RMK’s Miami yard adds electronics division

RMK Merrill-Stevens has announced plans to add an electronic systems division at its Miami shipyard, and has hired electronic systems integrator David Gratton to oversee the new division.

Gratton comes to RMK Merrill-Stevens with a long track record in the electronics industry, beginning in 1980 as a member of the U.S. Air Force, according to the company. He has worked on environmental testing of NASA components for Teledyne Systems Co., served on the National Marine Electronics Association board for 11 years, and served as board chairman of the NMEA from 2011 to 2013. He has an FCC General Radio Operators License (GROL) with radar endorsement, and is now studying for project management professional certification.

“With David’s experience and knowledge in engineering and electronics, RMK Merrill-Stevens can now offer something that is unique to our shipyard,” stated RMK Merrill-Stevens CEO Aaron Leatherwood in a company press release.

Partners in the shipyard’s new electronic systems division are to include Savant, Böning USA, e3 Systems, Kymeta Corp., Volvo Penta, Nautic Alert, Future Automation and James Loudspeaker, according to the company.

The new division is part of a shipyard renovation expected to be completed later this year. New equipment will include a 2,700-ton shiplift and “Old Glory,” a 100-ton travel lift now in operation for yachts under 100 feet.

For more information, visit rmkmerrill-stevens.com.