#USA #Arlington #American Waterways #Patrick Sutton #tugboat industry

American Waterways Operators Elects New Leadership

On May 19, 2025, the American Waterways Operators (AWO) held its Spring Convention and Annual Membership Meeting, culminating in a significant leadership transition. After voting, members selected Patrick Sutton from American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. This marks a critical moment for the AWO, which advocates for the tugboat, towboat, and barge industry across the nation.

New Leadership and Responsibilities

In addition to Sutton’s election as Chairman, Matt Woodruff, Vice President of Public Government Affairs at Kirby Corporation, was appointed as Vice Chairman. The position of Treasurer has been retained by Brian Hughes from Hughes Bros. Inc., indicating a continued trust in established leadership. Sutton takes over from Kelly Teichman, Executive Chairman of TT Marine, who was recognized for her substantial contributions to the industry.

AWO President and CEO Jennifer Carpenter lauded Sutton’s leadership capabilities, stating, "Patrick Sutton is a strong, articulate leader whose experience will be critical to advancing our industry’s interests." Carpenter emphasized the importance of cooperation among member leaders to bolster the tugboat and barge sector, which plays an essential role in America’s economy and security.

Navigating Challenges Ahead

In his first address as Chairman, Sutton underlined the need for the industry to adapt to various challenges, including political changes and economic fluctuations. "We must operate as a unified voice in our communications with the Trump Administration, Congress, and the Coast Guard," he remarked, stressing the need for collaboration among industry stakeholders.

Sutton pointed out that safety should remain the primary concern for everyone involved in the maritime industry. He stated, "Our obligation extends beyond our operational tasks; we must ensure our mariners return home safely to their families." He called for continued advocacy for the Jones Act, a foundational piece of legislation crucial for maintaining a robust American maritime sector. Sutton's commitment to fostering innovation and regulatory improvement was evident when he said, "We must create an environment that promotes safety, efficiency, and innovation, rather than stifling it."

Engaging Members for Future Growth

Sutton emphasized that the success of AWO relies on the active engagement of its members. "No matter our capabilities, AWO cannot be fully effective without maximum member engagement. That’s my challenge to all of us as we move forward," he stated. His approach signals a desire to enhance participation and collaboration within the organization, aligning with the overall goals of growth and efficiency.

The AWO represents a vital ecosystem of logistical operations, contributing significantly to American commerce by moving massive quantities of goods across the nation’s waterways. Each year, the organization’s vessels transport over 665 million tons of commerce, reinforcing the importance of this industry to the nation’s economy.

Looking Ahead

As Sutton prepares to lead the American Waterways Operators, the collective focus is directed towards ensuring safety and advocating for policies beneficial to the industry. The upcoming year will be fundamental for navigating through the complexities of today’s world while aiming for sustainable growth and positive storytelling about the maritime sector.

For more insights into the developments within the tugboat and barge industry, you can contact the American Waterways Operators at (703) 841-9300 or visit their official website at www.americanwaterways.com.