In 1992, Richard Merhige founded Advanced Maintenance Enterprises and later in 2002 Advanced Mechanical Enterprises. He attended the State University of New York Maritime College, earning a bachelor degree in marine engineering, continuing his education in Systems and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic and George Washington Universities. He furthered his specialized training, earning a USCG License as a Second Assistant Engineer Steam & Motor, Unlimited Horsepower and a certification as a Vibration Analyst. In addition, AME is recognized as an external specialist for condition monitoring by the American Bureau of Shipping.
Before starting his own companies, Merhige worked for such prominent organizations as American Transport Lines, Westinghouse, David Taylor Naval Research Center and Booz Allen & Hamilton as an Engineer. His career saw him traveling throughout the United States and abroad conducting sea trials, performing major equipment overhauls and installations.
Mr. Merhige, through Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, is a proud member of the following organizations:
Christine is the driving force behind AME’s business development by strengthening ties with existing clientele and cultivating new ones. In this capacity, she oversees and spearheads all public relations, marketing, promotions, events, corporate citizenship, partnerships, customer care and human resources to promote company expansion on all levels. She is also in charge of office administration and the day-to-day operations of the front office.
In addition to her position at AME, she is President of m3 Events+, an event and marketing company. Through m3 Events+, Christine provided business development consulting for several prominent South Florida businesses with world-wide presences. She has worked with numerous high-profile non-profits including ARC Broward, Camillus House, Easter Seals, Switchboard Miami and ECOMB, assisting with fundraising and events. Additionally, her expertise in public affairs saw her playing an active role in many notable political campaigns in Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County.
Teresa provides support for Business Development activity through AME’s advertising, marketing and public relations initiatives as a Marketing Manager. Additionally, she writes the copy for AME’s marketing materials and corporate documents while also offering support to accounting and general office administration. Prior to joining AME, Teresa worked with m3 Events+ for over five years as well as various clients in the hospitality, medical, education and non-profit industries.
Stephen brings over 20 years of rotating machinery experience to AME as a Manager/Service Engineer. He is an ASNT-TC-1A Level I Vibration Analyst and is highly skilled in the optical and laser alignment of rotating and reciprocating machinery.
Stephen’s extensive background in the marine industry has given him a thorough knowledge of the removal and reinstallation of onboard ship equipment such as water jets, main engines, reduction gears, generators, running gear, bow thrusters, vessel piping and plumbing systems. He has over 15 years of experience in the service, removal, installation and repair of Wartsila seals. Additionally, he is trained in the operation of machining equipment, welding and fitting.
Prior to joining AME, Stephen was Foreman at some of South Florida’s largest marinas and shipyards.
Andy is one of AME’s Managers/Service Engineers and is responsible for onsite vibration surveys, analysis, laser/optical alignment and project management. He provides predictive, preventative and corrective maintenance solutions through his vast experience. He has specialized training and advanced certifications which include; Level II - ISO category III Vibration Analysis, Field Dynamic Balancing Certification, MCA Y3 Chief Engineer STCW 95 A-III-2 (Management), Institute of Corrosion (UK) – Cathodic Protection Technician, NVQ Level 3 in Electrical & Mechanical Maintenance, High Power Switchboard Operators Certificate as well as a NVQ Level 3 in Leadership & Management.
Andy’s specializations include the computerized precision laser alignment of large drive trains; propulsion and pumping machinery; the precision optical alignment of marine shafting arrangements, in addition to vibration analysis and diagnostics.
Prior to joining the AME team, Andy was Chief Engineer on several yachts and proudly served in the British Royal Navy as an engineer for 12 years.
Thom plays an integral role at AME as Service Coordinator. He is responsible for the scheduling of all jobs and acts as a client liaison. Additionally, Thom assists with invoicing, creating estimates, purchasing, as well as office and shop administration. Prior to joining AME, Thom managed his family-owned business for 10 years.
Susan joined the AME Team in 2011 as a Bookkeeper. She assists with all aspects of accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, financial and tax reporting. Susan brings to the table 46 years of bookkeeping experience, 30 years setting up companies and 16 years in banking. She’s also attended Graphic Arts School, taken courses in Trust Functions in Banking and Seminars in Banking, Estate Planning and Bookkeeping.
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