Project Management Support for Construction of US Navy YT Class Tugs

Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) is a premiere shipbuilding and repair company located in Anacortes, WA. In 2017 DCI was awarded a contract by the US Navy to build six (6) Azimuthing Stern Drive (ASD) Ship Assist Tugs. In early 2020, DCI recognized the need to improve their project management systems. They engaged a veteran ship construction project manager in Jim Gow for his guidance in designing improvements that would ensure contract compliance while increasing organizational performance.

Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) is a premiere shipbuilding and repair company located in Anacortes, WA. In 2017 DCI was awarded a contract by the US Navy to build six (6) Azimuthing Stern Drive (ASD) Ship Assist Tugs. In early 2020, DCI recognized the need to improve their project management systems. They engaged a veteran ship construction project manager in Jim Gow for his guidance in designing improvements that would ensure contract compliance while increasing organizational performance.

Mr. Gow initially performed a detailed review and analysis of the project performance and published his findings to the company leadership. Following this analysis, he transitioned into a guidance and mentoring role focused on assisting the client with the following services:

• Ongoing management of build schedules, cost projections, and staffing demands
• Problem solving on technical issues, seeking the best value solutions for the shipyard while maintaining strict compliance with the contract
• Staff development and mentoring
• Ensuring compliance with complex contract requirements
• Customer management, ensuring clear communications with the US Navy
• Testing and trials management, including oversight of acceptance trials with the Navy Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) and resolution of discrepancies

As a result of the services outlined above, the client now has improved cost tracking and visibility, cost controls, schedule controls, and provides improved and more reliable information to its clients and stakeholders. The first-of-class vessel has been delivered and placed into service while delivery projections for the subsequent vessels have been improved and solidified. Mr. Gow continues to work with DCI to support their success in this program.