The American Waterways Operators - Annual Reports 2019 | Page 2

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
WE ARE AWO
I am proud that in our 75th year we chose to
honor the work of our predecessors by ensuring
that AWO remained the industry’s safeguard
against the efforts of those who would seek to
legislate or regulate us out of business. In 2019
we protected the Jones Act, fought against the
erosion of federal preemption and supported
our industry-wide safety initiatives. We also
prepared ourselves for the fight ahead with the
promotion of Jennifer Carpenter to serve as
President & CEO.
When asked why a company should be a member of AWO,
I look around at the membership who so generously give their
time and intellect to achieve our goals, and at the staff who
work tirelessly on our behalf, and say, “How can I not be part
of this great team and part of such a necessary fight?!”
AWO is the membership – AWO is us. Only through our
engagement can we ensure that our companies and industry
continue to serve the American people for another 75 years,
and beyond.
Thank you.
Scott Merritt
Chairman of the Board
Representing Foss Maritime Company