(CLEVELAND) — Thomas Rayburn has joined the Lake Carriers’ Association in the newly created position of director of environmental and regulatory affairs. Rayburn is well versed in the economic and environmental benefits of Great Lakes shipping, having spent a number of years with the Great Lakes Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard’s Ninth District.
“I am very pleased to welcome Tom to the LCA team,” said James H.I. Weakley, president of the association. “The challenges facing the industry right now are significant, and how we resolve issues such as regulation of ballast water and restoring ports and waterways to their proper depth will decide the future of Great Lakes shipping. Tom brings not only deep knowledge of our industry to the table, but also that important ability to achieve a balance between economic and environmental considerations.”
“I am looking forward to a long career with LCA,” said Rayburn. “LCA is held in high regard by both legislators and regulatory agencies and I intend to strengthen those relationships. Great Lakes shipping is a tremendous economic asset, and the environmental benefits of waterborne commerce are equally impressive. Full utilization of the Great Lakes Navigation System is a win-win situation for both our region and the nation.”
Prior to joining LCA, Rayburn was program manager for EnSafe Inc. Before that he spent seven years with the Great Lakes Commission, rising to senior project manager, and a year as assistant branch chief, marine safety response, for the U.S. Coast Guard’s Ninth District. He has over 25 years' experience in government and industry consulting.
Rayburn received his bachelor of science degree in geosciences from Purdue University. He has done postgraduate studies in environmental science and engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He and his wife, Laura, live in Shaker Heights, Ohio.
The Lake Carriers’ Association represents 16 American companies that operate 56 U.S.-flag vessels on the Great Lakes and carry the raw materials that drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel, aggregate and cement for construction, coal for power generation, as well as salt, sand and grain. Collectively, these vessels can transport more than 115 million tons of cargo per year.
More information is available at www.lcaships.com.
