Jennifer Carpenter: First Woman to Lead American Maritime Partnership

The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) has announced the election of new leadership, marking a watershed event in the organization's history. Jennifer Carpenter takes over as president, becoming the organization's first female leader. Sara Fuentes will serve as Vice President during the two-year term, while James "Jim" Weakley will serve as secretary and treasurer.

Jennifer, who has spent 33 years with the American Waterways Operators lobbying for America's inland waterways, took delight in directing the sector toward a resilient future. She emphasized the industry's 650,000 men and women's dedication to protecting the supply chain, minimizing reliance on China, and supporting national security.

Sara Fuentes, AMP's former Secretary and Treasurer, will expand her responsibilities to improve government affairs outreach while remaining Vice President of the Transportation Institute. Fuentes reiterated her commitment to promote a fleet constructed, owned, and crewed in the United States for national security and economic development.

Jim Weakley, a veteran of the Coast Guard and President of the Lake Carriers Association, will bring his considerable knowledge to the national scene. He emphasized the Great Lakes' importance in conveying 90 million tons of freight yearly, sustaining American industry and infrastructure. Weakley promised to focus on industrial reform and to work with AMP leaders to strengthen American security and prosperity.

AMP, which is made up of numerous maritime sector players, emphasizes the importance of a robust domestic maritime industry in protecting national security by lobbying for the preservation of the Jones Act, which has been in place for over a century.