JEANERETTE — Metal Shark Aluminum Boats received one of Louisiana Economic Develop-ment’s highest honors this week: the Lantern Award, for its excellence in manufacturing.

The Jeanerette-based boat manufacturer has experienced tremendous growth during the past year, earning several large government contracts and expanding its facility to include 20,000 square feet of work space at a time when other boat manufacturers in the area announced layoffs, one even closing its doors.

The recognition came after Iberia Industrial Development Foundation President and CEO Mike Tarantino, nominated the company during the selection process.

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He said Metal Shark, which many people in the area might also know as Gravois Boats, is an Iberia Parish success story.

“Metal Shark is a really clear example of small local business doing big things,” Tarantino said. “We are really proud of their accomplishments.”

Tarantino said the state is divided into eight regions and Metal Shark was chosen as the winner of Region 8.

The award honors winners for their “excellence in manufacturing and community involvement.”

LED Secretary Stephen Moret commended Metal Shark and other winners for their “achievements and contributions to Louisiana’s economy.”

“Their innovation, their workforce and their products strengthen the foundation of our manufacturing base and enhance our competitiveness,” he said.

Donna Gravois said the Metal Shark team was thrilled to be recognized.

She said it was also a treat to attend the award ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion Tuesday night.

“We’ve come a long way,” she said, referring to a time 20 years ago when Jimmy and Carol Gravois were making their first handmade aluminum boats under the carport of Jimmy Gravois’ home.

“Our expansion has given us a new building to work in, which frees up one of our shops so we can expand it and have everything indoors.”

The company has become competitive in the market for government contracts securing orders from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army and various foreign governments. The growth has prompted the Gravoises to shift away from manufacturing the recreational boats they built their reputation on over the years, but Donna Gravois said the company would like to find a way to incorporate both lines as it bolsters its staff and continues expanding its facilities.

LED launched the Lantern Award program in 1979 and has recognized more than 240 businesses in that time.

Winners receive a New Orleans-based Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights handmade lantern.