President ’ s Message
RESPONSIVE , RELEVANT , RESILIENT
AWO entered 2021 determined to move “ forward to better ” – to build on the progress made and lessons learned during a turbulent 2020 , and to apply the insights shared by members during a year of deep listening to shape a brighter future for our industry and our association .
As we navigated a triple-demic of new COVID variants , market disruptions , and extreme weather events , we strove to be responsive , relevant , and resilient in the face of continued uncertainty and disruptive change . With the steady leadership of the Board of Directors and the engagement of members large and small , from all regions and all industry sectors , we worked to :
■ Listen deeply to members , forge consensus among diverse points of view , and deliver results and resources that respond to member concerns and priorities ;
■ Stay focused both on managing the challenges and seizing the opportunities before us in the present to promote safety , efficiency and the bottom line ; and look around the bend , working proactively to create the conditions for our industry ’ s future success ; and ,
■ Act with agility to take on , learn from , and move forward in the face of challenges , both foreseen and unforeseen .
Our commitment to being responsive , relevant and resilient also inspired and informed the member-led , memberdriven process of developing AWO ’ s new Strategic Plan , a centerpiece of our work in 2021 . The plan , which reflects input from members across the full range of our operationally diverse industry , is the dynamic blueprint that will guide our work in 2022 and beyond as we strive to live our mission to serve as the tugboat , towboat and barge industry ’ s advocate , resource and united voice for safe , sustainable and efficient transportation on America ’ s waterways , oceans and coasts .
I hope that as you review the highlights of our work together over the past year in the pages of this Annual Report , you are inspired and energized to join us in tackling the challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead . As always , it is an honor and a privilege to work with you and for you .
Stay healthy and safe ,
Jennifer A . Carpenter President & CEO
2021 ANNUAL REPORT