The hull of the 639-foot vessel is complete with the final bow section set in mid-August.

Shipyard workers have been focused on the following areas throughout the late summer and early fall, according to The Interlake Steamship Company, the first U.S. company to build a bulk carrier on the Great Lakes in more than 35 years.

• Installation of the loop-belt casing for the unloading system is under construction.
• Various sections of the ship are being painted, including the ballast tanks and hull exterior, which will also include midship and aft-draft markings. Thruster tunnel installation is occurring, as well as ongoing work on the rudder steering equipment.
• Extensive work continues in the engine room on mechanical equipment, as well as piping, electrical and ventilation systems.

M/V Mark W. Barker is expected to launch this fall and be underway carrying essential cargoes on the Great Lakes in the spring of 2022.