What VMI Dredges Means to Me

 

What VMI Dredges Means to Me

By AK Chastain Jones, VMI Dredges Graphic Artist

Today was a heavy day. We gathered as a team, a family really, to lay to rest a member of our extended VMI family—the brother of our president, Cash Maitlen. In moments like these, it’s clear that VMI Dredges is so much more than just a dredge manufacturer. It’s a place where the connections run deep, and the people stand by each other. Our legacy here is about more than the equipment we build; it’s about the commitment we have to one another and to the future we’re creating together.

When you walk through the doors here, you’re not just clocking in to build machines; you’re stepping into a legacy. For decades, we’ve been manufacturing dredges that are known for their quality and reliability, but the true value of what we build comes from the dedication of the people behind it. It’s a legacy that is grounded in hard work, resilience, and an unwavering sense of responsibility—not just to our customers but to each other. We’re carrying on something that started long before us and, with every project we complete, we’re adding to that story.

Today, as we stood by Cash’s side to honor his brother, it was a moment to reflect on the values that have kept VMI Dredges strong. We manufacture dredges, yes, and we take pride in what we produce. But the heartbeat of this company is its people—the ones you see every day, share a coffee with, rely on, and lean on, especially when life throws those tough moments our way.

This legacy isn’t just about machines that stand the test of time; it’s about the relationships, the memories, and the strength we build together. VMI isn’t just about the machinery that leaves our facility. It’s about the resilience we pass on, the lessons we share, and the unwavering support we provide each other. It’s about showing up in ways that matter, whether it’s working late to meet a deadline or standing side by side at a service to honor one of our own.

Being part of VMI Dredges means being part of something that’s built to last—not just in our products but in the way we treat each other, respect each other, and ensure that no one stands alone. Our legacy at VMI is not just about what we build; it’s about who we are, and I’m proud to be part of it.