Inland Construction and Engineering
Engineering the Nation’s Waterways with Precision and Purpose

Inland Construction and Engineering, Inc. (ICE) has led heavy civil and marine construction for over three decades, delivering unmatched quality and precision. Whether it’s a naval base or a remote coastal structure, ICE consistently demonstrates its ability to tackle complex infrastructure projects with precision, deliver on time, stay within budget, and adhere to the highest safety and technical standards.

Founded in 1994 by Michael Hobbs Jr., a third-generation contractor, ICE’s journey began with a landmark contract with the U.S. Coast Guard, a relationship that continues to thrive. This early partnership laid the foundation for the company’s expansion, enabling it to execute high-profile projects across the U.S., from the West Coast to the Canadian border, and beyond, as far south as Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

An impressive portfolio includes work with major federal agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Navy, NASA, U.S. Coast Guard. As well as a number of large commercial clientele. Its expertise spans mission-critical infrastructure projects, including Bridge and pier rehabilitation, dredging, shore protection, and Aids to Navigation (ATON) structure replacement. These high-stakes projects demand technical mastery, flexibility, and in-depth knowledge of engineering and marine environments.

ICE believes that delivering results is more than just a business goal. The company prides itself on the clarity and reliability of its service. As the saying goes, “We do what we say, when we say we’ll do it.” This dedication to transparency and accountability has earned ICE the trust of clients across the public and private sectors, and it’s why they remain a preferred contractor for demanding marine and civil infrastructure projects.

Responding Under Pressure, Coast to Coast

Flexibility and rapid response times are essential in construction and engineering, particularly in the marine and heavy civil sectors, where unforeseen challenges can arise quickly. ICE’s ability to mobilize and execute under pressure is one of the key reasons it has earned a reputation as one of the most dependable contractors in the field.

A perfect example of this is ICE’s performance following Hurricane Michael’s devastation in 2018. The storm caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including boat ramps and marine access points in Bay County, Florida. ICE was called upon to restore these critical assets under tight timelines. The company mobilized its resources rapidly and worked tirelessly to restore these vital connections for residents and businesses.

Similarly, ICE’s operations in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, demonstrated its expertise in handling politically and logistically complex environments. When the U.S. Navy required a major pier restoration project in the region, ICE took on the challenge and completed the work efficiently and to the satisfaction of all parties involved.

“We are a company of action,” says Sam Stone, General Manager of ICE. “No matter where we’re called, no matter how urgent the need, we train our crews to deliver with precision, professionalism, and speed.”

Another notable example of ICE’s responsiveness was its work for the U.S. Coast Guard in Galveston Bay, Texas. The company secured a contract to build Range Structures for the Coast Guard, demonstrating the continued trust ICE has earned over the years.

Equipment-Driven Agility

A cornerstone of ICE’s ability to respond quickly and efficiently is its robust inventory of specialized equipment. Its fleet includes everything necessary for coastal and inland operations, providing ICE with the flexibility to take on diverse and technically demanding projects. This extensive inventory supports day-to-day operations and empowers ICE to tackle various complex challenges in various environments.

Tugboats and barges are essential for marine transport and offshore logistics, enabling ICE to perform operations in even the most remote and challenging environments. These vessels ensure that materials, equipment, and personnel can be moved across water safely and efficiently, providing access to areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach. This capability is vital for projects that require mobility and flexibility in coastal and offshore locations.

High-capacity cranes are indispensable for performing heavy lifts over water and rough terrain. These cranes are particularly suited for constructing marine infrastructure and large-scale repairs, offering the lifting power necessary to move heavy materials and equipment. Their versatility makes them an essential tool in challenging work sites where traditional cranes might struggle, ensuring that ICE can handle large-scale projects with ease and precision.

Pile driving systems and sheet pile equipment are crucial for foundation work and constructing marine structures that withstand harsh environmental conditions. These systems are designed to provide the strength and stability required for structures such as piers, docks, and offshore platforms, where the forces of nature can create significant challenges. With these tools, ICE can ensure its structures remain secure and durable even in extreme conditions.

Hydraulic dewatering systems play a key role in underwater operations, particularly in projects such as pool renovations or any work requiring water removal. These systems are engineered to efficiently clear water from submerged areas, enabling crews to work safely and effectively in environments where water is constantly challenging. Their application is essential for any project where a dry working environment is necessary to complete tasks successfully.

Concrete and epoxy systems are vital for cathodic protection and structural restoration, helping preserve marine structures’ integrity. These materials prevent corrosion and damage from the harsh saltwater environment, ensuring that essential infrastructure can withstand the test of time. By applying these systems, ICE can extend the lifespan of critical assets, protect them from the elements, and reduce maintenance costs in the long run.

Underwater diving and welding teams are essential for inspecting and repairing submerged structures, such as piers, docks, and underwater pipelines. These teams are trained to carry out complex tasks in challenging underwater conditions, ensuring that large infrastructure projects remain safe, functional, and up to industry standards. Their expertise is indispensable when addressing issues that cannot be reached by traditional methods, making them an integral part of ICE’s capability to execute projects efficiently.

Access to such a comprehensive range of equipment allows ICE to pivot quickly in response to urgent or specialized needs. Whether the project requires heavy lifting, underwater welding, or shoreline protection, ICE’s vast inventory of tools and machinery ensures that it can meet any demand with agility and precision. This flexibility is key to maintaining ICE’s competitive edge and delivering exceptional service across various projects.

Looking Ahead: Growth and Innovation

As the construction and engineering industries evolve, ICE positions itself to take advantage of new opportunities while maintaining its commitment to quality and client service. The company’s long-term vision includes expanding geographically and in terms of service offerings while enhancing its engineering and design capabilities.

“The marine construction sector is evolving rapidly,” says Michael Hobbs Jr., President of ICE. “There is growing demand for climate resiliency projects, port modernization, and coastal defense investments. We aim to meet these demands, especially along the Gulf and Eastern Seaboard.”

ICE has been investing in new technologies and systems to support this expansion. These include advanced sonar mapping for underwater inspections, diver video systems for real-time project monitoring, and upgraded safety and quality management systems. By embracing these innovations, ICE ensures that it remains at the forefront of the industry, delivering state-of-the-art solutions while adhering to the highest safety and environmental responsibility standards.

One of the company’s most significant upcoming projects is a multi-year contract with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, where ICE will perform extensive structural repairs on five historic bridges in the Florida Keys. The project involves marine and upland scopes of work and is slated to be completed in early 2027. The complexity and scale of this undertaking are a testament to ICE’s growing capacity to handle large, multi-faceted infrastructure projects while maintaining its hallmark of precision and timeliness.

Trust Built on Generations of Experience

ICE’s technical capability and unwavering commitment to trust, integrity, and service are at the heart of its success. As the company approaches its 30th anniversary, its relationships with clients and partners have grown stronger. With more than 100 projects completed for government agencies and private contractors, ICE has proven that it is more than just a construction company.

Looking ahead, ICE is committed to providing its clients with the best possible service, whether by managing complex marine projects, offering cutting-edge engineering solutions, or delivering superior craftsmanship on every job.

With a legacy built on results, a fleet of specialized equipment and a team that operates with precision and purpose, ICE is ready to face the challenges of tomorrow. From historic restoration projects to complex military infrastructure, ICE remains a trusted partner for clients across the U.S. and beyond, shaping the future of our nation’s waterways, one project at a time.

As ICE looks to expand its reach, invest in new technologies, and continue its tradition of excellence, the company stands ready to take on the next generation of infrastructure challenges with the same commitment to quality that has defined its first 30 years.