Metal Shark moves beyond family biz

With a focus on engineering and a large in-house design team of naval architects and marine engineers, Metal Shark - a south-central Louisiana-based shipbuilder - offers a full portfolio of its own designs and the ability to customize each one to meet a wide range of needs. The Jeanerette, La., shipbuilder doesn’t shy from tackling diverse projects. It’s that philosophy that has fueled Metal Shark’s rise to becoming a major industry player. It was launched as a family operation more than three decades ago. In 2003, MS was approached to produce aluminum patrol boats and work boats for military and law enforcement customers. It followed up with the 2014 opening of a shipyard in Franklin, La., with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. It aided the firm’s expansion into building passenger vessels and large ships up to 250 feet long. “Because of our engineering-centric capabilities, we’re not afraid to tackle any job that comes our way,” says Greg Lambrecht, Metal Shark executive VP. Tackling intricate builds with demanding timelines requires the right personnel and equipment. MS recently invested in five Dynasty 400 TIG welders from Miller Electric Mfg. The machines allow the company to weld thicker materials without preheating, which saves time and improves productivity, while maintaining quality requirements. (Source: Marine Link 04/27/18)