The AP has reported that the hurricane swamped the shipbuilder's three facilities in Jackson County under 20 feet of water, but a year later the company is again delivering on contracts and has a five-year backlog of work.
The company said Katrina cost the company $45m in damage and it took five months to return to production. But Halter still managed to deliver an ATB unit to Crowley Maritime just 30 days after the original due date.
The company also just launched a research vessel for NOAA and has two more vessels under contract. Halter also is constructing a ferry for Martha's Vineyard, and two barges.
We have a backlog to 2011, the company said.
Crowley rewarded Halter's quick recovery with a contract to build four more tug-and-barge units at a cost of $240 million.
The company said Halter needs to fill a number of positions. They are looking for 20 engineers and needs welders, pipe fitters and general laborers.
Source: AP