About the American Waterways Operators

The American Waterways Operators

The American Waterways Operators (AWO) is the national association representing the inland and coastal tugboat, towboat and barge industry. For over 60 years, the American Waterways Operators has defined and advocated industry views with policymakers and federal officials. AWO has also promoted a greater understanding of the domestic waterborne transportation industry's safe and environmentally sound contribution to the U.S. economy.

Organized in Washington, D.C. in 1944 as the national trade association representing the inland barge and towing industry, AWO expanded its mission and scope in 1969 to include the coastal sector of the industry. AWO is now comprised of more than 400 member companies, including bulk commodities transporters; shipdocking and harbor services operators; fueling and bunkering, and lightering services operators; shipyards; and affiliated services.

Four standing committees within AWO - the Inland Dry Sector, the Inland Liquid Sector, the Coastal Sector, and the Harbor Services Sector - manage issues of concern to those industry segments. A Common Issues Council addresses issues that cross sector committee boundary lines. The Public Affairs Committee advises the association on media and public relations strategies in support of AWO's regulatory and legislative initiatives.

AWO is governed by an elected body of 52 members who serve on the Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for policy approval and the development of complementing strategies. AWO's Headquarters staff is divided among the Legislative, Regulatory, Public Affairs, Safety and Administration departments. AWO's regional offices in Washington, St. Louis, Seattle, New Orleans and Washington, D.C. manage state legislative and regulatory issues.