What's Happening?
The inland waterways industry is actively working to raise awareness about career opportunities within the sector, as highlighted during the FreightWeekSTL 2026 panel. Key figures such as Errin Howard, executive director of We Work the Waterways, and Dawn
Lopez, vice president of Marketing and Public Relations for Associated Terminals and Turn Services, emphasized the importance of connecting students and job seekers with maritime careers. The panel discussed the industry's primary challenge of a lack of awareness about the career paths available in maritime, which led to the creation of We Work the Waterways. This organization aims to educate young people, educators, and career seekers about the opportunities in the industry. The panel also highlighted the collaborative efforts of over 250 companies and organizations nationwide to strengthen the workforce pipeline and ensure the future of the industry.
Why It's Important?
The focus on workforce awareness in the inland waterways industry is crucial for sustaining and growing this vital sector of the U.S. economy. By increasing awareness and access to maritime careers, the industry can attract a new generation of skilled workers, which is essential for maintaining the efficiency and competitiveness of the U.S. freight network. The collaboration among various industry partners, including barge companies, engineering firms, and educational institutions, underscores the collective effort to address workforce challenges. This initiative not only supports the maritime industry but also contributes to the broader economic landscape by ensuring the smooth movement of goods and supporting manufacturing and agriculture.
What's Next?
The inland waterways industry is expected to continue its efforts to raise awareness and connect more individuals with career opportunities. This includes expanding partnerships with educational institutions and community colleges to integrate maritime career pathways into their programs. The industry will likely focus on enhancing its outreach efforts to reach more students, parents, and educators, ensuring they understand the diverse career options available. Additionally, the industry may explore new technologies and innovations to further attract young talent and adapt to the evolving demands of the freight and logistics sectors.
