MOBILE, Ala. – The American Equity Underwriters, Inc., (AEU) the leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance for waterfront employers, has named the 2025 members of its Loss Control Advisory Council. This distinguished group of safety professionals is dedicated to addressing the industry’s most pressing workplace safety challenges.

Representing a broad spectrum of the maritime sector, these experts bring hands-on experience, innovative solutions, and a shared commitment to protecting workers. Their insights will help AEU anticipate emerging risks, enhance safety programs, and drive meaningful improvements across the industry. Council members serve a two-year term, volunteering their expertise to advance best practices and foster safer, more resilient workplaces.

“Maritime employers face evolving safety challenges and addressing them requires more than compliance. It takes proactive leadership,” said Jimmy Burgin, AEU Senior Vice President and Director of Loss Control. “The 2025 AEU Loss Control Advisory Council brings together some of the most knowledgeable professionals in the industry. Their expertise will be instrumental in shaping forward-thinking safety strategies that protect workers and strengthen operations.”

2025 AEU Loss Control Advisory Council

• Bo Ristic – Vice President, HSEQ, Morrison
• Cliff Roberts – Vice President, QHSE, Conrad Industries, Inc.
• Ken Creel – Safety Manager, Mare Island Dry Dock, LLC
• Tim Sheppard – Corporate Director of Loss Control, The Cooper Group
• Chad Comeaux – Senior VP, HSSE/Corporate Services, United Production & Construction Services, Inc.
• James Bailey – Corporate Safety Director, Enstructure
• Jeffery Threadgill – Vice President of Safety, Rio Marine
• Joey Garza – Safety Manager, McCabe, Hamilton, Renny
• Forrest Ray – Director, Environment, Health & Safety, Manson Construction Co.
• Katie Bearden – EH&S Manager, Saildrone, Inc.
• Dylan Norfleet – HSE Director, Designation Person Ashore, Curtin Maritime
• Russell Landry – CEO/President, Nationwide Skilled Trades

About The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.

The American Equity Underwriters, Inc. (AEU), an Amwins company, serves as program administrator for American Longshore Mutual Association Ltd., a group self-insurance fund authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor for waterfront employers in all 50 states under the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Based in Mobile, Ala., AEU provides best-in-class services including claims handling, loss control, longshore consulting and other support. For more information, call (866) 238-8754 or visit amequity.com. Follow AEU on Facebook and LinkedIn.