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Parker Towing's New VP Zebulon Duco-Moore: A Leader Ready to Navigate Changes

Update Leadership Transition at Parker Towing: A New Era Begins Parker Towing Company, based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has made a significant leadership change by promoting Zebulon “Zeb” Duco-Moore to vice president of operations and senior port captain. This decision underscores the company's commitment to leveraging experienced professionals within its ranks, enhancing its operational effectiveness in the competitive barge industry. A Journey Through Service and Commitment Duco-Moore’s journey with Parker Towing dates back to September 2000, when he first joined as a deckhand aboard the MV Alison Haun. Over the years, he has worked his way up the ladder, showcasing his dedication and skill. By 2004, he was piloting vessels and eventually became a relief captain, a role he fulfilled until 2012. After a period of gaining additional industry experience away from Parker Towing, he returned in 2018 as port captain and has since served as senior port captain. “I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working with Zeb since I started at Parker Towing, when he was a 2nd engineer on the Thelma Parker II more than 20 years ago,” commented Charles “Chas” Haun III, Parker Towing’s executive vice president. Haun's praise highlights a career filled with growth and a commitment to teamwork—a significant aspect of Parker Towing's operational culture. Why Duco-Moore’s Promotion Matters Under Duco-Moore's leadership, Parker Towing aims to continue evolving as one of the largest family-owned barge lines in the U.S., with a fleet that includes over 400 open and covered hopper barges and 30,000-barrel tank barges. The company plays a crucial role in containing the nation’s logistical operations along rivers, handling a vast range of cargo while also ensuring safety and environmental stewardship. His promotion also represents a new chapter as he steers the operations focusing on vessel management, crew safety, and navigation—key facets of barge operations in today’s environment where operational efficiency is paramount. The Future of Barge Operations Duco-Moore expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “This company has been a big part of my life, and I wouldn’t be here without the captains and crews I’ve had the privilege to work with.” His commitment exemplifies the important bond between leadership and the workforce in ensuring operational success. As he takes on this new role, industry experts believe that stronger leadership at this level could be pivotal in enhancing operational responsiveness and safety protocols within the organization. Impact on the Community and the Industry Parker Towing’s operations extend beyond mere transportation. The company facilitates a vital link between various modes of transport—barges, trucks, and rail—contributing significantly to the economy in Alabama and surrounding regions. Understanding the logistics of moving goods effectively underscores the importance of experienced professionals guiding these operations. As the freight industry increasingly faces challenges due to supply chain disruptions, strong leadership figures like Duco-Moore are crucial for navigating complex operational landscapes and for implementing innovative practices that meet evolving regulatory standards. His promotion could also imply a shift towards more adaptive management styles that prioritize employee welfare while enhancing productivity. Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities As Duco-Moore embraces his new responsibilities, the future of Parker Towing will likely hinge on how effectively he can blend tradition with innovation. Companies in the industry are exploring new technologies and methodologies that can further streamline barge operations. From implementing advanced tracking systems to utilizing green technologies, the path forward will demand flexibility and a forward-thinking approach. No doubt, the coming months will reveal how his leadership influences Parker Towing’s strategies as they strive to maintain their competitive edge while fostering a culture of safety and efficiency. In conclusion, the promotion of Zebulon Duco-Moore is not just a personal milestone but an essential step for Parker Towing as they continue to establish themselves as leaders in the barge industry. His dedication is set to enhance operational integrity and foster a responsive workforce, echoing a broader commitment to safety and reliability in the sector.