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can ramp up to 200 if needed). If we need more, it’s just a phone call.”

Laker noted that the company is focused more today on garnering tra- ditional marine work, and the com- pany recently saw that strategy come to fruition when it was awarded an $8.9m contract to build a 200 x 50 ft. crane barge for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis area, a con- tract the company worked hard to secure. “We priced this one very care- fully,” Plotkin said. This contract is currently in the final design phase, and once it begins construction, will be delivered within 365 days. “We’re currently bidding on a num- ber of interesting marine projects, the details of which I can’t share with you at this time,” Plotkin said.

Steelways, like many other similarly sized marine construction firms, faces its fair share of challenges in running an efficient, profitable operation.

Laker, however, contends that the biggest challenge is simply getting the ‘Steelways’ name out and recognized in the marine market. “We are a high- ly skilled, 40 plus year old company and sometime I find the biggest chal- lenge is simply letting people know that we are here. Once they see our history and logistical advantages of our location, though, they are usually hooked,” said Laker. MN

OUR VESSELS FEATURE: • The lowest operating cost in the industry • The best performance, handling and safety

Our boats are built by people who have actually oper- ated towboats for years. We use new technology that reduces fuel usage and allows owners to stay prof- itable even in the worst of times.

Argosy Boat Company, LLC • 100 Michael Road • Pierre Part, LA 70339

Phone: (636) 236-8872 • Fax: (636) 634-3466 www.marinelink.com MN 37