The American Waterways Operators - Annual Reports 2018 | страница 2

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
HISTORIC Achievements,
UNCEASING Commitment
T
he business of the tugboat, towboat and barge industry is moving America’s cargo safely and efficiently
on the nation’s waterways. Indeed, we are an economic driver. No matter where we operate or what we
transport, our ability to provide jobs, power the economy and support homeland security hinges not just
on healthy markets, but also on sound public policy and proactive safety leadership.
On these fronts, 2018 was a year of historic and lasting achievements for our industry – achievements that would
not have been possible without your dedication to AWO.
As an organization intent on forging common ground among its diverse and varied members, AWO’s
commitment to tackling daunting advocacy challenges and delivering results led to enactment of the Vessel
Incidental Discharge Act; successful defense of the Jones Act against well-funded and organized opponents;
elimination and streamlining of outdated regulatory requirements; and a host of policy achievements that
position our businesses to thrive for the long haul.
Moreover, it was AWO’s commitment to elevating our industry as a safety leader that led to milestone
accomplishments that demonstrate and reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding life, the environment and
property. This was certainly highlighted by the implementation of Subchapter M without disruption to maritime
commerce.
AWO Vision
The American Waterways Operators is the
national advocate for the U.S. tugboat, towboat
and barge industry, which serves the nation as
the safest, most environmentally friendly, and
most economical mode of freight transportation.
AWO Mission
AWO represents the people who own or operate
tugboats, towboats and barges serving the rivers,
coasts, Great Lakes, and harbors of the United
States. As the leading voice on domestic maritime
issues, AWO promotes the industry’s value
to the nation as a driver of the U.S. economy
that provides family-wage jobs and moves the
nation’s freight safely while reducing air and
water pollution, relieving traffic congestion, and
protecting homeland security.
AWO Values
AWO members:
Photo credit: Crowley Maritime Corporation
■ ■ Operate our companies and vessels in an
ethical manner.
■ ■ Care for our employees and the public by continuously improving
the safety of our operations and the professionalism of our people.
■ ■ Work to protect and improve the quality of our nation’s air and
water, as stewards of the environment.
■ ■ Supply efficient and economical solutions to the transportation
needs of our customers and the nation.
■ ■ Work together for the betterment of the industry and encourage
the engagement of companies of all sizes, from all regions and
operational sectors, in the work of the association.
These achievements were made possible by persistent, creative advocacy and the strong relationships that
AWO has forged with Congress, the Coast Guard, other government stakeholders and a diverse array of coalition
partners. These successes – which are critical to the long-term health and
viability of our industry – would not have come to fruition without AWO. Our
organization adeptly navigated the political and bureaucratic complexities of
the public policy arena; expertly conveyed information to bolster our position
on a variety of issues; and, without fail, relentlessly refused to ever give up even
in the face of overwhelming odds.
Undoubtedly, the successes of 2018 reflect AWO’s commitment to being the
voice for members of all types and sizes. In essence, AWO goes above and beyond
to ensure that our diverse perspectives inform not only AWO advocacy and
safety priorities, but also the care with which AWO husbands our hard-earned
resources. As someone from a smaller company, this commitment is
particularly meaningful to me.
I am grateful for the privilege of serving as your Chairman.
Thank you for the continued opportunity to work alongside you
to advance our nation’s prosperity, security and quality of life.
CHAIRMAN TOM MARIAN
Buffalo Marine Service
■ ■ Work collaboratively with government and other stakeholders
to promote safety, environmental protection, security, and
transportation efficiency.
2018 ANNUAL REPORT A YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT
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