About

A United Front In Preserving Freedom
A Compelling Commitment to Service

We began as a full-scale marine preservation company for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.

Now, we’re an independently owned and operated company driven with a passion to serve the country and our customers. As a small business, we play a vital role in providing competitive options for government projects, helping to prevent monopolies and ensure fair competition.

Bridging Precision
and Patriotism

As Advanced Marine Preservation (AMP) United, we are committed to bringing together the quality and heart needed to serve with valor and honor.

How We Serve is What Sets Us Apart

A group of five professionals standing in front of a branded backdrop at an award ceremony. Each person is holding a trophy, and they appear to be celebrating their achievements.

Bi-coastal Operations

With personnel located in Virginia, California (including Alameda), New Hampshire, Bremerton (WA), and Hawaii, we are well-positioned to serve naval and civilian touchpoints.

Pricing Based on Value and Efficiency

While firm fixed pricing remains a core approach, we adapt pricing as necessary, balancing competitiveness with the need for sustainable, long-term success. 

A Human-Focused Approach In Pursuing Excellence

Shipyards and infrastructure aren’t cogs in the machine. They are a vital part of our country’s foundation. We strive to treat every customer and employee with integrity and respect.

Driven by vision

Focused on the Mission

As a company of more than 400+ employees, we pride ourselves on staying focused on our mission: Safeguarding the freedom and security of the American people. We put a primer on respect, positivity, and a safe work environment. We prioritize integrity and accountability, and strive to continuously improve and learn.

The stern of a large ship, labeled "NITZE," showing its two large propellers, positioned in a dry dock with orange safety barriers in the foreground and cranes visible above.
Credit: US Navy

Our Values

Timely and Transparent Communication

Loyalty is a two-way street. We take that seriously, putting in the effort to maintain strong, trustworthy relationships.

Safety

Through rigorous protocols, ongoing training, and accountability, we minimize risks and protect both people and assets.

Empowering Freedom and Flourishing

We are driven by the mission of preserving freedom—for all Americans. We empower our team to flourish as individuals, offering support, resources, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

Adaptability and Solutions-Oriented Thinking

Our commitment to adaptability fosters a growth mindset, encouraging continuous improvement and the pursuit of new ways to add value to our work, products, and services.

Accountability Through Integrity

Whether to our clients, stakeholders, or government partners, we uphold integrity by being accountable to our commitments and expertise.

Humble Expertise

We approach every project as problem solvers who listen first, seeking to fully understand client needs before delivering tailored solutions.

Working for AMP United is a very rewarding experience; to be a part of a company that contributes back to the US Navy as a military dependent hits home for me. I have been in HR for over 20 years and AMP United is by far one of the best places I have been employed at. No days are the same and I truly enjoy the engagement with our employees.
Quesha Williams
Human Resource Business Partner, Norfolk, VA
What sets AMP United apart is our strong commitment to teamwork and fostering a supportive atmosphere. The collaborative culture encourages problem-solving, innovation, and provides valuable growth opportunities. I'm proud to be a part of a company that contributes to a cause that supports our nation's security and safety.
Shayla Collins
Timekeeping Administrator, Norforlk, VA
The culture here is like a second family—collaborative, supportive, and open to ideas. With advanced training and new challenges, AMP United has fueled my growth. It’s more than a job; it’s a thriving community.
Caulin Dutt
Project Support Manager, Bremerton, WA
Since joining AMP United LLC in April 2015, I’ve been proud to be part of a company grounded in Christian values. As the Project Manager for the West Coast Industrial Division, I appreciate working with a team that leads with integrity, puts faith into action, and takes pride in delivering quality work.
Raymond Alverez
Project Manager, San Diego, CA
I’ve been with AMP for over a decade, and I can honestly say it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Working in ship repair and preservation isn’t just about fixing vessels—it’s about maintaining history, keeping people safe, and ensuring the future of maritime operations. Over the years, I’ve grown professionally and personally, supported by a team that believes in mentorship, continuous learning, and doing things the right way. It’s rare to find a place where your voice is heard, your work is appreciated, and your contributions truly make an impact. I’m proud to be part of this company’s story.
Melanie Brown
EHS Manager, Norfolk, VA
Our team

The Team Behind AMP United

We’re led by a cohesive executive team that shapes our company’s growth, values, and direction.

Our culture is built on a strong ethical foundation, with a desire to honor God, create wealth for employees, and support Christian service. With a focus on integrity, high performance, and employee investment, the company aims to deliver exceptional service while fostering a family-like, trusted environment.

In an industry where loyalty and trust toward its workforce isn’t a premium, we work hard in helping our employees grow personally and professionally. We are successful because our employees are successful. 


Peter Lignos
Founder and President

Peter has grown the company to become a leader in the preservation of America’s infrastructure. As a third-generation leader, he leads the organization to deliver our customer experience in the areas of efficient cost allocation, schedule commitment, and first-pass quality.

Scott Devoid
Chief Financial Officer

Scott is a seasoned financial and operational leader with over 25 years of experience, bringing a practical, hands-on approach to problem solving and strategic planning, developed through roles at Fortune 100 companies including General Dynamics, ThermoFisher, and Abbott Laboratories.

Chad MacWilliams
Director of Operations

Chad is Director of Operations at AMP United with 25+ years in industrial preservation. He oversees shipyard operations and project execution, having advanced from fieldwork to leadership across California’s tank and shipyard sectors.

Melanie Leland
Controller

As Controller at AMP United, Melanie leverages a background in manufacturing accounting and financial analysis to support strategic financial planning. Her leadership is values-driven, shaped by years of experience and a commitment to continuous learning.

Mike Palmer
Director of Programs

Mike serves as the director of programs at AMP United, bringing 25 years in operations and 33 years as a Naval Officer to the work. He drives strategic execution, process improvement, and cross-functional leadership to support growth and efficiency.

Kolby Skaflestad
Area Manager

Kolby, our Pacific Northwest Operations Manager at AMP United, leverages U.S. Navy leadership and maritime expertise to drive efficient ship repairs and operational readiness, blending innovation, resilience, and regional insight along the West Coast.

Michael McCarthy
Area Manager

Mike brings 20 years of project management experience in commercial and industrial construction. Now based in Virginia, he contributes fresh perspective and leadership to AMP United’s ship preservation efforts as a valued member of the management team.

Raymond Alvarez
Area Manager

Raymond brings 17+ years in industrial coatings as our project manager for the West Coast Industrial Division. He leads complex infrastructure projects with hands-on expertise, innovation, and a strong focus on quality, safety, and performance.

Brandon Moffitt
Scaffold Operations Manager

With 22 years in scaffolding, Brandon leads AMP’s scaffolding division, specializing in naval, industrial, and commercial projects. Known for craftsmanship and safety, he has built one of the premier scaffolding operations in the country.

Mark Casey
Scaffold Operations Manager

As Scaffold Manager for AMP United’s San Diego and Hawaii ports, Mark brings 32 years of experience in commercial and maritime scaffolding. He leads a skilled team supporting preservation projects with safety, precision, and dedication.

Musa Yemhatpe
Structural Operations Manager

Musa Yemhatpe brings over a decade of ship repair experience across hull, mechanical, electrical, and preservation work. He’s known for hands-on leadership and a strong commitment to quality.

John Davenport
Quality Assurance Manager

John brings over 25 years of dedicated experience in the shipyard and ship repair industry. As Quality Assurance Manager, John combines deep technical expertise with a people-first leadership style, ensuring every project meets the highest standards of quality and performance.

Victor Bucher
Quality Assurance Manager

With over 30 years of experience in the marine coating industry, Victor is dedicated to delivering high-quality paint solutions and exceptional craftsmanship in every project. He is committed to advancing his skills and knowledge to ensure the best outcomes for our customers.

Melanie Brown
EHS Manager

Melanie is our EHS Manager at AMP United. She brings over a decade of safety leadership and deep shipyard roots. She’s committing to fostering a culture of care, compliance, and continuous learning across all operational environments.

Vanessa Dibella
EHS Manager

Vanessa is a committed Safety Environmental Manager with 10 years of experience in the industry, driven by a deep passion for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all individuals in the workplace.

Tess Shugdinis
FSO & Trades Development

Tess is a seasoned professional with 25 years of Navy preservation experience, specializing in contract management, procurement, and employee development.

Tamara Quesha Williams
Human Resources Manager

Tamara Quesah Williams is a seasoned HR Business Partner for more than 20 years, with leadership roles at Bank of America and American Express. She is passionate about supporting teams and building a strong culture here at AMP United.

Patrick Galla
Contracts Manager

Patrick oversees contracts and invoicing while supporting project progress. With a background in ministry and theology, he also serves as a staff chaplain and volunteer pastor, blending faith with work.

Ryan Hickey
Compliance and Risk Manager

Ryan, our Compliance and Risk Manager, leverages over 20 years of U.S. Navy nuclear officer experience in risk management, regulatory compliance, and process improvement to uphold safety and operational excellence at AMP United.

Jean Blanchard
Risk and Compliance & Contract Manager

Jean brings 30+ years of experience in contract and project management, Lean Six Sigma, and strategic planning, driving performance and securing major Department of Defense contracts.

Matthew Virostko
NDT Level III Examiner

Matthew Virostko, the NDT Level III Examiner for AMP United, brings 15+ years of global experience in underwater welding, non-destructive testing, and ship repair. He excels in project management, inspection, and quality assurance in demanding environments.

Billie Johnson
Safety Manager

Billie Johnson serves as the Safety Manager, where she champions occupational safety across all ship repair operations. Billie brings a wealth of expertise in implementing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Dina Avila
Quality Assurance Specialist

With a keen eye for detail and a strong background in quality control as our Quality Assurance Specialist, Dina oversees preservation processes, guaranteeing durability and excellence in the protection of vessels.

Bobby Hennis
Chief Estimator

As Chief Estimator, Bobby leads his department in consistently delivering accurate and competitive estimates that support operational excellence.

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