Gene Miller, interim president of Austal USA since February, has been named president of the company.
His selection comes after the planned retirement of former President Michelle Kruger.
“Gene’s selection reflects our confidence in the leadership team we have built and the direction Austal is moving toward,” said Austal USA Chairman of the Board of Managers Chris Chadwick. “Since stepping into the interim role in February, he has demonstrated the qualities we have been looking for: operational discipline, a commitment to the workforce and the ability to deliver results. He has the relationships and strategic clarity to carry Austal USA’s momentum forward at a critical moment for our industry and for national defense. We are in a strong position for what comes next, and Gene is the right leader to take us there.”
Miller has more than three decades’ experience in naval architecture and shipbuilding, including at Ingalls Shipbuilding and General Dynamics Bath Iron Works. He joined Austal as chief operating officer in 2024.
Miller will lead a team of more than 3,500 across Austal USA’s operations in Mobile, Washington, San Diego and various locations in Virginia.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and energized by what this team has built together,” Miller said. “Austal USA’s greatest strength is its workforce, and everything we do as a leadership team is in service to the men and women who show up every day to build ships that defend this nation. I am committed to growing this company, investing in our people and delivering on the promise of what Austal USA is capable of.”
