AIT Marine East Coast Team
Carl Spraberry
CEO
Carl was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1975 where he worked as a Nuclear Welder and Nuclear Planner until his commissioning through the Limited Duty Officer program in 1986. He served in various positions as a Maintenance Officer, Planning Officer, and Damage Control/Engineering Officer on several ships and shore commands. He retired in 1994 and joined a local ship repair/government contracting company, QED Systems where he spent 12 years as the Director of Technical Services. Recruited by a local shipyard he started a small ship repair company Ocean Tech Services, where he served as the President beginning in July 2006 and left to start his own company in August of 2009. Since its inception his company, Advanced Integrated Technologies, and the staffing business he started in 2012, Surge Force, have grown to over 200 employees working throughout Hampton Roads and other areas, supporting the local shipyards and various government agencies in ship repair, modernization, and new technologies. He is a member of many trade organizations including the Virginia Ship Repair Association, American Society of Naval Engineers, Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Virginia Port Authority, Virginia Maritime Association, National Ship Repair Council, Port of San Diego Ship Repair Association and he co-founded the American Maritime Modernization Association (AMMA). His charitable affiliations include President of the Southside Boys and Girls Club, Treasurer of Cerebral Palsy of Virginia, Treasurer of Hunt’s Pointe on the Elizabeth Homeowners Association, leadership council of the Hampton Roads United Way campaign, and founder of the Virginia Microboard Association.
Cheryl Spraberry
President
As president of Advanced Integrated Technologies, Cheryl Spraberry is responsible for the Norfolk, Virginia and San Diego, California operations and future strategic expansions. She brings more than 20 years of leadership and expertise focused on operational planning, government procurement, safety, human resources, logistics and developing new business opportunities and building client partnerships.
Cheryl joined Advanced Integrated Technologies in 2009 as the receptionist and Executive Administrator to the President and quickly promoted to Human Resource Manager, subsequently promoted to Vice President in 2016. With a strong background in Human Resources and a passion to help others grow professionally and personally, she established the company’s talent management acquisition strategy. The company employs more than 120 people and is one of the top ship repair subcontractors for supporting the US Navy.
Cheryl was appointed by Governor Youngkin in 2022 to the Virginia State Board of Workforce Development. She has served or is currently serving on the board of directors for the following, American Maritime Modernization Association, National Federation of Independent Business, DRC, Leadership Committee and WAVE (Woman Against Violence. She is currently a member of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Virginia Ship Repair Association (VSRA), and the Port of San Diego Ship Repair Association (PSDSRA).
Other Professional Affiliations and Volunteer Industrial Experience include:
Kerry T. Slane
Business Manager
Kerry has more than 30 years of experience in the management of engineering projects involving the maintenance, repair, testing, product improvement and alterations affiliated with U.S. Naval Ship and Submarine Hull, Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic Systems. He generates bid proposals, conducts cash flow forecasts, develops and monitors annual budgets. Kerry also interacts with Contracts and Program Management to provide assessment of contract compliance, execute options and modifications, develop cost estimates, resolve contract funding issues and coordinate deliverables. Additionally, he manages the financial status of Prime contracts and monitors contracts for profitability and pricing consistency.
Miranda Jenkins-Holland
CFO
Miranda joined Advanced Integrated Technologies in November 2019 and serves as the CFO for AIT and Surge Force. Miranda is an innovative and driven accounting professional with over 19 years of diverse finance and government contracting experience, in the small to mid-sized business sectors. She specializes in financial modeling, cash flow management, cost accounting, and budgeting/forecasting. Miranda is actively pursuing her B.A. in Business Administration at Strayer University. In her spare
Matthew Masciangelo
Vice President of Quality Assurance and Safety
Mr. Masciangelo has been part of Advanced Integrated Technologies for ten years. During his loyal tenure, he has worked in warehouse logistics, waterfront production and quality assurance management, proving himself to be a loyal advocate for the company and our vision. Mr. Matthew Masciangelo first came to AIT after graduating from East Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in business administration. Raised in a military family from Brunswick, Maine and childhood years spent in Naples, Italy he has a personal appreciation for the men and women that serve this country. Valuing the moral fiber instilled in him from an early age, he applied his unwavering integrity, selflessness, and disciplined work ethic to steer the company’s ambition in becoming a prime contractor for the Department of Defense to attainable realization. Playing a pinnacle role in driving our safety and quality programs forward.
Pat Lemery
VP of Operations
We are delighted to announce and extend our heartfelt congratulations to Patrick Lemery on his recent promotion to the position of Vice President of Operations. Originally from upstate New York, Lemery embarked on a notable journey with the United States Navy in 2011. During his tenure, he not only expanded his knowledge but also honed his skillset, achieving a Master Mechanic Certification in 3600 series Caterpillar Diesel Engines. Further solidifying his expertise, he completed Land-Based Engineering for the Colt Pielstick STC 2.5 Main Propulsion Engines on LPD Class ships. Transitioning from the Navy, Patrick joined the ship repair and modernization sector, contributing significantly to Advanced Integrated Technologies (AIT) as a Team Lead. With unwavering dedication, he played a pivotal role in the operational growth of AIT, progressing through the ranks to assume the positions of Production Manager and Director of Production. In his elevated role as VP of Operations, Mr. Lemery will continue to provide operational oversight, steadfastly upholding the AIT mission of “Serving the Ships that Serve US.” Additionally, he plays a key role in supporting our West Coast expansion.
John Thompson
Business Development/Program Manager
With 41 Years of experience in the shipbuilding and ship repair industry, John has demonstrated exceptional leadership and team-building skills, successfully managing cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious objectives in the industry. John graduated from the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School with honors later earning a certificate in structural engineering. With a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving, John excels at aligning project goals with business objectives and driving teams towards excellence. His collaborative leadership style and effective communication skills foster a positive work environment, encouraging team members to perform at their best. Outside of work, John enjoys hiking, traveling, community service and spending time with family and friends.
Earl Proetzel
Non-Complex Program Manager/Contact Analyst
Mr. Proetzel reports directly to the Vice President for the management of all contracts and company operations. Provides assessment of contract compliance, executes options and modifications, develops cost estimates, resolves contract funding issues and coordinates deliverables. Reviews the financial status of active delivery orders using EVMS. Processes Requests for Proposal, issues Stop Work Orders, conducts reviews of Statements of Work and monitors all contracts for profitability and pricing consistency. Interacts with the Contracts and Program Management functional organizations. Builds capabilities, develops personnel and integrates the processes of these teams to effectively manage business operations. Generates bid proposals, conducts cash flow forecasts and monitors annual budgets.
Luis Rodriguez
Machining and Fabricator Director
Luis has been in the Ship Repair Business for 17 years now. He started as a fire watch and kept improving his skills in the field. Luis became a skill and known welder in the industry. Luis has been with AIT for the last years and has been the Machining and Fabricating Director for the last 3 years. On his down time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and 4 kids.
Corey Whetsel
Production Manager
Corey Whetsel is a dedicated Sr. Project Manager on Non-Complex Avails with over 16 years of experience in troubleshooting, testing, and repairing mechanical systems. He joined AIT in 2019 as a Mechanic and has since moved up in positions from Team Lead, Project Manager, to Sr. Project Manager showing drive and determination day in and day out. During this time Corey has accomplished and supported over 50 CMAVs and 6 EMAVs while completing management and job-related training to maintain readiness and support positive action in getting our US Navy Ships ready for Sea. Corey is a dedicated husband and father of 2 wonderful children, and during his off time he enjoys camping with family, fishing, boating, and exploring.
Scott Finnie
Senior Project Manager
Scott Finnie is a Senior Project Manager with an impressive 21-year tenure in the Navy, where he honed his leadership and management skills in various challenging environments. In 2012, Scott transitioned into the Maritime Ship Repair Industry bringing his wealth of knowledge and expertise. As a Sr. Project Manager, he has demonstrated relentless dedication to excellence, consistently delivering successful outcomes on our projects. His strong leadership, strategic vision, and attention to detail have earned him a reputation as a trusted and effective leader in his field.
Corey Bancroft
Senior Project Manager
Corey’s journey with us began in 2018 as a highly skilled Sheet Metal Mechanic, and his dedication and leadership have been nothing short of exceptional. In a remarkably short span, Corey demonstrated his capabilities by swiftly advancing to the position of Team Lead. His pivotal role in steering our company AIT through one of our largest habitability projects showcased his proficiency and commitment to excellence. Subsequently, as Project Manager, Corey continued to excel, spearheading yet another successful habitability project. His strategic mindset, coupled with unwavering commitment to timelines and quality, made a lasting impact on our project outcomes. Now, in his new capacity as Senior Project Manager, Corey will be entrusted with overseeing all aspects of complex availabilities. This includes the critical areas of cost management, adherence to schedules, and personnel coordination. We have full confidence that Corey’s wealth of experience and proven leadership will bring continued success to our projects.
Bob Demerly
Welding Coordinator
Bob is our Welding Coordinator/ NDT Level II. He has more than 35 years of experience in ship repair including work as a boiler maker, shipfitter, and welder. When he is not in the shipyard or giving test, Bob can be found golfing or fishing.
Alfredo Perez
Controller
Alfredo Perez is from Corpus Christi, Tx, and after High School he joined the US Navy where he served as a Disbursing Clerk and retired in 2014. During his Navy time, he coordinated & synchronized administration, force protection, logistics & technical support for 100 district Assessment & Reform Team members, which enabled the 2008 Afghan National Police integration. As a Convoy Commander, he safely traveled extensively throughout Afghanistan, convoying more than 1,500 miles into hostile & occasionally remote regions with imminent threat of IEDs & SVBIEDs. He has experience in accounting, financial, sale service, and administration in civilian and military with over 30 years of direct managing experience including the mentoring, coaching, and training of accounting, financial, and HR staff. And, that is what he does, he drinks wine and knows numbers!
M.B.A. Accounting Cognate, Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia.
Bachelor of Science in Management Studies, University of Maryland University College, with an Associates in Arts focus in Accounting.
Nick Nicastro
Safety Manager
Nick Nicastro is from Chesapeake, VA, and started with AIT December 2018. He previously has 10 years in the maritime industry as a diesel mechanic, C13 waterjetter, and NBPI paint inspector. During his employment with AIT, he was quickly promoted to a Team Lead position and with hard work and dedication, he was also promoted to Safety Manager. His goal is to assure compliance with OSHA requirements and help workers reduce on-the-job hazards and prevent injuries and illnesses. Nick’s favorite part of his career is making sure employees are safe and have a safe working environment.
Hildebrand “Eddie” Limon
Purchasing Manager
Eddie Limon joined the AIT team in early December of 2020, bringing with him over 25 years combined experience in Ship Repair and Project Management. Born at US Naval Hospital Rota, Spain, he speaks Spanish fluently which makes working with our bilingual workforce a seamless evolution. He served in the US Navy as a Boatswain’s Mate reaching Chief Petty Officer in 2005. He did multiple deployments onboard USS Arleigh Burke DDG 51, USS Cole DDG 67, and USS Monterey CG-61 to name a few of his commands while on active duty. After serving he transitioned into ship repair gaining a wealth of experience with structural repairs, HENL and BENL work, and PCMS installation. His motto has always been one team one fight and he is a firm believer in training his peers to better the team. Eddie made a lateral move to the Purchasing Department in August 2022, bringing his waterfront experience and knowledge to the department. He has helped the team do more with less and streamlining the material bidding process. His process has improved material getting on the job faster eliminating the project team’s assistance and allowing them to focus on execution vice the preparation of the work to be accomplished.
Cody Bancroft
Project Manager
With a career spanning over a decade, Cody Bancroft embarked on a professional journey in 2012, diving into the dynamic world of shipbuilding straight out of high school. Over time, he honed his skills as a first-class Sheet Metal Mechanic, laying the groundwork for what would become a remarkable trajectory. In 2018, Cody Bancroft started at Advanced Integrated Technologies, where he embraced new challenges and opportunities. Rapidly rising through the ranks, he assumed the role of Team Lead in 2019. Building upon his solid foundation, Cody seized the role of Project Manager in 2021, steering complex initiatives with precision and determination. Throughout his journey, he specialized in habitability. With each milestone, Cody has remained steadfast in his dedication to excellence, constantly pushing boundaries and striving for innovation.
Joe Porath
Project Manager
Daniel Joe Porath, 61 years old. began in the industry as a sailor in 1982 and was a West Coast Sailor for 27 years. Retired from the US Navy in 2009 where I began working as a contractor for the Government at PACSHIP, moved on to BAE Systems SD Ship Repairs and was involved in 17 US Naval Ship upgrades. Left there to CMSD / HII SD Ship Repair for CVN-72 Refrigeration System upgrade and then made my way to SCW&M SD Ship Repair, came to Chesapeake VA and assisted for 2 months getting 3 ships back out to sea and was talked in to relocating to VA as the Production Manager, asked to take a step down to Project Manager and made the move to AMP United as the Structural Project Manager and left to the new home at AIT Marine in February of 2023.
Tanya Little
Senior Buyer
Tanya brings over three decades of invaluable expertise in purchasing and production planning for commodity manufacturers, coupled with eleven years of specialized experience in the Ship Repair Industry. As a native New Yorker, Tanya’s professional journey reflects her dynamic capabilities and her commitment to excellence. Beyond her professional achievements, Tanya cherishes her role as a devoted mother and wife. In addition to corporate endeavors, Tanya has carved her path as an entrepreneur, establishing a thriving event planning and décor business. Her passion for creativity finds expression in her attention to detail and her ability to transform spaces into captivating experiences. Despite her busy schedule, Tanya enjoys traveling all around the globe.
Monica Salgado
HR/Office Manager/Safety Administrator/AFSO
Monica commenced her career in the maritime industry in 2016, stepping into the role of HR Administrator. Through her unwavering dedication and expertise, she quicky advanced to the Human Resource Generalist/AFSO position, where she continued to thrive. With extensive experience in Talent Acquisition, Monica has played a vital role in filling numerous positions in our industry. Additionally, she is part of the Environmental Health and Safety department as a Safety Administrator. Monica finds fulfillment in attending job fairs, networking, proving candidates with job opportunities, and generating fresh ideas to enhance the employee experience. Known for her warm personality and unwavering passion, Monica tackles each task with enthusiasm and commitment. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, maintaining an active lifestyle at the gym, and finding tranquility by the beach.
Ryan Hatter
NDT Level III Inspector
Ryan is a Quality Inspector with 10 years experience in the ship repair industry. A graduate of Newport News Shipyard’s Apprentice Program, his career focus has been Nondestructive Testing. Ryan is certified for Level III Visual Inspection (VT), Level II Liquid Penetrant Inspection (PT) and Level II Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT). Before hanging up his parachute to spend more time with his wife and child, Ryan was an avid skydiver.
Jeremy Roberts
QA Inspector
Jeremy Roberts is a Quality Inspector with more than 8 years experience in repair and inspection of Navy and commercial ships. He is certified for Level II Visual Inspection (VT), Level II Liquid Penetrant Inspection (PT) and Level II Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT). A local to the Hampton Roads area, Jeremy spends his off time with his wife and 4-year-old son kayaking, swimming and surfing.
Shanon Walker
Quality Assurance Support Specialist
Shanon Walker joined AIT in 2023 as our Receptionist/Administrator. With a solid foundation in customer service and administrative support, Shanon seamlessly manages various tasks while ensuring top-notch service. Her enthusiasm for embracing new challenges and collaborating across departments is truly remarkable. Shanon’s commitment to assist and support others shines through in every interaction. Recently, she has been promoted to the role of Quality Assurance Specialist, a testament to her dedication and potential for growth. We eagerly anticipate witnessing her continued success and contributions to our team.
David Spain
Team Lead
David “Dino” Spain started his career at Advanced Integrated Technologies in March 2013 as a proficient Pipefitter who is known for his accountability, skills, and loyalty. With almost 25 years in the Naval Shipbuilding Industry, he credits his family’s Military history of protecting and serving our country for his work ethic. With his vast knowledge of fitting for AIT, there is never a problem, only solutions. As a Team Lead, he will continue to guide and advance the pipe shop in the right direction for success in our many endeavors.
Kelvin Buie
Project Manager
A Project Manager at Advanced Integrated Technologies for 4 ½ years now. He is a retired Navy Veteran with 22 years of Shipboard Engineering experiences which resulted in certifications in Valve Repair, AC&R and Elevator Maintenance. Also, has received a college degree from Thomas Edison State University in Applied Science. His goal is to continue to be a valuable asset in Advanced Integrated Technologies ability to grow. He enjoys playing cornhole bring his spare time.
Joshua Wilburn
Jr Planner & Estimator
I Spent most of my earlier employments as a Commercial driver driving long hauls and local. I got my Commercial Drivers License in 2009. In 2018 I worked for a concrete manufacturing plant where I did plant maintenance and repairs on various mechanical and electrical systems. I joined AIT marine in 2019 as a mechanic.
I was promoted to team lead in 2020. I lead a crew on over 35 successful CMAVS. I have since moved into the shop where I took over two positions as a tool issue clerk and receiving/ inventory specialist, in this position I’ve always tried to go above and beyond to make sure the crews on the waterfront had what they needed and had as little downtime as possible.
I’m a devoted husband to my beautiful wife Emily. We enjoy camping and exploring the outdoors. We have two dogs that love to camp with us. Another big hobby of mine is cooking. I love to work with my hands and learn all that I can.
Dustin Gipson
Project Manager
Dustin Cade Gipson, 30 years old. Served in the United States Navy from '16-20' Honorably discharged as a Machinist Mate 2nd class. From there I went on to become a Hydraulic Service Specialist working with a hydraulic ship repair company and assisting in vital repairs to several U.S. Naval vessels spanning from Japan, Hawaii, California, Washington state and Virginia. Following my separation from that company I found my new position in January of 2024 with AIT as a Non-Complex project manager.
Nick Gloria
Team Lead
As the son of a retired US Naval office, with a background in ship repair welding, fabrication, and structural repairs/upgrades, working on systems critical to our national defense is not only a profession but a point of pride for Nick. Nick has lived in Virginia Beach pretty much his whole life. Before getting into the ship repair Nick was involved in the jewelry industry for over 10 years and still does repair works for friends and family members. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his three children, collecting and listening to vinyl records, surfing and fishing.
Bryan Edmonds
Team Lead
They say every decade or two there comes a man and no ordinary man but one that possesses great knowledge, strength, and leadership for the job. In November of 2020 AIT found that man his is Edmonds, Bryan Edmonds. The legend of Mr. Edmonds started in 2013 when he sailed as a merchant marine for MSC.
Mr. Edmonds is a true example of someone who came from rags to riches as he started from the bottom buffing and moping decks on the ship. Eager to learn more Mr. Edmonds quickly moved up and became one of the best deck hands on the ship, but knew he needed a trade to further his career. In 2016 he decided to join MHI as electrical helper and in 4 years became one the best first-class electricians on the waterfront.
Eager and ready for a new challenge, he joined AIT where he continued to his electrical brilliance but also expanded his knowledge of other trades. After countless successful job completions Three years into his AIT tenure, he moved up into management and has become one of the best team leads in the fleet. Not resting on his laurels, the fire, passion, and eagerness to learn more still burns inside him as the legend of Mr. Edmonds grows and continues.
Steve Martin
Planning & Estimating Manager
Stephen has been a dedicated member of our team since coming onboard in December of 2023, bringing with him 20 years of experience in the industry making him an invaluable addition to the Planning and Estimating department. Since coming onboard at AIT Stephen has worked to foster interdepartmental relationships that are essential to every phase of the process from planning and estimating to the successful execution of production work.
Stephen has worked hand in hand with members of the senior management team as well as the production staff to ensure that the cost estimates he prepares are complete, accurate and most importantly profitable. Outside of his professional life Stephen enjoys spending time with family and friends and engaging in various activities including hunting, fishing, and playing golf. When he isn’t taking part in those activities, he is working on DIY projects around the house or immersing himself in a good book.
