Kirby Inland Marine RSS Feed

Is The Sky Falling?

Gene Moore — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Does it seem every time we turn on the news it comes across as the SKY IS FALLING?

The Stock Market is horrible, there is bailout for Wall Street, there is a bailout for the largest auto dealers in the country, the Japanese market crashes and announces a recession. ETC.

While all of these things highlight the news our own political leaders can’t seem to agree on anything. You and I all know that this means unemployment is on the rise and is subject to reach levels that we have not seen since the 1980’s.

I’m sure you have convinced yourself that as depressing as it is nationally, sooner or later it has to hit home. With respect to the national market it will definitely have an affect on our industry and also with our day-to-day business.

In this climate, advisors with good common sense cannot give sound financial advice. However, I believe that if you’re employed by Kirby Corporation, you work for a very strong and well-managed company. The executives and leaders of our organization understand what it takes for us to succeed and continue to grow in difficult times. You should rest easy at night knowing that Kirby has never laid off any vessel employment in the history of its tenure. The entire corporation understands that good people make up our organization and we all need to lean on each other to make it through tough economic times. Yes, of course it means cutbacks, and the frivolous spending that we all have enjoyed over the past 4-5 years will need to be closely evaluated. Believe it or not, whether you manage a department, a vessel, or even have a manager’s title there is something that everyone in our company can do to help financially impact the bottom line.

A simple example might be keeping yourself safe as we watch out for friends and coworkers in an effort to keep each other from getting injured. Serious dollars build up every year from preventable injuries. You might buy one less can of green beans for the month, one less coil of unused line, or one unnecessary tank of gas in your company provided vehicle. Certainly there are larger areas of unnecessary spending that are being looked at in order to keep profits up and shareholders interested, but the point is we can all contribute with a little effort. In fact, it’s a necessity.

I have said all of this to really say that we are employed by the largest tank barge organization in the industry. I might add that our Corporation has quite a bit of history with deep respect from some of the richest oil companies in the world. Although it might appear that the SKY IS FALLING every time you turn on the news, I will tell you this. When I say my prayers with my kids each night, I always mention how thankful I am to have a good job and work for company called Kirby Corporation.

2-Dec-09 8:00 AM

Operation Big Tow

Mike Halliburton — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

As many of you are aware, another operator had a major oil spill in New Orleans during July of this year. The unfortunate result for our industry is that the wheelman who was piloting the vessel did not hold a valid license.

In the wake of this spill the United States Coast Guard has developed a new program dubbed “Operation Big Tow”. This program is intended to check the mariner’s license to validate that the mariner operating the vessel does indeed hold a current valid license with all their endorsements.

The first boardings conducted in the New Orleans District was reported to have found several licensing violations aboard the vessels visited ranging from expired licenses to improper endorsements. The Coast Guard in addition to the boardings will utilize phone calls to vessels directly or through Vessel Traffic Controllers (VTS) who will call with questions concerning the mariners’ licenses.

Inspectors stopped vessels with problems and in some cases forced companies to replace crews. Violators could face sanctions ranging from fines to license suspensions or revocation.

In light of this inspection process it is important that your license is correct and up to date fully complying with all laws and regulations. Kirby is working closely with the Coast Guard and the American Waterways Operators (AWO) in support of this concept.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your port captain.

19-Jan-09 8:00 AM

Salus Primus

Dave Rices — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Kirby’s history has shown that there are special safety challenges for those working through the holidays. The distractions are many for the days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although there are distractions that take focus away from everyday work activities, our work must go on and it must happen event free.Some time back in reviewing safety training material from one of our customers, I ran across their seven causes of why accidents happen. In looking at their list of accident causes, I see some of the same things that are generally at the root of our accidents. These causes are even more heightened during the holiday season when our focus can be on other things and not our task at hand.

Seven Causes:

Taking Shortcuts
Ignoring Safety Procedures
Being Over Confident
Starting a Task with Incomplete Instructions
Poor Housekeeping
Mental Distractions from Work
Failure to Pre-Plan the Work

Consider the above and how they impact the day to day choices you make at work. Staying focused on safety through these next few weeks will give us the end of the year we strive to achieve. Remember the simple formula: See the risk + Eliminate the Risk = Less Events.

8-Jan-09 10:00 AM

2009 Calendar Contest Winners

Lisa Nally — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:00:00 GMT

The 2009 Calendar Contest concluded with 16 pictures chosen, taken by 13 different photographers. The contest was open on September 1 and closed on October 1st, with 140 photos being submitted. This year the parameters included a preference for digital photos, no camera phones, and they had to be specifically related to the industry.

This year's winners are:

Frank Ellis, Captain, M/V Jimmy Sauls
Ken Penn, Captain, M/V Concho
Rickie LeBlanc, Relief Captain, M/V Sun
Ken Brands, Pilot, M/V Buckskin
James Smith, Tankerman, M/V Salado
Bill Hearne, Tankerman, M/V Ann Brent
Mickey Belgrod, Steersman, M/V Cameron Blair
Zachary McGavitt, Pilot, M/V Creole Dee
Josh Owens, Relief Captain, M/V J.E. O'Donnell
James Bates, Tankerman, M/V Creole Dee
Pat Burns, Pilot, M/V Henry J. Souledier
Mickey Hand, Pilot, M/V Cindy Brent

Thank you to everyone who submitted a picture. The pictures will be used in other publications and all are available for viewing online at http://www.kirbycorpjobs.com/en/photos/albums/v/35. We look forward to next year’s entries, so begin taking pictures now! Send them in any time during the year from your Zimbra/Kirby Crew account, but make the subject "Kirby Calendar Contest."

Calendars are available for purchase. Proceeds go to the Kirby Hardship Relief Fund. Please send $5.00 to: Lisa Nally, 18350 Market St., Channelview, TX 77530. Make checks payable to the Kirby Hardship Relief Fund.

8-Jan-09 10:00 AM

Retirement Benefits

Kenny Shaver — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Retirement Statements were recently mailed to Kirby Pension Plan participants’ homes. These statements provide an estimate of your normal retirement benefit at age 65 from the Kirby Pension Plan, the Kirby 401(k) Plan and the Social Security Administration. For the calculation of projected employment service and income, we assume that you will continue to work a regular schedule each year and receive pay increases until age 65.

The projected Kirby Pension Plan benefit is based on the lifetime annuity payment option. You will choose your actual method of payment when you retire. An accrued pension benefit, also payable at age 65, is displayed in order to provide you the amount of your benefit at age 65, if you had left the Company on December 31, 2007.

Regarding the Kirby 401(k) Plan, we assume you will contribute either 3% or 6% of base pay and receive the matching 3% contribution from the Company through age 65. If you have a balance in the Plan, we included that in the projected benefit as well.

We also estimated your Social Security retirement benefit at age 65.

Please review your statement and should you have any questions contact Avery Smith (River Division (800)569-2925) or Ken Shaver (Canal Division (800)324-3621).

2-Jan-09 8:00 AM

Christening the M/V Jeff Montgomery

Lisa Nally — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The M/V Jeff Montgomery was christened on November 17, 2008, in Channelview, TX. This is the fourth of 12 boats to be delivered from Raymond & Associates, Bayou LaBatre, AL, and it is identical to the previous boats. The M/V City of Galveston is due for delivery in the beginning of 2009.

Jeff Montgomery served as Chairman of the Board of Kirby Corporation from 1976 until 1982 and served as Chairman of the Board of Kirby’s predecessor company, Kirby Industries, Inc., from 1973 to 1976 and President from its original formation in 1956 until 1973. From 1956 until 1988, Kirby primarily operated as a Houston based oil and gas exploration and production company. In March 1969, under the leadership of Jeff Montgomery, Kirby purchased Dixie Carriers, Inc. consisting of 53 tank barges with a capacity of 984,000 barrels, 13 dry cargo barges and 26 towboats. George Peterkin, Jr. served as President of Dixie Carriers and became President of Kirby in 1973. Also, in May 1982 under the guidance of Jeff Montgomery, Kirby purchased Marine Systems, Inc., a small diesel engine service company.

Jeff Montgomery was a skilled sailor and could be found most weekends sailing in Galveston Bay. Through Jeff Montgomery’s leadership, Kirby made its initial entry into the marine transportation and diesel engine services businesses, and hired Kirby’s current President and Chief Executive Officer, Joe Pyne. Today, after the completion of 25 marine and 15 diesel engine services acquisitions, Kirby is the premier inland tank barge operator and diesel engine services provider in the U.S.

Upon his death in November of 1982, the Kirby Board of Directors wrote the following, "Jeff Montgomery was a man of uncommon intellect, rare judgment and the highest degree of ethics. Those who worked with him learned much about reasoning with integrity and the maintenance of high standards. His management philosophy will live on in many people with whom he worked directly and indirectly. His foresight and steadfastness will always be an inspiration."

2-Jan-09 8:00 AM

2008 Quality Information

Jennifer Blankenship — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Throughout the year we receive many opportunities for improvement. As you can see from the Favorable vs. Non-Favorable graph 57% of OFIs submitted are actually accepted or implemented. We encourage all of the vessel crews as well as shoreside personnel to take the opportunity to submit an idea that could benefit Kirby. The most submitted OFIs were related to safety. This shows our commitment to work Safer. OFIs can be submitted using e-form 21.1 or completing KIM form # AD-0003-XX which can be found on the website.

2-Jan-09 8:00 AM

2008: A Memorable Year in Review

Kenny Shaver — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

What a busy, interesting, and challenging year 2008 proved to be. We would like to remember some of these events in the final edition of the Kirby Family news for 2008. The most memorable would probably be the two hurricanes we endured in during a two week period in September. From Houma to Baton Rouge to Houston, almost every Kirby employee was affected by these storms. We took a direct hit from a hurricane named "Ike" at our largest barge fleet in Channelview, Texas. A great effort was put forth to prepare for the storm before landfall occurred September 12, 2008. To all involved in this effort, we would like to recognize your efforts and thank you for a job well done. The storm marched right up Galveston Bay, and the eye passed over the top of the Peterkin building. Many of the Vessel Crews and Operations personnel witnessed the calm of the eye of the storm for about an hour. Then suddenly the storm continued its path and moved inland. Hurricane "Gustav" similarly did the same when it made landfall on the Louisiana coast. The MSI Group in Houma took on heavy winds as the storm continued north towards Baton Rouge where many of our employees were affected by high winds. Over 1500 Kirby employees were directly affected. The great news is that we prepared for the storm, held fleets together, manned offices, waited, weathered the storm, and took care of our own as soon as the storm passed. Kirby was prepared to get back to business as soon as it was safe to do so. To all involved, you are greatly appreciated.

We also are proud to report on 4 newly built boats that are the most recent additions to our vessel fleet. The M/V Houston, Houma, Mobile, Jeff Montgomery and soon the Galveston will be added to our vessel count. This has created new opportunities for our senior Captains to take the helm of a newly built boat and be the first to navigate this new machinery in the Inland waters of the United States. You have never seen a prouder group of Captains. As always, we appreciate our Captains and their leadership of all our Vessel crews.

Our new dorm at the Training Center will soon be completed and prepare us for our training needs as we move into 2009 and beyond. This is proof of Kirby’s commitment to training our own employees so that we all have the opportunity to improve our skills and increase our knowledge about the maritime industry we serve.

In June 2008, we instituted a new recognition program that gives Captains the power to recognize their employees for a job well done in a personal, timely fashion. The positive buzz surrounding the program continues to grow and has been very successful. It is great to see Kirby Captains taking a personal role in recognizing their crew, building trust, and creating a positive work atmosphere. To all Captains, again "Thank You!" for taking time to recognize your deck crew!

We measure many things as it relates to our core business. We are proud to report continued improvements regarding Spills, Navigation and Safety. We have very aggressive goals and specific teams focused on monitoring these key measurements to ensure we are improving daily.

We do not look back and reflect enough on some of our successes to appreciate the strides we have made as a group of committed individuals working together on this team we call Kirby. We can surely say we have had successes. Over time, our ability to succeed becomes our expected behavior and eventually becomes a Culture of Success or who we are. In humbleness and in soberness we can and should be proud of each other individually, realizing that we could not accomplish our yearly goals without a collective effort of all. Simply put, we achieve more when we work together.

The Kirby Corporation was again profitable in 2008. With the recent news of our economy weakening, future forecasts for our country uncertain, a new president, and a new year coming, we can be proud that the Kirby Corporation is well positioned to enter the new year, ready for the challenges ahead.

2-Jan-09 8:00 AM

Kirby WIN Recognition Program

Lisa Nally — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT

In June 2008, we instituted a new recognition program that gives Captains and KLM Managers the power to recognize their employees for a job well done in a personal, specific, and timely fashion. The point-based program is a great tool and is a growing success. Early on, over 55% of Kirby Captains awarded points to deserving crew members. By the end of the third quarter, only a 3 months after the program began, over 90% of all Kirby Captains and 100% of KLM Managers had awarded points to their crew and field employees. At press time, a total of over $61,000 has been awarded to deserving Crewmembers and KLM Shoretankermen and In Plant Operators. It is great to see Kirby Captains and KLM Managers taking a personal role in recognizing their people, building a positive work atmosphere and trust among their working groups.

Thank you, Kirby Captains and KLM Managers, for taking time to recognize your people!
The positive buzz surrounding the program continues to grow. I had the pleasure of meeting with the Lead Captains and in October was pleased to find skepticism about this new program was changing. As one Lead Captain put it, “The concern in the beginning was mostly because it is a brand new program and people didn’t know how to work it. Once they learned, they realize it’s a pretty good program.”

We have also updated the software to accommodate requests from our Captains and crews. Upgrades have included an easier way to award points and a “counter” to help keep track of points awarded. There is still room for improvement and we will meet with the Lead Captains again in January to announce our new upgrades and to receive feedback that would make the system as perfect as possible. Concern about the price of some items in the catalog was brought up as an issue as well. Please contact Lisa Nally or Kenny Shaver if you feel a product is not fairly priced. We will contact the vendor and work with them to determine a resolution.

Thank you to everyone who is participating and we encourage everyone who has not participated yet to do so! We are excited to see our success so far! If you have questions about how to award points, please visit my blog at www.kirbyinlandmarine.kirbycorp.com or call me at 713-435-1642. Any program feedback can be submitted to Kenny Shaver at 713-435-1833 or at kenny.shaver@kirbycorp.com. Remember our Goal is to develop a true Recognition Culture aboard our vessels and within our KLM Shoretankering group. With everyone participating in the WIN program, our goals will be accomplished.

2-Jan-09 2:00 AM

Houston Fleeting Issues and Your Response

Todd Miksch — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:00:00 GMT

While talking to a boat over the Thanksgiving Holidays I asked the Captain of the boat how things were going and if I could do anything to help him. His response was if I could “Fix the problems with the Houston Fleet that would be a great help”. I thought this would be a good opportunity to discuss the Houston Fleet and request your comments and suggestions.

The Houston Fleet at times becomes congested and difficult to work due to limited fleet space. Unfortunately we have not found an easy solution. We are currently beginning a dredging project to increase the size of the DeZavala Fleet by 10 spaces; more important this expansion will allow heater tows to fleet strung out and provide a space to run the heaters. We continue to research other fleeting options in the Houston area to increase our capacity and provide for more efficient operations of the fleet.

I have discussed before some of the issues that impact our ability to increase the capacity of the fleet in Houston. The same issues still impact our expansion opportunities. Some of these drivers are high property cost, limited property suitable for fleeting, increased cost to dredge, bulkhead cost and currently Corp of Engineer Permits can take up to two years to get issued. Rather than discuss these issues again I suggest we continue to work together to improve our operation in our current fleeting areas.

We recently added B. J. (Bob) Austin to our team as the Texas Fleet Manager. Bob will be directly responsible for the fleets in Texas (excluding Corpus Christi). Russell Hooper continues to Manage Texas Operations for Facility Operations but Bob is going to focus on Fleeting. I am requesting Bob Austin and Todd Miksch gather your suggestions and comments on how we can improve the Houston Fleet Operation.

To facilitate this effort and get it started I suggest if you have operated in the Houston Fleet in the last 90 days that you consider these questions and send you answers to Bob and Todd at Bob.Austin@KirbyCorp.com or Todd.Miksch@KirbyCorp.com or you can contact them by phone at 713-435-1806 (Bob) or 713-435-1822 (Todd). As always you are welcome to contact Russell or me at Russell.Hooper@KirbyCorp.com or Robert.Goolsby@KirbyCorp.com or by phone at 713-435-1805 (Russell) or 713-435-1801 (Robert). I also suggest you discuss the operation of the fleets with the Houston Fleet Boats and Fleet Dispatchers who do a great job managing the fleeting areas.

1. When operating in the Houston Fleet what went well or what areas have you seen improvement in recently? Be specific if possible to area of fleet operated in and the size and load status of your tow.

2. When operating in the Houston Fleet did the Houston Fleet Dispatchers provide you with accurate and timely information and assistance? Examples Location to fleet in, directing the Fleet Boats and the other Kirby Boats in the fleet to assist you, location of the barge to be picked up, etc.

3. If you operate in the Linehaul were you contacted by the fleet prior to arriving in Houston to discuss the arriving tow, tow to be picked up, if you need fuel, lube, water, etc. or other services maintenance, electronic repairs, etc. How can this process be improved?

4. When arriving in the fleet did you have fleet space available on arrival or did you have to push into the back or stand by on a landing barge to wait for fleet space?

5. What specific suggestions do you have that you believe would improve the operations of our fleets?

Bob and Todd will compile your comments and suggestions, please expand on the list above and cover any areas you believe will add value. Once your comment and suggestion have been collected they will evaluate them all and provide a response in the next issue of the Kirby Family News. Please try to get you comments to them by February 15, 2009.

Our goal is to provide a fleet that operates smoothly and provides you the service you need to operate safely and efficiently. Your comments and suggestions are critical to us understanding how we can make our operations more efficient.

Thank you in advance for participating in making our operations Safe and Efficient.

31-Dec-08 12:00 PM

KIRBY CORPORATION ANNOUNCES RECORD 2008 FIRST QUARTER RESULTS

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (April 23, 2008) – Kirby Corporation (Kirby) (NYSE:KEX) today announced record net earnings for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008 of $36.6 million, or $.68 per share, compared with net earnings of $24.4 million, or $.46 per share, for the 2007 first quarter. Kirby’s initial published 2008 first quarter earnings guidance range was $.57 to $.62 per share, which was revised to exceed $.66 per share on March 17. Consolidated revenues for the 2008 first quarter were a record $330.6 million, an increase of 21% over the $274.2 million reported for the 2007 first quarter. Joe Pyne, Kirby’s President and Chief Executive Officer commented, Our financial results produced the 17th consecutive quarter in which our earnings exceeded the same quarter of the previous year. The marine transportation fundamentals remain favorable. We operated additional boats during the quarter and operated more equipment on time charters which are insulated from revenue fluctuations caused by...

KIRBY CORPORATION ANNOUNCES RECORD RESULTS FOR THE 2007 THIRD QUARTER

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:15:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (October 24, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (Kirby) (NYSE:KEX) today announced record net earnings for the third quarter ended September 30, 2007 of $34.4 million, or $.64 per share, compared with net earnings of $25.9 million, or $.48 per share, for the 2006 third quarter. Kirby’s initial published 2007 third quarter earnings guidance range was $.53 to $.58 per share, which was revised to exceed $.60 per share on September 24. Consolidated revenues for the 2007 third quarter were a record $302.6 million, an increase of 14% over the $264.6 million reported for the 2006 third quarter. Our record third quarter results mark the 15th consecutive quarter that our earnings exceeded the same quarter of the previous year, said Joe Pyne, Kirby’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Our marine transportation demand fundamentals remain the best we have seen since the early 1980s, with our fleet of tank barges and towboats essentially fully utilized. Pricing for our services...

Kirby Corporation Announces 3rd Quarter Earnings

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (September 24, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (Kirby) (NYSE:KEX) announced today that it expects its 2007 third quarter net earnings to exceed $.60 per share, above earnings guidance of $.53 to $.58 per share, and substantially above 2006 third quarter earnings of $.48 per share. Kirby will address the 2007 fourth quarter and year guidance when it announces its third quarter results at 5:01 p.m. central time on October 24, followed by its conference call at 10:00 a.m. central time on October 25, 2007. Joe Pyne, Kirby’s President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, Kirby’s marine transportation segment’s basic operating fundamentals remain very favorable, with strong demand in all of our transportation markets: petrochemical, black oil, refined products and agricultural chemicals. Our fleet remains essentially fully utilized, creating a favorable environment for fairly pricing our services. Contract and spot market pricing continues to trend upward and we continue to...

Kirby Corporation announces record results for the 2007 second quarter

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (July 25, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (“Kirby”) (NYSE:KEX) today announced record net earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2007 of $30,137,000, or $.56 per share, compared with net earnings of $23,643,000, or $.44 per share, for the 2006 second quarter. Kirby’s published earnings guidance range for the 2007 second quarter was $.48 to $.53 per share. Consolidated revenues for the 2007 second quarter were a record $288,008,000, an increase of 18% over $243,292,000 reported for the 2006 second quarter. Kirby reported record net earnings for the 2007 first six months of $54,559,000, or $1.02 per share, compared with $46,154,000, or $.87 per share, for the first six months of 2006. Consolidated revenues for the 2007 first six months were a record $562,219,000, a 20% increase compared with $468,195,000 for the first half of 2006. Marine transportation revenues and operating income for the 2007 second quarter increased 13% and 25%,...

Kirby Corporation Signs Agreement To Purchase Saunders Engine and Equipment Company, Inc.

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 20:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (July 9, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (“Kirby”) (NYSE:KEX) announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Marine Systems, Inc., has agreed to purchase substantially all of the assets of Saunders Engine and Equipment Company, Inc. (“Saunders”), a privately held Gulf Coast high-speed diesel engine services provider, for approximately $13.2 million in cash, subject to post-closing inventory and other adjustments. The purchase of Saunders is anticipated to close on or before July 20, 2007. Saunders, established in 1959 and headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, operates factory-authorized full service marine dealerships for Cummins and Detroit Diesel engines, and serves as an authorized marine dealer for Caterpillar engines in Alabama. Saunders’ principal customers are Gulf Coast inland waterway carriers and general marine companies. For the 2006 year, Saunders generated revenues of approximately $18 million. The acquisition will be financed...

Kirby Releases 1st Quarter Earnings

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:15:00 GMT

KIRBY CORPORATION ANNOUNCES RECORD RESULTS FOR THE 2007 FIRST QUARTER • 2007 first quarter earnings per share were $.46 versus $.42 reported for the 2006 first quarter • 2007 second quarter earnings per share guidance is $.48 to $.53 versus $.44 earned in the 2006 second quarter • 2007 year earnings per share guidance is $1.95 to $2.10 versus $1.79 earned in the 2006 year Houston, Texas (April 25, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (“Kirby”) (NYSE:KEX) today announced record net earnings for the first quarter ended March 31, 2007 of $24,422,000, or $.46 per share, compared with net earnings of $22,511,000, or $.42 per share, for the 2006 first quarter. Consolidated revenues for the 2007 first quarter were a record $274,211,000, an increase of 22% over $224,903,000 reported for the 2006 first quarter. Revenues for the marine transportation segment for the 2007 first quarter increased 10% and operating income increased 11% compared with the first quarter...

Kirby Announces 4th Quarter and Year Results

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 22:00:00 GMT

2006 fourth quarter earnings per share were $.45, an 18% increase compared with $.38 earned in the 2005 fourth quarter, despite a 31% increase in weather and navigational delays 2006 year earnings per share were $1.79, a 35% increase compared with $1.33 earned in the 2005 year 2007 first quarter earnings per share guidance is $.40 to $.45 versus $.43 earned in the 2006 first quarter 2007 year earnings per share guidance is $1.95 to $2.10 versus $1.79 earned in the 2006 year Kirby reported record net earnings for the 2006 year of $95,451,000, or $1.79 per share, compared with $68,781,000, or $1.33 per share, for 2005. Consolidated revenues for the 2006 year were $984,218,000, a 24% increase compared with $795,722,000 for 2005. Marine transportation revenues and operating income for the 2006 fourth quarter increased 9% and 10%, respectively, compared with the fourth quarter of 2005. For the 2006 year, revenues and operating income increased 18% and 28%, respectively,...

Kirby Corporaiton Purchases Tank Barges

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 18:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (January 3, 2007) – Kirby Corporation (“Kirby”) (NYSE:KEX) announced today the purchase of the stock of Coastal Towing, Inc. (“Coastal”), the owner of 37 inland black oil tank barges, for approximately $19.3 million in cash, subject to post closing working capital adjustments. Kirby has been operating the Coastal tank barges since October 2002 under a barge management agreement. Kirby also announced the purchase of 21 tank barges from Cypress Barge Leasing, LLC (“Cypress”) for $15.0 million in cash. Kirby has been leasing the barges since 1994 when the leases were assigned to Kirby as part of Kirby’s purchase of the tank barge fleet of The Dow Chemical Company. Both the Coastal and the Cypress purchases were financed through Kirby’s $250 million revolving credit facility. Joe Pyne, Kirby’s President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Kirby always prefers to own rather than lease whenever...

BARGE CLEANING FACILITY HELPER

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 21:44:45 GMT

Title: BARGE CLEANING FACILITY HELPER Description: SUMMARY Cleaning facility Helper performs the tasks associated with ensuring a barge is safe for entry by testing the atmosphere. Once the barge is tested safe by a licensed industrial hygienist the helper will then perform the duties required to strip and clean the barge in order to prepare it for its next cargo per owners’ specifications. The PIC must adhere to Kirby’s training, safety, drug and security requirements in order to insure safe and efficient working conditions for barge cleaning. ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Barge Cleaning and Stripping operations Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning Determine where cargo is to be transferred based on cargo type, amount, and available storage Work under chemical hygienist and marine chemist to test tanks for vapor toxicity and LELs to ensure that levels are below the level required for safe...

Community Outreaches

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:42:41 GMT

At Kirby, we're family! Community Outreach events are one of Kirby's ways of expressing thanks and recognition to our crewmembers and their families. They are also great opportunities to bring folks together in a fun-filled, off-the-clock environment. If you have a chance to join us for one this year, please do so. You will have a good time, meet people and be reminded that you are a part of the Kirby Family, too! 2009 Community Outreach Pictures and Information Lafayette, LA pictures Mobile, AL pictures Livingston, TX pictures Vicksburg, MS pictures Gonnzales, LA pictures Port Mansfield, TX pictures Date Place Directions March 28, 2009 ...

Kirby Community Picnics

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 20:53:53 GMT

At Kirby, we're family! Kirby Community Picnics are a great way that Kirby welcomes its employees and their family into the Kirby family. These events are free and fun for the entire family and a great opportunity to put a name with a face! Kirby’s own shore staff cooks enough food to feed a small army while visiting with friends and family. Kids are entertained by everything from jumpabouts to piñatas to face painting and everyone loves the door-prize drawings. Since our humble beginning in 2000, over 6,500 people have participated with the community outreaches with a record 1,400 people attending the Channelview company picnic in October of 2006! 2009 Kirby Community Picnic Pictures and Information Lafayette, LA pictures and information Houma, LA pictures and...

Warrant Officers

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:01:04 GMT

Life after the Army doesn't have to be spent on land! Kirby has great interest in hiring former Warrant Officers of the US Army. We value their time and experience on waters all over the world. The Warrant Officer Program has been developed to hire and train warrant officers to serve as officers onboard inland towing vessels. Successful applicants enter the program as licensed steersmen where they will learn the necessary skills to pilot a towing vessel and tow upon the Inland Waters and Western Rivers. There are many reasons to consider a career with Kirby Inland Marine: Terrific benefits Commitment to training An established career ladder Challenges and rewards Kirby’s service area spans America’s inland waterway network: The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, the Mississippi River System,...

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:26:34 GMT

Who's This Crewman? Be the first to guess who the young, handsome captain is to the right and you will win! Email at kenny.shaver@kirbycorp.com for your chance to guess that crewman! Congratulations to Ken Penn of the M/V Concho, Steve Dubois of the M/V Bonnie Sue, Neil Carter of the M/V Bonnie Sue and Dennis Stephens of the M/V Pecos. All correctly guessed the previous contest which was Richard Gonzales of the M/V Thor. Because the KFN was sent out late, the contest is open until the prize is one! ......................................................................................................... We're bringing out our old pictures, Kirby Family News', and posting your old pictures in 2008! New this year is a new contest - and we need your help! The basis of the contest is...

Case Studies

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:48:50 GMT

Kirby Inland Marine > Prospective Employees > Case Studies Make $31,850 in your first Year! Typical pay as Tankermen Trainee with Kirby on a vessel: Maritime Career First 6 Months aboard vessel: Pay per day - $120 After approximately 50 days and successful completion of Kirby's Basic Tankerman Class, pay increases to - $125/day. Vessel Days worked 1st 6 months 120 Hours worked 1st 6 months 1440 6 month wage total $14,750 Hourly rate $10.24 Total Wages in the first 6 months aboard vessel - $14,750 Second six months of your first year: Pay per day - $138 After 60 additional days pay increases to - $157/day. Vessel Days worked 2nd 6 months 120 Hours worked 2nd 6 months 1440 6 month wage total $17,700...

Tankerman Trainee Job Description

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:43:27 GMT

Tankerman trainees assist others on the vessel in preparing barges for the loading and discharging of cargo. Trainees build tows by handling lines and cables to tie and untie barges and boats. Trainees perform scheduled vessel maintenance care for tools and equipment, and perform general housekeeping duties as assigned by their supervisor. They adhere to company safety policy and procedures, environmental rules and governmental regulation. Trainees work under the supervision of the Captain or the trainee's immediate supervisor. Tankerman Trainees are put on the 'fast-track' to becoming licensed by the US Coast Guard to be tankermen. Trainer Jeff Jenkins evaluates a trainee. A tankerman trainee is: willing to learn from others stable under pressure able to use basic math able to follow directions able to make...

Maritime Jobs - Employee Testimonials

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:50:00 GMT

Vessel Pay while trained, from Trainee to Steersman I have worked different jobs in the past, and I have found that working for Kirby suits me best. I don't know of many companies that will pay while training or offer you the opportunities for advancement like Kirby does. The pay that Kirby offers very competitive as well. The benefits (life insurance, 401K, health, retirement, etc.) are also very good considering the fact that other jobs I had don't offer them. I look forward to a long and rewarding career with Kirby. Heath Burns Steersman, M/V Vandal Trainee to Pilot My name is Toby Brittain and I started as a trainee in July of 2002. I was told when I started my career with Kirby that I would have countless opportunities to move up in the company, and with a little hard work, support from my family, I can honestly say that this is a true statement. After four months of training, I had a Tankerman Ticket and from there followed the line of progression. In...

Lafayette Family Outreach

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 21:20:11 GMT

Over two hundred people attended the first Kirby Community Outreach event of the season on Saturday, March 28, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Gorgeous cool but sunny weather greeted Kirby employees and their families who gathered to enjoy tasty crawfish prepared by our own Jerry Orgeron as well as hot dogs and hamburgers grilled to perfection by Ed Reioux and the Vessel Operations team with his new grill. Kids enjoyed two jumpabouts and a rock-climbing wall, while both adults and kids enjoyed sno-cones and funnel cakes. Even if the men and women who work long hours cannot attend, their families are part of the Kirby Inalnd Marine family and we encourage them to come out for some fun! Beautiful Acadian Village Crawfish cooked by Jerry Orgeron! The portable rock-climbing wall was a...

Training

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:51:17 GMT

Kirby's commitment to training is paramount. We are the industry leader! Kirby looks at training not as an expense, but as an investment in our employees. This investment pays through our safety record, our customer's satisfaction in the quality of our services, as well as our employee's job satisfaction. ............................................................................................................................................................................. Kirby has an in-house training complex and a complete set of US Coast Guard approved classes. The training facility includes a dorm, galley (dining hall) and multiple classrooms. When you are training, you will be housed at one of our houses or dormitories for the duration of your class at no cost. The Training Center currently offers eleven USCG-approved training courses and a Mate (Pilot) Program (MTV)...

Life as a Deckhand or Tankerman Trainee

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:19:01 GMT

As a new employee, you can earn over $1400 in training wages with successful completion of the Basic Deckhand Class and first vessel assignment. You can earn over $30,000 in your first year of employment at Kirby and as much as $41,000 by the time you've completed your second year. The Basic Deckhand class is an entry level program for inexperienced new hires entering the marine industry and is held at our industry-leading United States Coast Guard-approved Training Center. The program is 12 days in duration and incorporates both formal classroom and hands-on training techniques. Room and board is provided at no cost to you. The Training Center is located in Channelview, Texas. In class, you will receive world class leading-edge United States Coast Guard approved training from experienced instructors. You will learn about safety, seamanship, towing vessel and barge terminology, expectations and...

Kirby Computer Usage

noemail@kirbycorpjobs.com — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

This survey is to assess computer usage aboard Kirby vessels and at home. Please answer the questions honestly as we want the most accurate data possible.

Thank you for your time.

Release Date: 8-Feb-08 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 28-Apr-08 8:00 AM
Please answer the following questions by selecting the appropriate answer.

DSC_1635

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:31:37 GMT