ORLANDO, FL — FloridaMakes, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) for the state of Florida, is proud to announce that Chris Albert was elected to its Board of Directors on October 22, 2025, where he will represent the Southeast region of the state.
Albert began his leadership journey as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Marine Corps, leading a small team on high-stakes security operations in Iraq. After his military service, he pursued academic studies in political science and international relations, teaching and conducting research at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the University of Connecticut.
In 2011, he co-founded Metroflex Gym, Long Beach, and later launched the Warrior Soul Podcast, providing guidance and inspiration for veterans. Albert joined Fortress Anchors, a manufacturer of marine anchoring products, in 2020 and rose to General Manager, guiding the company through COVID-19 supply chain challenges, expanding domestic and international sales, and helping earn the South Florida Manufacturers Association (SFMA) Manufacturer of the Year Award in 2024. He currently serves on the SFMA Board of Directors, chairing the Marketing Committee and supporting membership initiatives.
“Chris brings a uniquely diverse perspective to our Board, combining military service, academic expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and executive leadership in manufacturing,” said Kevin Carr, Chief Executive Officer of FloridaMakes. “His track record of navigating complex challenges and building thriving businesses will provide invaluable insight as we work to strengthen Florida’s manufacturing sector.”
“I’m honored to join the FloridaMakes Board and contribute to its mission of advancing manufacturing across the state,” said Albert. “Florida’s manufacturers are key to economic growth and innovation, and I look forward to supporting their success through collaboration, strategic guidance, and practical solutions.”
Albert’s multifaceted background uniquely positions him to help FloridaMakes provide practical guidance and support to the state’s manufacturing community.
About FloridaMakes
FloridaMakes is a public-private partnership dedicated to strengthening and advancing Florida’s manufacturing economy. Its goal is to deliver objective, unbiased advice and technical assistance to help manufacturers grow and become more profitable. The FloridaMakes team of manufacturing experts serves as trusted advisors, helping manufacturers navigate the public and private resources available to support their success. FloridaMakes is the official representative of the MEP National Network and NIST MEP in the state of Florida. For more information, visit FloridaMakes.com.
Media Contact:
Zoraida Velasco
Executive Vice President
(407) 430-7714
zoraida.velasco@floridamakes.com