, and creates jobs in both countries,” said H.E. Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE’s ambassador to the United States. “Gulftainer’s investment in the Port of Wilmington is a perfect example of this important economic partnership.”

“This historic agreement will result in significant new investment in the Port of Wilmington, which has long been one of Delaware’s most important industrial job centers,” Gov. John Carney said in a statement. “For decades, jobs at the Port have helped stabilize Delaware families and the communities where they live. I was proud to help make our partnership with Gulftainer official today, and I want to thank members of the General Assembly, the Diamond State Port Corporation, Gulftainer, the International Longshoremen’s Association, and all of our partners who have helped make this agreement a reality.”