Shipyard
Great Lakes Towing Company has ordered two Damen-designed harbor tugs from Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland. The vessels, Hulls 11 and 12, will extend the company’s fleet renewal and expansion program, with construction due to start later this year and deliveries set for late 2027 and early 2028.
Joe Starck will retire as CEO of The Great Lakes Towing Company on July 2, 2026, after 35 years with the business. Gregg Thauvette and Tom Rigolo will continue to lead the towing and shipyard divisions, while CFO Ken Kure remains in post.
Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland is hiring a Vessel Manager, New Construction to oversee newbuild contracts and related projects. The role carries responsibility for schedules, budgets, vendor tracking and delivery, with a salary range of $85,000 to $100,000.
Great Lakes Towing Company and Great Lakes Shipyard named their 2024 employee recognition winners on December 27. President Joe Starck presented Brandon Cronlotac with the Office and Operations Employee of the Year Award, while Chris Swenk and Anthony Signorello were named Employee of the Year in towing and shipyard roles.