®
A Letter from Our CEO
CEO Adele Hapworth addresses attendees of the 2024 ALMA Conference in Palm Beach, Florida, celebrating another exciting year of partnership.
At AEU, everything we do is aimed at helping employers, in partnership with their brokers, protect their people, control costs, and strengthen their operations. That mission shaped our focus in 2024 and continues to guide how we serve our customers.
Over the past year, we made meaningful investments to improve the experience of working with AEU. We grew our team across every department and expanded key tools and technology. Each of these tools reflects a broader goal of delivering more value, more efficiently, at every interaction.
• SmartPay, our online payment platform, continues to offer a seamless, convenient way to report payroll and manage premium payments.
• Nexus, our new self-audit platform which launched in 2025, gives customers more control and efficiency in managing their premium audits.
• AEU Academy, our new online learning platform, provides on-demand access to safety, leadership, and claims resources.
• PowerBI aggregates our data across all our platforms to deliver better analytics to meet your needs.
We also remained focused on outcomes, both for injured workers and for our customers. Here are just a few examples of how our Claims team drove results for our members in 2024 while delivering quality care:
• A serious hand injury could have resulted in long-term disability and more than $100,000 in surgical costs. By working with our provider partners, we secured immediate access to a top-tier specialist and coordinated a bundled surgical plan that reduced costs by 70% and preserved hand function for the worker.
• A shoulder injury claim for a lasher initially projected to cost nearly $900,000 was resolved through proactive medical management and a return-to-work strategy, getting the injured worker back to full duty and saving $650,000.
• In a complex disability claim, we utilized unmanned surveillance to document the injured worker’s functional capacity. This led to the successful negotiation of a resolution of $175,000 — well below the $562,000 demand — and helped avoid long-term indemnity exposure.
• In a hearing loss claim valued at over $100,000, we used medical evaluations to reduce the claim’s value and then prior audiograms to shift the majority of the remaining liability to the DOL Special Fund — resulting in a final payment of just over $10,000 and total savings of more than $96,000.
Across all departments, we focused on delivering measurable improvements where they matter most. Our subrogation recoveries and exposure savings totaled $5.7 million. We reduced our year-over-year average pharmaceutical spending per claim by 25% compared to the industry average of 10%. We’ve expanded to more than 1,000 medical provider partnerships, each selected for their ability to deliver high-quality, responsive care. We also expanded State Act claims handling to 24 states and enhanced safety resources for labor providers, a growing part of our ALMA membership.
This year’s report features images submitted by ALMA members in our first “Our Industry at Work” photo contest. These photos highlight the scale and significance of the work happening across the maritime industry, and we’re proud to support it every day.
Thank you for the trust you place in AEU.
Adele Hapworth Chief Executive Officer
The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.
About AEU
For 28 years, we've partnered with waterfront employers to reduce their costs and have more control over their long-term success.
Boat tankermen walk down a series of tank barges during operations, accompanied by Midwest Tankermen, Inc. Person in Charge (PIC), Pedro Gonzalez. In cold and challenging weather, their role remains critical to ensuring the safe and efficient handling of liquid cargo. It’s a demanding job that requires focus, expertise, and attention to safety, no matter the conditions on deck. Midwest Tankermen, Inc. has been an ALMA member since 2020.
Services
Everything we do is built to protect what matters most: your people, your business, and your ability to keep moving forward.
At St. John’s Ship Building in Palatka, Florida, construction progresses on the WINDEA crew transfer vessels, purpose-built to support the offshore wind industry. These aluminum catamarans are designed for safe and efficient transport of personnel and equipment to and from wind turbines. With precision fabrication and a focus on sustainability, St. John’s Ship Building plays a key role in strengthening America’s offshore renewable energy infrastructure.
St. John’s Ship Building has been an ALMA member since 2011.
SERVICES
Loss Control
We work with our customers to strengthen their safety programs, offering resources and support to empower them to take control of losses. Our Loss Control team is committed to helping waterfront employers create safer work environments, reduce injuries, and mitigate losses. We partner with employers to identify risks, implement practical safety solutions, and provide guidance tailored to their unique operations.
Through on-site consultations, incident trend analysis, and a shared understanding of safety goals, we deliver straightforward, actionable approaches to prevent incidents and build a culture of safety together.
Highlights from 2024
Conducted 720 member engagements, providing direct safety support
Added two Loss Control Managers to strengthen our team
Provided input on OSHA’s proposed heat injury prevention rule
Developed a sample safety policy for labor providers in the shipyard industry
Created a new employee safety orientation for labor providers in the shipyard industry
Loss Control Advisory Council
The Loss Control Advisory Council is a group of experienced safety professionals selected from ALMA’s membership. This Council collaborates to explore solutions to shared challenges and highlight emerging technologies in the safety arena. It also provides input on resources to help strengthen safety programs across ALMA.
Current Council Members
James Bailey Enstructure
Katie Bearden Saildrone, Inc.
Chad Comeaux United Production & Construction, Inc.
Ken Creel Mare Island Dry Dock, LLC
Joey Garza McCabe, Hamilton & Renny Co., Ltd.
Russell Landrey Nationwide Skilled Trades
Forrest Ray Manson Construction Co.
Dylan Norfleet Curtin Maritime Corp.
Bo Ristic Morrison
Cliff Roberts Conrad Industries, Inc.
Tim Sheppard The Cooper Group
Jeffrey Threadgill Rio Marine
As of April 2025
A Stevens Towing Co., Inc. team member performs torch cutting during steel repairs in a vessel’s hull structure. Working in tight quarters with heavy material, the job demands focus, experience, and strict adherence to safety protocols. It’s one example of the craftsmanship and technical ability that supports vessel maintenance and keeps maritime operations running smoothly.
Stevens Towing Co., Inc. has been an ALMA member since 2008.
2024 AEU Safety Award winners gather at a celebratory luncheon during the AEU National Forum in Charlotte, North Carolina, in May 2025.
A safe workplace doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built through commitment and action.
At AEU, we believe that a strong safety culture protects workers, strengthens companies, and drives long-term success. That’s why each year we recognize our customers with the strongest safety cultures in the business.
AAA United States, Inc.
Amherst Madison, Inc.
Amplify Energy Corp.
Austal USA, LLC
Barton & Gray Mariners Club, LLC
Basin Marine, Inc.
Bay Bridge Texas, LLC
BWC Terminals
Carlisle & Bray Enterprises
Cabrillo Boat Shop
Collins Machine Works
Conrad Shipyard
Continental Heavy Civil
Donjon Marine Co., Inc.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.
Elite Workforce, LLC
Employer Solutions Staffing Group, LLC
Evansville Marine Service, Inc.
Global, a 1st Flagship Company
Gulf South Services, Inc.
Gunderson Marine & Iron
Hughes Bros., Inc.
Hyde Shipping Corporation
Integrity Staffing Services, Inc.
JAG Marine Group
Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Foundation
Manson Construction Co.
Marine Group Boat Works, LLC
Marisco, Ltd.
Middle River Marine, LLC
Motive Power Marine, LLC
Nationwide Skilled Trades, Inc.
Prime Time Coatings, Inc.
Quigg Bros., Inc.
Resilient - USA, LLC
Rio Marine
Sause Bros., Inc.
South Florida Container Repair, LLC
Svendsen's Bay Marine The Quality Companies, LLC Tidal Transport & Trading USA, Ltd. TREO Staffing
Mile 183, LLC; TT Mile 237, LLC a division of James Marine, Inc.
Union Maintenance Corp.
White River Marine Group, LLC
Claims
We handle claims with care and efficiency, helping injured workers return to work while keeping the process smooth and costs under control. We know that a workplace injury affects more than just the bottom line — it impacts people. Our in-house Claims Specialists and Nurse Case Managers work closely with employers, injured workers, and medical providers to ensure timely, high-quality care that leads to the best possible outcome for all parties.
Through strong provider partnerships and a holistic approach to medical management, we help manage costs without compromising care. From initial reporting to resolution, our focus is on resolving claims quickly and cost-effectively while ensuring optimal care for the injured worker.
Highlights from 2024
Launched a post-claim survey to capture employer feedback
Expanded State Act claims handling to 24 states, strengthening capabilities in California with nine licensed individuals
Strengthened our team by adding four new Claims Specialists
Consistently exceeded Department of Labor benchmarks for Timely First Reports of Injury and Timely Payments
Expanded to more than 1,000 medical partnerships
2024 Claims by the Numbers
A commercial diver from Logan Diving & Salvage performs precision drilling and anchoring to install protective armoring over a fiberoptic cable system laid across the reef.
Using hydraulic tools and working in challenging underwater conditions, the team ensures the cable is securely stabilized while minimizing impact to the surrounding marine environment. This work exemplifies the blend of technical expertise and environmental stewardship required for critical subsea infrastructure projects.
Logan Diving & Salvage has been an ALMA member since 2014.
Underwriting
Underwriting at AEU is a collaborative process that considers the full picture. Our experienced underwriters partner with our Claims Specialists, Loss Control Managers, and Managing Directors to understand each risk in context, ensuring every rating decision is fair and performance-based. We work closely with brokers and employers, maintaining open dialogue about how exposures, claims, and safety efforts factor into pricing.
Our team takes a flexible, creative approach to structuring programs, offering multi-year, loss-sensitive, and guaranteed cost options that reward strong performance and support long-term value.
Highlights from 2024
$16.7 million in premium contributions returned to ALMA members for favorable claims performance
Made significant progress toward developing a self-audit platform, launching in 2025, which gives members more control, visibility, and efficiency in managing premium audits
Increased adoption of SmartPay, enabling more customers to report payroll and make premium payments seamlessly and securely online, improving convenience and reducing administrative burden
The NH3 Kraken, operated by Amogy, represents a breakthrough in maritime decarbonization as the world’s first ammonia-powered tugboat. By converting ammonia into hydrogen on board, the vessel generates zero carbon emissions during operation, paving the way for cleaner, more sustainable propulsion technologies in the maritime industry.
This pioneering project reflects Amogy’s commitment to innovation and the role advanced energy solutions can play in the future of commercial shipping and inland waterway transport.
Amogy has been an ALMA member since 2023.
Consulting and Education
Helping people do their jobs better and safer is at the heart of what we do. Through hands-on education and practical training, we work directly with employers to strengthen teams, support safer operations, and improve decision-making. We deliver guidance that’s timely, practical, and built for real-world work.
In addition to our in-person consulting and events, AEU Academy offers flexible online learning, giving employees access to relevant training anytime, anywhere. From safety resources to leadership development through AEU LEAD, our offerings meet employers where they are, with tools that build confidence and knowledge at every level.
Highlights from 2024
Hosted two AEU National Forums in Charleston, South Carolina, and New Orleans, Louisiana
Hosted two virtual USL&H and MEL continuing education classes for insurance professionals
Launched AEU Academy, an online learning platform for our customers
Released a series of e-learning modules focused on improving safety performance in shipyards and marine cargo handling environments
Launched AEU's YouTube channel, featuring the Longshore Insider podcast
4.9 Average educational event satisfaction rating Attendees of educational events hosted by AEU 591
On-site training deliveries conducted by AEU LEAD
Learners enrolled by AEU LEAD in supervisor skills training
Learners enrolled in AEU Academy 408 E-learning modules published to AEU Academy
At Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.’s Nelson Street shipyard, shipbuilders gather for a final briefing ahead of a U.S. Coast Guard vessel launch.
These pre-launch meetings ensure alignment on safety, timing, and coordination, which are all critical steps in delivering complex government vessels. The team’s focus and craftsmanship reflect Eastern’s longstanding role in strengthening national maritime capabilities through quality shipbuilding.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. has been an ALMA member since 2001.
Industry Leadership
By participating on industry boards and committees, our team is actively shaping the future of our industry and supporting those we serve.
Earl Burak, Claims Supervisor
Vice President, Longshore Claims Association
Leslie Castillo, SVP, Director of Marketing and Customer Experience
Member, Communications Committee, Shipbuilders Council of America
Woody Collins, Senior Loss Control Manager
Member, Safety Committee, Shipbuilders Council of America
Ryan LeVeque, Claims Supervisor
Board of Directors, Longshore Claims Association
Ray Ruiz, Senior Loss Control Manager
Member, National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH), OSHA
Will Scheffler, SVP, Director of Claims
Member, Client Advisory Board, Origami Risk
Board of Directors, Longshore Claims Association
Member, Advisory Board, Annual Longshore Conference
Rob Stuardi, Managing Director
Ex-Officio Past Chairman, Partners Committee, Shipbuilders Council of America
Kayla Tortorich, SVP, Director of Claims Medical Management
Member, Advisory Board, Best In Class Medical Doctors (BICMD)
Brad Whitney, CSP, Senior Loss Control Manager
Member, NFPA Marine Chemist Qualification Board
Our Programs
Coverage designed to protect workers, reduce risk, and keep business moving.
Catalyst Marine Engineering, LLC performs structural modifications to a pontoon barge in Seward, Alaska, using laser-guided alignment to ensure precision.
Working in snow-covered conditions with limited daylight, the team stays focused on accuracy and safety. This project reflects the technical skill and commitment required to support marine infrastructure, even in harsh environments.
Catalyst Marine Engineering, LLC has been an ALMA member since 2014.
We've got waterfront employers covered.
A single policy isn’t enough for a company operating in the maritime industry. The coverages we offer combine to safeguard employers from workplace injuries, liability, and operational risks.
U.S. Longshore and Harbor (USL&H) Workers' Compensation
Required for employers who have employees who work on or near navigable waters, but do not qualify as seamen.
State Act Workers' Compensation
Required for employers with land-based employees, such as office staff or warehouse workers.
Maritime Employers' Liability (MEL)
Covers employer liability for seamen classified under the Jones Act, offering protection against negligence claims.
Ocean Marine Insurance
Protects maritime businesses from first- and third-party risks related to vessels and marine operations.
USL&H
American Longshore Mutual Association
What is the Longshore Act?
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (Longshore Act) is a federal law that provides for the payment of compensation, medical care, and vocational rehabilitation services to employees disabled from on-the-job injuries that occur on or near¹ the navigable waters of the United States.
The Longshore Act also provides for payment of survivor benefits to dependents if the work injury causes, or contributes to, the employee’s death. These benefits are typically paid by the self-insured employer or by a private insurance company on the employer’s behalf through the employer's USL&H coverage. The term “injury” includes occupational diseases, hearing loss, and illnesses arising out of employment.
The Longshore Act covers employees in traditional maritime occupations such as longshore workers, ship-repairers, shipbuilders or ship-breakers, and harbor construction workers. The injuries must occur on the navigable waters of the United States or in the adjoining areas, including piers, docks, terminals, wharves, and those areas used in loading and unloading vessels. Non-maritime employees may also be covered if they perform their work on navigable water and their injuries occur there.
The Longshore Act also extends to include other types of employment. Employees covered by these extensions are entitled to the same benefits, and their claims are handled in the same way as Longshore Act claims. The following are the extensions of the Longshore Act: the Defense Base Act, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, and the Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentalities Act.²
1 More specifically, adjoining areas customarily used in the loading, unloading, repairing, or building of a vessel.
2 Source: U.S. Department of Labor website (dol.gov)
Program Overview
Coverages
United States Longshore and Harbor
Workers’ Compensation Act
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act
− Defense Base Act
Plans Include
First dollar/Guaranteed cost
Single or multi-year programs
− Loss-sensitive plans
− Deductible
Excess over qualified self-insurance
Requirements
A minimum of 10% of the insured’s payroll must be USL&H exposure (unless incidental-only)
Target Classes
– Ship Builders
– Stevedores
– Terminal Operators
– Barge Repairers
– Marine Construction
– Ship Repairers
– Steamship Agents
– Luxury Yacht Builders
– Coal Docks
– Offshore Industries
– Skilled Labor Providers
Minimum Premium
$10,000
About the American Longshore Mutual Association, Ltd.
Since 1997, ALMA has been authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor to provide coverage for its members' liabilities under the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (USL&H).
ALMA also offers employers’ liability protection, including incidental maritime employers’ liability.
Employers with relevant exposure may apply for ALMA membership through their insurance broker, who will coordinate with AEU, the program administrator for ALMA.
As program administrator, AEU provides underwriting, claims handling, loss control, and other services to help ALMA members effectively manage their workers’ compensation liabilities. AEU’s expertise ensures that members receive industry-specific risk management guidance and dedicated support, fostering safer workplaces and better outcomes.
For more information about the Longshore Act, visit longshoreinsider.com. The Longshore Insider contains hundreds of articles written by industry experts at AEU, covering topics such as coverage nuances, interesting court cases, claims handling guidance, frequently asked questions, and more.
Program Affiliates
Program Manager
The American Equity Underwriters
Management, Ltd.
Clarendon House, 2 Church Street
Hamilton, HM 11, Bermuda
USL&H
American Longshore
Principal Representative
Artex Risk Solutions (Bermuda) Limited
Wessex House, 3rd Floor, 45 Reid Street
Hamilton, HM 12, Bermuda
Registered Office
Conyers Corporate Services (Bermuda) Limited
Clarendon House, 2 Church Street
Hamilton, HM 11, Bermuda
Auditor
KPMG
Crown House, 4 Par-la-ville Road
Hamilton, HM 08, Bermuda
Loss Reserve Specialist and Approved Actuary
Casualty Actuarial Consultants, Inc.
7000 Executive Center Drive, Suite 312
Brentwood, TN 37027
Trustee
U.S. Bank NA
800 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55402
Investment Manager
Sage Advisory Services, Ltd. Co. 5900 Southwest Parkway Building 1, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78735
Investment Consultant
Raymond James 21 West I-65 Service Road North Mobile, AL 36608
ALMA Board of Directors
Michael A. Adams, Jr.
The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.
Sumner G. Adams
Norton Lilly International, Inc.
David L. Brock
The Cooper Group of Companies, Inc.
James D. Burgin
The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.
Daniel T. Conrad
Conrad Industries, Inc.
David J. Doyle, JP
Conyers Corporate Services (Bermuda)
Limited (Retired)
Elizabeth A.C. Durrant
BF&M Insurance Group (Retired)
Matthew B. Guard
McCabe, Hamilton & Renny Co., Ltd.
Adele S. Hapworth
The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.
ALMA Member Advisory Council
Serving as a voice for the entire ALMA membership, helping AEU align products and services with member needs.
John A. Martone, Jr.
The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.
Ross Barker
Danos, LLC
Randy Cooper
VLS Environmental Solutions
Kelly Curtin
Curtin Maritime Corp.
Taylor Grant
Walashek Industrial & Marine, Inc.
Devon Grennan
Triton Marine Construction Corp.
Keri Jenkins
T. Parker Host
Martin Pierce
HKA Enterprises, LLC
Garrett Rice
Master Boat Builders, Inc.
Jorge Rivera
S23 Holdings, LLC
Allen Tappan
Waterfront Services Co.
Mike Tolin
National Maintenance and Repair, Inc.
ALMA Financial Highlights
For the year ended December 31
Extracted from the Audited Financial Statements
Fishing vessels Pacific Prince and Westward I, operated by Westward Fishing Company, are docked and ready for the next phase of operations. Built for efficiency and durability, these vessels support the company’s work in harvesting and processing wildcaught Alaska Pollock. With a focus on sustainability and reliability, Westward Fishing Company plays a vital role in one of the nation’s most important industries.
Westward Fishing Company has been an ALMA member since 2015.
is State Act?
State Act workers' compensation coverage provides required benefits for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses while working on land or within a state’s jurisdiction. It applies to land-based employees who are not considered “seamen” under maritime law.
State Act Workers' Compensation
Governed by individual state workers’ compensation statutes, this coverage ensures that eligible workers (such as a warehouse employee injured while loading cargo or an office worker who develops a repetitive stress injury) receive medical care, disability income, rehabilitation support, and, in the case of fatal injuries, death benefits for dependents.
Program Overview
Availability
Nationwide except for in monopolistic states (ND, OH, WA, and WY)
Plans Include
– First Dollar/Guaranteed Cost
– Large Deductibles
Limits
– Federal Acts: Statutory
– Employer’s Liability: $1M
Minimum Premium
$10,000
Carriers
– Great American Insurance Group
– PMA Companies
Target Classes
– State Act Boat Building & Repair
– Marinas
– Machine Shops
– Warehousing
– Welders & Pipefitters
– Electricians
– Painters
– Communications Repair
– Engine Repair
– Heating & A/C Contractors
– Refrigeration Repair
– Architects and Engineers
– Fire Extinguisher Servicing
– Carpentry (no roofing or residential construction)
– Labor Providers with long-term placements
Dwayne Seprish II, Supervisor at East Bay Mechanical, oversees work aboard the USS Lassen at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Jacksonville, Florida.
As a proud supporter of the U.S. Navy, East Bay Mechanical plays a key role in maintaining and upgrading naval vessels to ensure operational readiness.
East Bay Mechanical has been an ALMA member since 2017.
Additional Coverages
Our partnerships with leading carriers help broaden coverage and deliver greater peace of mind.
Maritime Employers' Liability
Maritime Employers' Liability (MEL) provides essential protection for employers whose employees are injured or become ill while working aboard vessels not owned or operated by the employer. This coverage is specifically designed for maritime employees, including crew members and contractors, who are temporarily assigned to work on non-owned vessels, such as a technician working aboard a customer’s ship or an employee falling ill while on a chartered vessel.
MEL covers employer liability under the Jones Act, which permits injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence, as well as obligations under general maritime law, including maintenance and cure. This type of coverage fills a critical gap when state workers’ compensation or USL&H policies do not apply.
Plans Include Deductible
Ocean Marine Insurance
Ocean Marine Insurance products protect maritime businesses from first and third-party risks related to vessel operations, marine services, and waterfront activities. They address exposures like bodily injury, property damage, and legal liabilities that arise in day-to-day maritime operations. Whether operating vessels, repairing ships, or managing terminals, these coverages offer essential protection tailored to the complexities of maritime work.
Coverages
– Hull & Machinery
– Protection & Indemnity
– Commercial Marine Liability
– Ship Repairer’s Legal Liability
– Marine Terminal Operators Liability
– Wharfinger’s Legal Liability (aka Landing Dock Owner’s Liability)
– Stevedore’s Legal Liability
– Charterer’s Legal Liability
– Additional Excess and Bumbershoot Coverages
Carrier
Starr Indemnity & Liability Company, a member of Starr Insurance Companies
Target Classes
– Marine Terminals
– Marine Contractors
– Fleeting Areas
– Shipyards
– Ship Repair Contractors
– Tug & Barge Fleets
– Boat Builders
Requirements
Vary by coverage
As part of its coastal restoration service line, Danos crews deploy artificial reef structures, known as "Cajun Coral", designed to promote marine biodiversity and restore underwater habitats. Working from a barge off the Louisiana coast, the team uses precision lifting and placement techniques to install reef units safely and efficiently.
These specially engineered structures mimic natural reef formations, providing shelter and spawning grounds for native marine species. The project reflects Danos’ commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability in the Gulf region, blending innovation, conservation, and deep local knowledge to help coastal ecosystems recover and thrive.
Danos, LLC has been an ALMA member since 2023.
Industry Expertise
Our experience across maritime industries allows us to provide support that’s informed, practical, and built for the job.
Helideck installation underway at Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.'s shipyard in Port St. Joe, Florida. Precision lifts like these require expert coordination and engineering to safely position the massive structures. This work highlights Eastern’s growing capabilities and its continued investment in complex maritime construction projects on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. has been an ALMA member since 2001.
Ship and Boat Building, Repair and Conversion
Building, repairing, and converting vessels takes skill, precision, and endurance. Welders, machinists, painters, and riggers work in all weather environments where every detail matters. Whether it’s a large commercial vessel or a small workboat, the job requires specialized craftsmanship and the ability to work with heavy equipment, tight deadlines, and unpredictable conditions.
We help employers keep projects moving while protecting their workforce, offering targeted guidance on hot work safety, confined space procedures, and reducing injury risks during heavy fabrication and vessel launch phases.
At Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.’s Port St. Joe Shipyard, crews prepare the Long Island ferry for delivery to the New York City Department of Transportation.
Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, the vessel serves the Fire Island route, carrying up to 300 passengers and 26 vehicles. Built with ADA-compliant features and energy-efficient systems, the Long Island reflects Eastern’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and supporting essential public transportation through modern ferries.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. and Elliott Bay Design Group have been ALMA members since 2001 and 2021, respectively.
General Marine
Shoreside marine work covers a range of essential jobs, from dockside support to equipment operation and facility management. These roles involve moving machinery, heavy lifting, and adapting to changing conditions.
We support employers across the maritime industry, helping them address workforce needs, maintain compliance, and ensure a safe working environment through best practices while working on or near the shoreline.
Metal Shark’s High Speed Maneuverable Unmanned Surface Vessel (HSMUSV) is a 21-foot craft built for remote surveillance and precision strike support in maritime defense operations. Outfitted with advanced autonomy, the vessel can deploy systems like loitering munitions or unmanned aerial vehicles.
With extended range and no onboard crew required, the HSMUSV offers a reliable, cost-effective solution for modern naval missions where persistence, adaptability, and safety are essential.
Metal Shark has been an ALMA member since 2016.
Marine Cargo Handling
Moving cargo across docks and terminals requires coordination, efficiency, and attention to detail. Whether handling bulk materials, heavy machinery, breakbulk cargo, or containers, longshore workers operate cranes, forklifts, and specialized equipment in environments that demand precision and timing.
We work with marine terminals, stevedoring operations, and freight handlers to support their workforce and help them manage the complexities of the job, focusing on reducing struck-by incidents, improving traffic control plans, and ensuring safe lift planning and cargo handling procedures.
Crews from CemBulk Services clear the hold of a bulk cement ship, using heavy equipment to remove residual material and prepare the vessel for its next load. The process requires precision and coordination in a confined, dust-heavy environment — an essential step in maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards in bulk cargo handling.
CemBulk Services (Dann Ocean Towing) has been an ALMA member since 2014.
Marine Construction, Building and Installation
Building on and around the water presents distinct challenges. Whether driving piles, installing bulkheads, operating heavy equipment, or diving for underwater repairs, crews work in dynamic environments that require skill and adaptability. These projects demand careful planning, technical expertise, and an understanding of changing conditions.
We partner with marine construction employers to help them keep operations running smoothly — prioritizing hazard assessments, fall protection on temporary structures, and safety coordination for multi-crew projects.
In Tampa, Florida, a CemBulk Services team member conducts routine servicing and greasing of an unloader arm, ensuring the equipment remains in peak operating condition.
Preventive maintenance like this is critical to minimizing downtime and keeping cargo operations running safely and efficiently. Working at height with the proper fall protection, the crew brings focus and care to every detail of the job.
CemBulk Services (Dann Ocean Towing) has been an ALMA member since 2014.
Oil & Gas
Offshore work requires endurance, technical skill, and a disciplined approach to safety. Whether operating a drill floor, maintaining production equipment, or managing crane lifts, workers must be highly trained and prepared for demanding conditions.
We work with offshore employers to provide the expertise and support needed to keep crews protected and operations efficient. This can include insight on procedural discipline, stop-work authority culture, and reducing exposure to highrisk tasks through targeted training.
At Danos’ facility in Amelia, Louisiana, a team member inspects Cajun Coral reef structures. These reef units are produced using advanced manufacturing techniques designed to replicate natural reef textures and promote marine life colonization.
The precision and care behind each piece reflect a blend of engineering innovation and environmental purpose, bringing scalable, sciencebacked solutions to coastal restoration efforts across the Gulf. Danos’ investment in this technology underscores their commitment to sustainability and the future of marine ecosystems.
Danos, LLC has been an ALMA member since 2023.
Labor Providers
Supplying skilled workers to maritime and industrial job sites requires careful oversight. Welders, crane operators, and dock workers step into different worksites with unique equipment, processes, and expectations.
Whether providing temporary labor or long-term placements, labor providers must balance workforce readiness with compliance and safety. We support these employers in a constantly changing environment by ensuring proper onboarding, verifying task-specific competencies, and promoting safe transitions between job sites.
A trainee participates in Bollinger Shipyards’ Ship Fitter Bootcamp, an intensive workforce development program designed to prepare the next generation of skilled shipbuilders.
Held at the company’s facilities in Mississippi, the program combines handson training with a strong focus on safety, precision, and foundational trade skills. By investing in early-stage talent and creating structured pathways into maritime careers, Bollinger is strengthening both its workforce and the broader U.S. industrial base, ensuring that quality and safety remain at the forefront of every build.
Bollinger Shipyards has been an ALMA member for a total of 10 years.
Memorable Moments from 2024
For the sixth year in a row, AEU was named to the list of the Best Places to Work in Alabama by Best Companies Group and Business Alabama.
Members
Members
Senior Loss Control Manager Jason Lake speaks at a luncheon held by Upper River Services, LLC, an ALMA member since 2013.
of our Underwriting, Marketing and Loss Control teams take a break to pose while assembling Mardi Gras-inspired gifts for customers.
The 2024 AEU National Forum was held in two locations – Charleston, South Carolina, in the spring and New Orleans, Louisiana, in the fall – with strong attendance at both events. Attendees participated in general sessions and industry-specific breakout discussions designed to address their operational needs.
of our Underwriting and Loss Control teams represent AEU at APM Terminals' Global Safety Day in November 2024.
Mike Jernigan, Content Marketing Manager and host of the Longshore Insider podcast, interviews guests about safety and operational topics.
Joe White, Director of AEU LEAD, conducts a workshop focused on developing the leadership skills of front-line supervisors.
AEU’s Mobile office underwent a major renovation in 2024, including the addition of a new breakroom designed to accommodate our growing team. The updated space also allows us to host larger events, such as the opening reception for SCA’s October 2024 meeting and a summer reception for local customers and business partners. Overlooking the Port of Mobile and the Mobile River, which is home to dozens of AEU customers, the office serves as a daily reminder of the impact and importance of the work we do.
The AEU team gathers for a group photo during our annual employee meeting and holiday party in December.
Attendees of the 2024 ALMA Conference, held in Palm Beach, Florida, gather for the annual group photo. This year's photo was taken during the "Platforms and Polyester" 1970's-inspired theme night. The 2024 conference was our largest ever at 328 attendees.
Industry friends old and new enjoy getting together at AEU's annual reception at the International WorkBoat Show, held at The Chicory.
During the 2024 AEU Summer of Service, our teams provided much-needed support to non-profit organizations in the Mobile and Metairie communities. In Mobile, we partnered with Love All Food Pantry, Prodisee Pantry, The Fuse Project, and Feeding the Gulf Coast. In Metairie, we supported a STEM library initiative and the Arc of Greater New Orleans.
A shipfitter at Marine Group Boat Works, LLC operates a telehandler lift to move equipment across the yard. Safe and efficient equipment handling plays a vital role in supporting vessel construction, maintenance, logistics, and daily operations within the San Diego shipyard.
Marine Group Boat Works, LLC has been an ALMA member since 2014.
Photo: Continental Heavy Civil Corporation
(ALMA member since 2017), West Lake Park Segment 4 restoration project in Broward County, Florida