(OTTAWA) — The Chamber of Marine Commerce is pleased to announce that retired U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Michael N. Parks has joined the chamber as special adviser.
In his new role, Parks will be working with the chamber to promote the distinct economic, environmental and safety advantages of the bi-national Great Lakes-St. Lawrence shipping industry, in addition to increasing awareness and advising on the industry’s maritime-related policy and issues.
Before his retirement in 2013, Parks was the commander of the Ninth Coast Guard District, which spans the five Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Seaway and parts of the surrounding states, including 1,500 miles of international border. Previously, he was the deputy director of operations for headquarters of the United States Northern Command, with responsibility including land, maritime and homeland defense air operations as well as defense support of civil authorities.
Parks is a 1982 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy where he received a bachelor of science degree in government. He has a master of public administration degree from George Washington University and a master of science in national security strategy and policy from the National War College in Washington, D.C.
Parks, a career “cutterman," has more than 12 years of sea duty while serving aboard six different Coast Guard cutters, commanding four of those ships. Parks’ awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, four Legions of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, six Coast Guard Commendation Medals, two Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbons and various service and unit awards.
The Chamber of Marine Commerce is a bi-national association that represents more than 150 marine industry stakeholders including major Canadian and American shippers, ports, terminals and marine service providers, as well as domestic and international shipowners.
