Press Release
Ketchikan, Alaska, December 21, 2023
Vigor Completes Work on USCGC John McCormick
First non-emergent U.S. Coast Guard award under Vigor’s leadership completed early
Vigor Alaska, a Titan Company, successfully completed a dry dock and repair work solicitation on U.S. Coast Guard Cutter John McCormick this month, returning it to service ahead of schedule. The $3.65 million contract was awarded in November 2023 and represents the first non-emergent maintenance solicitation awarded to the Ketchikan Shipyard since 2011. USCGC McCormick is homeported at Coast Guard Base Ketchikan, only 3.5 miles from the Ketchikan Shipyard. This was also the first time a vessel of USCGC McCormick's class has been serviced at Ketchikan Shipyard, which is operated by Vigor and owned by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA).
"Our successful and on-time delivery of USCGC McCormick represents an important milestone in our tenure as the operator of the Ketchikan Shipyard," said Bergan Wieler, General Manager for Vigor Alaska. "Performing the work here in Ketchikan both keeps the vessel and its crew close to its homeport, and helps support family-wage jobs for skilled workers here in Ketchikan."
More than 150 workers at the Ketchikan Shipyard devoted their expertise to the project over the two months it took to complete. The comprehensive maintenance solicitation included work on the ship's propulsion, a renewal of McCormick's hull coatings, and a comprehensive inspection of many other key systems. The maintenance on USCGC McCormick will ensure the vessel is able to continue patrolling at peak operability, as its crew works to keep the coasts of Alaska safe.
USCGC John McCormick by U.S. Coast Guard
“The investment of AIDEA and Vigor at the Ketchikan Shipyard is a critical part of Ketchikan’s economy,” said Randy Ruaro, Executive Director of AIDEA. “Successful completion of CGC McCormick shows the ability of the shipyard to expand its customer base and provide local jobs. AIDEA looks forward to more opportunities in the future.”
In addition to USCGC McCormick, Vigor continues to conduct critical work for the Alaska Marine Highway System at Ketchikan Shipyard. The Ketchikan Shipyard finished maintenance work on MV Kennicott last month, and work on MV Stikine was completed earlier this year. Vigor Alaska has also begun maintenance on MV Columbia, with work expected to be completed in February 2024.
"We are proud to support the U.S. Coast Guard in keeping their vessels in top condition," said Adam Beck, EVP of Ship Repair for Vigor. "Many people supported keeping this work in Ketchikan and their successful efforts came to fruition. We are grateful to play a role in ensuring strong national defense and a thriving Ketchikan."
About Vigor Marine Group
Vigor Marine Group is a values-driven, established, differentiated, integrated partner with a national footprint in marine maintenance and modernization, marine fabrication, and marine services. With operations in six locations, the family of companies employs 2,500 people in the Pacific Northwest, Virginia, California and Alaska. Our spirit of innovation and legacy of performance make Vigor Marine Group a preferred, full-service prime contractor in the defense and maritime sectors, offering advanced services and complete solutions for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Military Sealift Command, state ferry systems, the cruise industry, the commercial fishing industry, and more. With deep respect for people and the planet, Vigor Marine Group strives to be a positive, regenerative force for good – environmentally, in the lives of its employees and in the community. For more information, visit vigormarine.comOpens in a new tab.
About Titan Acquisition Holdings
A family of bicoastal leaders in ship repair, ship modernization, marine and complex fabrication services, Titan Acquisition Holdings was formed in 2019. Titan is the parent company of Vigor, operating in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska; MHI Holdings, based in Norfolk, Virginia; and Continental Maritime of San Diego (CMSD) in California. Notable Titan family customers include Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, Maritime Administration, U.S. Army, local and state ferry systems, and commercial ship owners.
About AIDEA:
The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority is a public corporation of the State of Alaska. AIDEA’s purpose is to promote, develop, and advance the general prosperity and economic welfare of the people of Alaska.
MEDIA CONTACT
Benton Strong,
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