THOMASVILLE- Quality Maritime Surveyors (QMS), a leading figure in the maritime defense industry in Australia, proudly announces the inauguration of its new U.S. head office in Thomasville. Owned by Shaun and Crystal Kennedy, residents of the Mitchell House in Thomasville, this expansion signifies a pivotal moment for the company, solidifying its dedication to excellence and strategic partnerships in defense maritime inspection, non-destructive testing (NDT), and quality assurance.
The company’s vision extends to establishing workshop facilities in Newport News, Virginia, highlighting its commitment to fostering international collaboration. This move is poised to bolster job creation, strengthen the AUKUS alliance, and support the construction and maintenance of advanced nuclear Virginia-class submarines for the defense forces of the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.
With over a decade of expertise in NDT, inspection, and maritime surveying services, QMS, led by Shaun Kennedy, brings a wealth of experience in submarine and defense vessel specialization. Kennedy’s extensive background spanning 32 years in submarine and warship construction further enhances QMS’s reputation for excellence.
When questioned about choosing Thomasville for the head office despite the industrial facility being in Virginia Newport News, Kennedy stated, “Thomasville holds a special place in Crystal’s and my heart. It’s been our home for the past eight years. For us, it’s not just a location; it’s a vibrant, diverse community that we cherish.”
This expansion is poised to create numerous employment opportunities in both the United States and Australia. Committed to hiring locally, QMS aims to bridge the skills gap in Australia while offering specialized training programs and fostering talent development.
Shaun Kennedy, alongside his wife Crystal Kennedy, expressed their excitement about the expansion, stating, “We are thrilled to extend our presence to Thomasville, Georgia, and Newport News, Virginia. Our mission aligns perfectly with the goals of the AUKUS alliance, and we look forward to contributing to the economic growth and security of both nations.”
As Quality Maritime Surveyors embarks on this significant expansion, it remains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge services to the global maritime industry while positively impacting job markets in the United States and Australia. The company eagerly anticipates forging new partnerships, supporting critical projects of the AUKUS alliance, and fostering prosperity in the communities it serves.