Ben Bordelon is a name known for excellence in both sports and business. From his early days in Louisiana to playing football for LSU and a brief career in the NFL, Ben Bordelon has achieved remarkable success. Today, he is the President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, one of the largest privately-owned shipbuilding companies in the United States. Beyond his professional achievements, he is admired for his family life with his wife Gemi Bordelon and their three children. In this article, we explore the life, career, legacy, and personal journey of Ben Bordelon in detail.
Quick Bio Table of Ben Bordelon
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Benjamin Gerald Bordelon |
| Birth Year | 1974 |
| Birthplace | Mathews, Louisiana |
| Age | 51 (2025) |
| Education | LSU, Business Degree |
| NFL Career | San Diego Chargers (1997) |
| Current Role | President & CEO, Bollinger Shipyards |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5.83 million |
| Wife | Gemi Bordelon |
| Children | Brooke, Bo, Brett Bordelon |
| Family Legacy | Grandfather Donald G. Bollinger founded Bollinger Shipyards |
| Key Achievements | LSU football, NFL, CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, Safety Awards |
| Location | Louisiana, USA |
Early Life and Louisiana Roots
Ben Bordelon was born in 1974 in Mathews, Louisiana, into a family with a strong shipbuilding legacy. His grandfather, Donald G. Bollinger, founded Bollinger Shipyards in 1946. Growing up in a household with deep roots in the industry, Ben Bordelon learned early lessons about responsibility, discipline, and leadership. His parents encouraged education and sports, helping him balance academics and athletics. He has several siblings who also played a role in family business support and community life.
Growing up in Louisiana, Ben Bordelon was shaped by the local culture, values, and community spirit. These early influences stayed with him throughout his football and business career. His connection to Louisiana also guided his later work with LSU and various local initiatives.
Education and LSU Football Career
Ben Bordelon attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where he studied business and developed his athletic talent. At LSU, he played as an offensive lineman, earning recognition for his strength, strategy, and teamwork. His football career at LSU included numerous memorable games and moments where he demonstrated leadership and resilience.
Ben Bordelon LSU football days were not just about sports. They taught him discipline, perseverance, and public representation skills. He became known for his ability to work as a team and stay focused under pressure. These lessons would later serve him well in his corporate leadership at Bollinger Shipyards.
Professional Football Career: NFL Highlights
After college, Ben Bordelon entered the NFL, joining the San Diego Chargers in 1997. Though his NFL career was brief, it showcased his talent at a national level. Playing as an offensive lineman required him to master strategy, strength, and coordination.
During his time in the NFL, Ben Bordelon trained with some of the best athletes in the country. He developed resilience and adaptability, which later influenced his decision-making as a business leader. His professional football career also gave him visibility, respect, and networking opportunities, bridging his transition from sports to corporate leadership.
Returning to Louisiana and Joining Bollinger Shipyards
After retiring from the NFL, Ben Bordelon returned to Louisiana to join the family business, Bollinger Shipyards. Starting as a project manager, he quickly demonstrated his skill in operations and management. He held positions like Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, gaining hands-on experience in shipbuilding, client management, and corporate strategy.
His leadership skills and understanding of both technical and business aspects led to his appointment as President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards. Today, Ben Bordelon Bollinger Shipyards CEO is recognized for steering the company toward innovation, efficiency, and excellence while preserving its family-owned values.
Leadership and Corporate Vision
As CEO, Ben Bordelon has transformed Bollinger Shipyards into a modern, award-winning shipbuilding company. Under his leadership, the company has constructed vessels for the U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, and commercial clients. Safety, quality, and innovation are central to his leadership philosophy.
Ben Bordelon believes in hands-on management, mentoring teams, and fostering a culture of accountability. He has overseen major expansions, modernization projects, and acquisitions, ensuring the company stays competitive. His leadership style reflects lessons learned from LSU football and the NFL, where strategy, teamwork, and quick decision-making are critical.
Major Projects and Achievements at Bollinger
Under Ben Bordelon, Bollinger Shipyards has completed multiple high-profile projects, including patrol boats, rescue vessels, and specialized commercial ships. The company has won more than 20 consecutive safety awards, highlighting Ben Bordelon’s emphasis on workplace safety and operational excellence.
The CEO also prioritizes innovation, integrating new technology into shipbuilding processes. He ensures Bollinger Shipyards meets both commercial and government contracts with precision, making it a trusted name in the industry. His strategic vision strengthens the company’s reputation and market reach.
Net Worth and Financial Growth
Ben Bordelon net worth is estimated at $5.83 million in 2025, reflecting decades of work in sports and business. His wealth has grown consistently since Ben Bordelon net worth 2019, due to company growth, investments, and successful leadership.
Beyond personal wealth, Ben Bordelon uses his financial influence to support community initiatives in Louisiana. He invests in projects that improve education, sports programs, and local businesses, reflecting a commitment to giving back to his roots.
Family Life: Wife Gemi Bordelon
Ben Bordelon wife, Gemi Bordelon, is a well-known figure in Louisiana. She gained viral attention during LSU championship events and has been admired for her charm, support, and engagement with the community. The couple shares three children: Brooke, Bo, and Brett Bordelon.
Ben Bordelon daughter, Brooke, is active in community and educational activities. His sons, Bo and Brett Bordelon, are connected to sports and academics, with Bo maintaining LSU ties. Family life is central to Ben Bordelon, and he often credits Gemi for her role in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
Public Presence and Viral Moments
Gemi and Ben Bordelon have been featured in media for their strong LSU connections. During LSU championship celebrations, Gemi’s viral dance videos showcased the family’s fun, supportive side. These moments humanized Ben Bordelon, showing that he values family, tradition, and local culture.
In addition, interviews with Ben Bordelon reveal his commitment to excellence, safety, and mentorship in shipbuilding. His ability to stay approachable while managing a major company makes him a respected public figure.
Children and Education
Ben Bordelon kids reflect his family values and legacy. Brooke Bordelon focuses on education and community work, while Bo and Brett Bordelon are involved in sports and academics. Ben Bordelon encourages his children to follow their passions while learning discipline and responsibility. He sees family education as equally important as professional success.
This approach ensures the Bordelon family legacy continues, combining education, sports, and leadership values passed down from Ben Bordelon and his ancestors.
Community Influence and LSU Connection
Ben Bordelon LSU wife Gemi and Ben himself maintain strong connections to LSU. Ben Bordelon attends alumni events, supports football programs, and contributes to local scholarships. His work in Louisiana extends to charity, community service, and mentoring young professionals.
His influence in Louisiana showcases how a successful CEO can blend business growth with social responsibility. Community engagement is central to his identity, reflecting lessons from his upbringing and family values.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Ben Bordelon Bollinger Shipyards CEO combines discipline, strategic thinking, and hands-on leadership. He encourages teamwork, fosters innovation, and ensures safety in all operations. His leadership philosophy mirrors his sports background, emphasizing focus, collaboration, and resilience.
By mentoring executives and employees, Ben Bordelon cultivates a company culture that values growth, accountability, and community service. His approach has strengthened Bollinger Shipyards’ reputation and ensured long-term stability.
Interesting Facts and Public Recognition
- Ben Bordelon played offensive tackle and guard at LSU, earning second-team All-SEC honors.
- He was drafted into the NFL by San Diego Chargers in 1997.
- Gemi Bordelon went viral during LSU celebrations, highlighting their family support for sports.
- Bollinger Shipyards under Ben Bordelon has won 20+ consecutive safety awards.
- Ben Bordelon maintains a private, respected presence in Louisiana, balancing business, sports, and family life.
Summary of Key Facts
- Full Name: Benjamin Gerald Bordelon
- Birth Year: 1974
- Birthplace: Mathews, Louisiana
- Education: LSU, Business Degree
- NFL: San Diego Chargers (1997)
- Current Role: President & CEO, Bollinger Shipyards
- Wife: Gemi Bordelon
- Children: Brooke, Bo, Brett
- Net Worth 2025: $5.83 million
- Family Legacy: Grandfather Donald G. Bollinger founded Bollinger Shipyards
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is Ben Bordelon?
A: Ben Bordelon is the CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, former LSU football player, and ex-NFL athlete.
Q2: What is Ben Bordelon’s net worth?
A: Ben Bordelon net worth is estimated at $5.83 million in 2025, reflecting his business and sports success.
Q3: Who is Ben Bordelon’s wife?
A: His wife is Gemi Bordelon, known for her LSU support and family appearances with Ben.
Q4: Did Ben Bordelon play in the NFL?
A: Yes, he played as an offensive lineman for the San Diego Chargers in 1997.
Q5: What is Ben Bordelon’s connection to LSU?
A: He played LSU football, studied business there, and remains active in alumni and community programs.
Conclusion: Legacy of Ben Bordelon
Ben Bordelon is a rare example of success in multiple fields. From LSU football to the NFL, and now leading Bollinger Shipyards, he demonstrates discipline, leadership, and innovation. Alongside Gemi Bordelon and their children, he balances family values with professional excellence.
Through his work, Ben Bordelon has preserved a family legacy, contributed to the Louisiana community, and inspired future generations. His story proves that determination, smart leadership, and strong family support can create lasting influence and success. Ben Bordelon remains a figure to watch in business, sports, and community leadership, embodying the principles of dedication, strategy, and legacy.
