Posted on February 5, 2024
St. Johns Shipbuilding is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Rella as President of St. Johns Ship Building in Palatka, Florida. In his new role, Joe will lead a highly skilled team of craftsmen and professionals dedicated to the construction and repair of various types of steel and aluminum vessels. He also continues the new construction momentum building a series of Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) designed to support the offshore wind industry.
Mr. Rella, who received his undergraduate degree in Marine Engineering from the US Merchant Marine Academy, in Kings Point, NY and an MBA from Spring Hill College in Mobile, AL, brings over four decades of commercial and US Navy maritime experience to St. Johns Shipbuilding. His impressive career accomplishments and extensive knowledge of the Jones Act and Military spaces make him an invaluable addition to the St. Johns for future growth and expansion into new markets.
Edward Sheets, Executive Vice President of Americraft Marine Group, the parent company of St. Johns Shipbuilding, commented on the appointment, stating, “Joe comes to us with a fantastic list of career accomplishments and an incredible depth of experience in the Jones Act and Military spaces. Joe will direct our diversified portfolio of newbuild projects, including barges, passenger vessels, cargo ships, and wind farm support vessels. His leadership of SJSB will allow us to leverage his industry knowledge and expertise, ensuring the success of our growing new construction program, particularly in the area of high-speed aluminum vessels.”
While St. Johns Shipbuilding has a storied history of excellence in new vessel construction, it also has a proud tradition of vessel repair and maintenance. With a commitment to providing top-notch repair services St. Johns Shipbuilding, utilizing is extensive waterfront and drydocking capabilities, remains dedicated to meeting the highest industry standards in all aspects of its operations.
