Our History

From humble beginnings to exciting innovations, delve into Karl Senner's evolution and history.

Our History

In 1967, Karl sold the first REINTJES gearbox in North America to the inland operator LeBeouf Towing of Houma, LA for the vessel M/V Mary R. He quickly made a good name for himself by selling reliable products and providing dependable support to his customers.

1967

By 1972, he secured the exclusive REINTJES sales and service distributorship for all of North America. Over the years, Karl Senner, Inc. was able to grow and gain a large portion of the US commercial marine market through the company’s dedication to its customers and to the products it represents.

1972

Karl Senner, Inc. became the exclusive North American distributor for BERG Propulsion. 

1982

Karl Senner, LLC sells its first BERG CPPs in N. America to Gulf Fleet onboard the M/V Gulf Service.

1983

Karl Senner established a service presence in Seattle, WA to support its customers on the West Coast.

1986

Karl Senner, Inc. became the exclusive distributor and service provider for Steerprop.

2000

Karl Senner, Inc. sold the first Steerprop units in North America to Seacor. 

2001

In 2006, Ralph and Mike Senner took over the operations of Karl Senner Inc. 

2006

Ralph Senner became the sole owner of Karl Senner, LLC. 

*Photo Circa 1990 at the REINTJES Factory in Hameln, Germany  working on WVS 2232 Gearboxes for the US Navy.

2012

BERG sold to Caterpillar Inc.  Karl Senner continues to support all BERG products sold by Karl Senner to this day.

2014

Karl Senner, LLC adds a service location in Paducah, KY to support Inland Waterways operations in the region.

2014

Karl Senner, LLC introduces Azimuth Thrusters to the Line Haul Industry.

2016

Karl Senner, LLC adds a service location in Houston, TX. 

2017

Karl and Christopher Senner took over the operations of Karl Senner, LLC.

2022 also marked the 50 anniversary of Karl Senner, LLC.

2022

Today: 2024

Karl and Christopher continue to operate under their grandfather’s philosophies: remaining dedicated to the product, customer support, parts availability, and employees. Karl Senner, LLC has since established a strong presence throughout Inland Waterways, Offshore Markets, ATBs, Ferries, Harbor/Ship Assist vessels, Fishing vessels, Dredges, Pleasure Craft, Government Vessels, among other markets.