MICHAEL RUGGLES

Co-Founder

Michael Ruggles is a co-founder of Sabalo Marine and an experienced professional in the inland marine and crew boat industry. Prior to founding the company, he spent more than five years managing and operating a fleet of crew boats that supported major dredging and marine construction companies throughout the Gulf Coast.

At Sabalo Marine, Michael oversees the company’s daily operations, including fleet management, vessel maintenance, crew coordination, captain recruitment and hiring, and project logistics. He also plays a key role in business development, working closely with clients and industry partners to identify new opportunities and strengthen Sabalo Marine’s presence across the region.

With a strong background working around vessels and operations on the water, Michael brings practical knowledge and a hands-on understanding of crew boats, their performance, and the demands of marine operations. A God-fearing man who values integrity and hard work, he is known for his reliability, respect for others, and commitment to doing things the right way—both professionally and personally. His leadership and dedication to safety, service, and strong relationships continue to guide Sabalo Marine’s growth along the Gulf Coast.

DAVID BLACKBIRD

Co-Founder

David Blackbird is Co-Founder of Sabalo Marine, where he helps guide the company’s long-term strategy, capital planning, and growth initiatives as the company expands its fleet and capabilities supporting dredging and marine construction projects across the Gulf Coast.

Blackbird is also the Founder and Managing Partner of Sabalo Ventures, an Austin-based investment firm he launched in 2024 following a successful 25-year career in commercial real estate. Prior to forming Sabalo Ventures, he co-founded the Austin office of Stream Realty Partners in 2006. Under his leadership, the office grew from a two-person startup into one of Central Texas’ largest commercial real estate platforms with more than 100 employees and a portfolio exceeding 30 million square feet of institutional-quality office and industrial properties.

Blackbird brings decades of experience in capital allocation, business development, and building founder-led companies. During his career in commercial real estate, he directly oversaw more than $1.5 billion in development and investments spanning office, industrial, and mixed-use projects.

Blackbird has been recognized among the Texas 100 most impactful people and has been named one of Austin’s most influential professionals. He serves on the Executive Council of the University of Texas Real Estate Center and on the Advisory Board of the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, and he is a regular guest lecturer at the University of Texas McCombs School of Business.

A native of Austin, Blackbird is an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He and his wife have two daughters and a son.

BRANDON OTWELL

Port Captain

Brandon Otwell is an experienced Port Captain and Marine Engineer with a strong background in vessel operations, maintenance, and maritime safety. With extensive knowledge of marine systems and coastal navigation, he oversees vessel performance, engineering reliability, and operational standards to ensure safe and efficient operations on the water.

Brandon brings a hands-on approach to his work, combining technical engineering expertise with practical maritime leadership. His experience includes vessel management, mechanical systems oversight, and coordinating safe port and offshore operations.

TANYA ISTRE

Controller

Tanya Istre serves as Controller for Sabalo Marine, overseeing the company’s financial reporting, compliance, and day-to-day accounting operations. With oilfield industry experience dating back to 2001 and additional service industry experience since 2014, she brings a strong understanding of financial management within operationally intensive businesses.

At Sabalo Marine, Tanya supports financial strategy, budgeting, and operational accounting while helping ensure the company maintains strong financial discipline as it continues to grow. She also contributes to strategic planning and business development initiatives that support the company’s long-term success along the Gulf Coast.

SHANNON DuBOIS

Director of Safety & Human Resources

Shannon DuBois serves as Sabalo Marine’s Director of Human Resources and Safety, where she leads the company’s Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) programs and oversees workforce management across all operations. With nearly two decades of experience in safety leadership, regulatory compliance, and risk management, Shannon has supported organizations in highly regulated industries including oil and gas, industrial services, refining, and marine construction.

At Sabalo Marine, Shannon is responsible for developing and implementing safety policies, ensuring regulatory compliance, coordinating training programs, and promoting a strong culture of safety throughout the organization. Her experience working with project teams, leadership, and regulatory agencies helps ensure Sabalo Marine maintains the highest standards of safety, accountability, and operational integrity.