April 26, 2024 — Austal Limited (ASX: ASB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Kruger as the President of Austal USA, confirmed by the Austal USA Board of Directors. Having served as the Interim President since July 2023, Kruger officially assumes her permanent role effective immediately, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong track record in naval engineering and maritime operations.
Leadership Strengthened at Austal USA
Michelle Kruger first joined Austal USA in 2022 as Vice President of Global Services and Support. During her tenure, she has been pivotal in steering the company’s strategic directions, significantly enhancing operational capabilities and fostering robust partnerships in government and commercial sectors. Notable achievements under her leadership include the launch of Austal USA’s new San Diego waterfront facility and the delivery of a 9,000-tonne capacity dry dock, projects that have bolstered the company’s service offerings.
Austal Limited CEO, Paddy Gregg, expressed his confidence in Kruger’s leadership, stating, “Michelle Kruger has quickly demonstrated her exceptional capability to lead the Austal USA team and deliver on multiple shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance projects. Her development of outstanding, positive working relationships with customers, stakeholders, and employees has been warmly welcomed throughout the industry.”
Upon accepting her new role, President Kruger remarked, “I am thrilled and committed to lead Austal USA’s efforts in becoming the premier surface shipbuilder and submarine module manufacturer of choice, in the nation. As a team, we will continue to deliver worldwide service and support capability while steadily advancing technology in support of our nation’s readiness needs.”
Michelle Kruger’s Background and Expertise
Michelle Kruger brings over 25 years of maritime industry experience to her new role as President. A qualified marine engineer, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering from the United States Merchant Marine Academy and a Master’s Degree in Marine Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her extensive experience includes senior positions at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works and General Dynamics NASSCO, as well as significant contributions to the Virginia class submarine program at Electric Boat.
About Austal Limited and Austal USA
Austal is a global leader in shipbuilding, serving as a defence prime contractor and maritime technology partner. Its subsidiary, Austal USA, based in Mobile, Alabama, operates additional service centers in San Diego and Singapore and a technology center in Charlottesville, Virginia. Known for its cutting-edge facilities capable of manufacturing both aluminum and steel ships, Austal USA is currently engaged in several major projects for the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy. The company is celebrated for its commitment to safety and quality, having received numerous safety excellence awards.
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