Loadstar is pleased to announce that Earl Jones, Marine Operations Manager, has been named a 2025 40 Under 40 honoree by The Waterways Journal. This distinguished recognition celebrates the hard work, leadership, and dedication of young professionals who are shaping the future of the inland marine transportation industry.
Earl will be honored alongside this year’s recipients at the 2025 Inland Marine Expo (IMX), scheduled for May 28–30 in Nashville, Tennessee.
“Earl Jones is one of the finest young leaders in our industry,” says Loadstar Vice President of Operations Brett Murray. “We are very proud of his accomplishments and this well-deserved recognition. Earl’s leadership, commitment to safety and operational excellence, and passion for mentoring the next generation are what this award is all about.”
Earl began his career as a tankerman and joined Loadstar not long after the company’s launch in 2021. He quickly earned the respect of his peers and was selected as the first supervisor of Loadstar’s Houston tankerman operations. The following year Earl was promoted to Operations Manager. He now oversees Loadstar operations in Houston, Beaumont, Lake Charles, and Corpus Christi.
Earl is dedicated to tankerman training and development. He leads the company’s Coast Guard-approved tankerman school, the Loadstar Tankerman Academy. Earl also serves on the Tankerman Subcommittee for American Waterways Operations, a group dedicated to tankerman safety, training, and the development of industry best practices.
Earl has also played a pivotal role in recruiting newcomers to our industry, training them to become tankermen and receive their Merchant Mariner’s Certificate. He also mentors future leaders through Loadstar’s Rising Stars program.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition on behalf of Loadstar, our employees, and our industry,” said Earl.
Earl Jones received his 40U40 award at the IMX Awards Banquet in Nashville, TN on May 30, 2025. Supported by Khalon Dennie, Brian Haymon, Earl Jones, Brett Murray, Kurt Dunmore.
