Colonna’s most valuable asset is its employees.
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., located in the historic Berkley section of Norfolk, Virginia, is the oldest continuously family-owned and operated private shipyard in the United States. Established in 1875 by 26-year-old ship carpenter Charles J. Colonna, the company began with modest resources, focusing on pier-side repairs. Within two years, Charles introduced the shipyard’s first marine railway, powered by two horses and capable of lifting 40 tons, setting the stage for a legacy of innovation and growth.
As Colonna’s Shipyard celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025, it continues to honor its commitment to modernization by investing in cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure to enhance efficiency and productivity. Today, the company has evolved into a diverse industrial leader with expertise in commercial and government ship repair, machining, and large-scale steel fabrication. At the heart of Colonna’s success is its exceptional workforce. From skilled welders and shipfitters to expert government contract specialists, our employees are the backbone of the organization, ensuring every project is completed to the highest standards. We are proud of their dedication and excellence, which drive the shipyard forward into the future.
Many years of experience have taught us that success is rooted in our commitment to and respect for our employees, our customers, and our many business partners. Those commitments are on full display in our mission and vision statements, values, and pillars of success.
Our Mission
Rooted in ship repair, Colonna’s will be the trusted project management partner for maritime and heavy industrial applications on the East Coast and beyond. We will bring skilled craftspeople and project management expertise to bear on uniquely complex projects, both on and off the water.
Our Vision
Customer-focused, employee-driven execution of maritime and industrial maintenance, repair, and construction.
Our Values
FAMILY: We build people up through an unwavering commitment to authenticity and personal accountability.
RESPECT: Respect for the individual is paramount – it is earned through a continual focus on the betterment of our company and community.
PRIDE: We own our work. Constant pursuit of mastery is a requirement because outcomes matter to our community, our customer, and our country.
TRUTH: We deal in facts and information. We build ownership through integrity, which is the cornerstone of all our relationships.
Pillars of Success: The Colonna’s Way
The founder of this company held that honesty, hard work, and fair dealing were the cornerstones to success. With nearly 150 years of success built on that foundation, we know that:
- Safety is everyone’s job – all the time.
- Work happens on the job site.
- Everyone is on the same team.
- We tell the truth – all the time.
- We manage the company’s finances as if they were our own personal finances
- Customers are why we exist.
- We are all accountable.