Decatur Marine expands with new office in New Orleans

DECEMBER 14, 2018 — Spurred by demand for its U.S. Coast Guard Third Party Organization (TPO) services, Decatur Marine Audit & Survey recently announced it would expand its operations with the opening of a new office location in New Orleans.

The new office will be headed by Kevin Wakefield (photo inset), who was promoted to Operations Manager. Wakefield began his career for Decatur Marine in TSMS Operations.

“Kevin’s offshore and inland waterway experience, as well as his ongoing engagement with the U.S. tug and towboat community and the U.S. Coast Guard continues to remain a substantial benefit to Decatur’s staff and clients,” said Christian Mollitor, Managing Director of Decatur Marine. “He has also been instrumental in assisting Decatur Marine implement our Subchapter M operations and ensuring clients have the assistance and resources they need to obtain their COIs,” added Mollitor.

“As the U.S. tug and towboat industry adjusts to the new Subchapter M regulatory environment, the official promotion of Kevin and addition of an office in New Orleans, allow us to better serve our clients, better interact with our inspectors, and continue our role as one of the top TPOs in the United States.”

Wakefield said, “Decatur Marine was founded last year as the only company to operate specifically as a Subchapter M TPO. We have now issued 10 TSMS certificates and have oversight of over 50 towing vessels in District 8. Our move to the heart of District 8 in New Orleans will allow Decatur Marine more flexibility for conducting audits while continuing to provide the best customer support in the largest towing vessel region in the United States.”

As a Decatur Marine auditor, Wakefield will conduct all TSMS management and vessel audits in accordance with the requirements of Subchapter M. He will provide customer support and maintain client relationships in the largest towing vessel District in the United States, and will continue to conduct and develop courses in regards to Subchapter M.