Company History

Dave Sessums and George Lorton

Founded by Robert DelValle in 1973, International Ship Repair was purchased by George and Carl Lorton in 1990. The Lorton brothers sparked dramatic growth by adding drydock capabilities. In 1997, International Ship Repair expanded its comprehensive repair services to include conversion capabilities for the lengthening and re-powering of ships.

In 1998, C.E.O. & President George Lorton gained sole ownership of the shipyard, and concurrently added the company’s fourth drydock. In 2002, a fifth drydock was added (the largest floating drydock in Florida), affording International Ship Repair the largest number of operational drydocks in Florida.

Management Leadership

The people that make up the leadership team at ISR consistently deliver personal, hands-on attention to owners and their representatives when a ship is being repaired. Their experience speaks for itself. In addition to founding two marine companies, owner George Lorton has held every job in the industry – from ship fitter to president. Executive Vice President Jim Braukman brings a 35-year history of shipyard expertise – incorporating and understanding the perspectives of both owners and shipyards. Vice President of Estimating and Contracts Dave Sessums brings his rich and varied experience to the critical business of ship repair. Vice President/General Manager Paul Duffy has vast experience in the marine industry and is a licensed marine engineer, has been a surveyor for the American Bureau of Shipping(ABS), and is a graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy. At ISR, maintaining the highest level of quality while doing business in the most honest, forthright manner is an integral part of the company’s business philosophy.