Austal USA names Director of Commercial Sales

(MOBILE, ALA. – AUGUST 14, 2008) —

Michael Pinkham, Austal USA’s newly-appointed Director of Commercial Sales

To strengthen the commercial focus for Austal USA, Michael Pinkham has joined Austal’s Mobile, Alabama team as the Director of Commercial Sales.  Formerly with Seacoast Electronics as the Vice President Sales & Marketing, Mr. Pinkham brings 32 years of experience from several areas in the shipbuilding and repair industry.  He started his maritime career in the Norfolk Shipbuilding Apprentice Program and has since held various positions in production, estimating, contract administration and project management as well as sales and marketing. 

When asked to comment on the employment of Mr. Pinkham, Austal USA’s Chief Operating Officer, Joe Rella said, “We look forward to Mike’s contribution to our team.  Mike is a well-respected industry professional who brings years of experience to Austal.”  No stranger to the Gulf Coast shipbuilding industry, Mr. Pinkham’s relevant experience includes work at Atlantic Marine and Bender Shipbuilding and Repair both located in Mobile.

Current construction activity at the Mobile yard includes the second of two 353-foot (107-meter) high-speed cargo/passenger ferries for Hawaii Superferry, which is on schedule for launch in the end of September, and the 127-meter Littoral Combat Ship, Independence (LCS2) under construction for the U.S. Navy. Austal’s operation in the US currently employs over 1,000 shipyard workers.

By Professional Mariner Staff