DONOR SPOTLIGHT: vigor marine – mhi norfolk
Your name: Brian Holland
Your position: President and General Manager
Company name: Vigor Marine – MHI Norfolk
Website: vigormarine.com/facilities/norfolk
Phone Number: 757-545-6400
Business addresses:
(Main Office) 543 E Indian River Road, Norfolk, VA 23523
(Waterfront) 1215 Warrington Ave, Norfolk, VA 23507
Industry: Ship Repair & Modernization
Describe what the company you work for does and what your position entails:
Vigor Marine – MHI Norfolk is a major marine repair and conversion contractor serving the U.S. Navy, Commercial ship owners, Military Sealift Command and Maritime Administration and operators worldwide. As President and General Manager, I oversee the work of our 300+ employees as well as numerous subcontractors working in our yard on a daily basis. I am supported by an excellent staff of senior leaders and am very proud of the work our employees do daily in support of the US Navy.
What is your personal connection to the Elizabeth River Trail?
Several years ago, my wife and I decided to take up biking as a form of exercise. Since that time, we have biked several of the rails-to-trails throughout the state. It wasn’t until recently that we biked the Elizabeth River Trail. I was immediately impressed with the numerous opportunities the trail provides to be educated about local history, conservation and environmental stewardship. I have also recently taken up walking a portion of the trail adjacent to our shipyard during lunch to get some exercise and de-stress a little from the workday.
Why did you/your organization decide to provide support to the trail?
We decided to support the trail because we believe in the mission and vision of the foundation – a key tenant of which is education. We believe that our support to aid in moving the headquarters into the Chelsea Business District adjacent to the trail will further their efforts to educate the community. Also, the trail supports our business by providing a safe path for our employees, subcontractors and navy personnel to transit between our shipyard and our adjacent parking lots and we wanted to return that support. We are proud to be a part of this community and the foundation of support that strengthens it.
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what benefits do you feel the trail has for the business community?
The Elizabeth River trail is an integral part of what makes Norfolk great. The trail connects the businesses and neighborhoods of West Norfolk to Downtown and beyond. For Vigor Marine – MHI Norfolk, the trail runs adjacent to three of our properties in the Chelsea Business District and provides our employees an opportunity to get a little exercise or travel to work. The trail greatly benefits the business community in Norfolk by giving customers, employees and visitors a safe and convenient way to visit our businesses.
What’s your favorite trail moment?
I would have to say my favorite moment was the tour that I and some of my senior leadership team were given by Kindra and Kaycee. Not only was it educational, I found their enthusiasm for the trail and what they do to be infectious. They truly have a passion for the trail. Second to that would have to be the number of friendly people I have run into as I have walked the trail ranging from a friendly smile or wave as you pass by to a full blown conversation as you walk it together.
Favorite Trailgrazing spot? (i.e. best local food spot steps from the trail)
Our employees enjoy a number of locations right outside our yard such as the Bakehouse at Chelsea and Torch Bistro, but for me it would have to be Orapax. I doubt there is an ounce of Greek blood in my body, but I have a hard time passing up a good gyro.
Best view of the Elizabeth River from the trail?
I think there are a number of great spots to get a view of the Elizabeth River along the trail. Towne Point Park provides a long stretch of the trail where you can walk/ride along the edge of the river. Passing by the Lone Sailor Statue also gives a nice view of the river as well as a view of our naval history as you look upon the USS Wisconsin. While both of these locations provide incredible views, I would have to say that my favorite spot is actually Plum Point Park that is just adjacent to the trail. This location is my favorite for a number of reasons – it is part of my daily walk that I access via the trail, it has a great view of the river, and it gives me a great view back to our shipyard. I believe this park is one of the hidden gems of Norfolk that is only accessible via the trail.
