Facility strengthens regional shipyard workforce development and local industry partnerships

NORFOLK, Va. (Nov. 3, 2025) — Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., celebrated the opening of its new Trades Training Building last week, marking a major investment in workforce development and regional industry innovation. The project is part of Colonna’s ongoing commitment to reinvest in its facilities and people, following more than $150 million in infrastructure and workforce investments since 2016.

The new 9,000-square-foot facility, located on the company’s Norfolk campus, will serve as a dedicated space for hands-on training, safety instruction, and skill development for current employees and future apprentices.

“This new trades building isn’t just a structure — it’s a statement,” said Randall Crutchfield, Chairman and CEO of Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. “It’s a visible investment in the skilled men and women who power our shipyard, our community, and our nation’s industrial base. Each beam, door, and crane represent a promise — that American craftsmanship and maritime strength will continue to thrive right here at home.”

The state-of-the-art facility includes an aircraft hangar–style door, a 10-ton bridge crane, dual jib cranes, reinforced concrete flooring, and industrial ventilation and safety systems. It also integrates fiber optic connectivity and high-voltage power systems to support modern ship repair and fabrication training needs.

Local and national leaders joined Colonna’s leadership, employees, and apprentices for the Oct. 31 ribbon-cutting ceremony, underscoring the shipyard’s continued role in supporting regional economic growth and maritime readiness.

“Colonna’s Shipyard is instrumental to Hampton Roads’ ship repair industry, and I appreciate the many skilled trade workers here who play a vital role in our local maritime industrial base.” U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans (R–Va.)

About Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc.

Founded in 1875, Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. (CSI) is the oldest continuously operating private shipyard in the United States. CSI specializes in ship repair, conversion, and fabrication services for commercial and government clients. With a reputation for innovation and excellence, CSI remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry, committed to the highest standards of safety, quality, and performance. The company’s continued investment in its facilities, workforce, and community ensures its ability to meet the evolving needs of the global maritime sector. www.colonnaship.com

Recent Colonna’s Shipyard Investments – A Commitment to Growth & Innovation:

• 2016: $50M invested in real estate acquisition/development, marine infrastructure improvements, and installation of a dry dock to support commercial and government ship repair.
• 2019: $17M invested to enhance capabilities in modular fabrication and heavy-duty machining.
• 2023: $13M invested to expand modular fabrication capabilities in Owensboro, KY and Norfolk, VA.
• 2025: $70M invested in marine infrastructure development to increase drydock capacity in support of commercial and government ship repair.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Maritime industry leaders, civic and government representatives, and guests joined Colonna’s Shipyard employees and apprentices during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the company’s new Trades Training Building in Norfolk, Va., on Oct. 31, 2025. The facility expands training and workforce development opportunities for the maritime and industrial trades in Hampton Roads. (CSI courtesy photo)

Left to right:

• Reanna Gallegos, Production Manager – CSI, Waterfront Operations
• U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans (R–Va.)
• Kevin Callis, CSI, Outside Machine Shop Foreman
• Kenny Caudle, CSI Pipe Shop Foreman
• U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D–Va.)
• Jordan Webb, CSI President