Bollinger repeats with Lantern win

Louisiana Economic Development officials named Bollinger Shipyards LLC as one of eight recipients of the 2011 Lantern Award last Tuesday during a reception at the governor’s mansion in Baton Rouge.

Lantern Award winners are selected by Regional Planning and Development Districts in Louisiana and are graded on business contributions to the communities they call home, employment and facility expansion. Each winner must demonstrate sustainability by having been in operation for three years prior to being nominated.

‘I want to commend the Lantern Award recipients for their achievements and contributions, which are helping Louisiana’s economy outperform the South and the U.S. on a regular basis, LED Secretary Stephen Moret said. ‘As we continue to reposition Louisiana as one of the best states for business investment, supporting the growth of our existing business will remain our top priority.

‘The Lantern Award is somewhat indicative of a job well done a true success story, Bollinger CEO Donald T. ‘Boysie Bollinger said. ‘Bollinger Shipyards is extremely pleased to be recognized for a second time with the Lantern Award. It shows that hard work, dedication to our workforce, a safe work environment and service to our customers continues to pay dividends for the region. Bollinger Shipyards is just as focused on those ideals today as we were when we last received the Lantern Award, just substantially bigger and better.

Bollinger Shipyards was founded in 1946, but it has been during the past 40 years that the Lockport-based shipbuilder and maintenance leader has grown to employ more than 2,000 full-time workers, led the industry in advancements with technology, enhanced safety and environmental concerns and boosted annual sales to nearly $500 million.

Other Lantern Award winners include Maritime International of Broussard, Triton Industries L.L.C. of Lottie, Six C Fabrication Inc. of Winnfield, ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston in Delhi, Southland Printing Co. Inc. of Shreveport, St. Joe Brickworks in Pearl River, and Max Brake Controllers of Creole.

LED began presenting the Lantern Awards in 1979 and has recognized more than 260 Louisiana manufacturers during the past 32 years.

Program partners include the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association and the Louisiana Quality Foundation.