40 Under 40: Tiefenthaler, Tyler, Vicknair and Werner
For eight years, 40 of the industry’s future leaders have been honored at the Inland Marine Expo with the “40 Under 40” award, which recognizes individuals for their outstanding contributions to the inland marine transportation industry in a variety of fields. Honorees are nominated by executives and peers for their hard work and dedication to the industry.
Over the course of 10 weeks, The Waterways Journal is featuring this year’s recipients. This week we recognize Luke Tiefenthaler, TJ Tyler, Scott Vicknair and James Werner.
Luke Tiefenthaler
Luke Tiefenthaler, 29, is a marine systems engineer at Boksa Marine Design (BMD).
Tiefenthaler specializes in designing and integrating propulsion and electrical control systems as well as ABS-certified bridge, navigation and dynamic positioning systems. A graduate of United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), he is a licensed USCG 3rd assistant engineer and a commissioned U.S. Navy reservist.
His experience includes working on the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine, the USS Constellation FFG-62 guided-missile frigate and commercial and military sealift command vessels. Tiefenthaler was assigned by BMD to modernize Tug Mary Lynn Cooper with the current technology in the bridge and engine room.
“Luke’s skills bring the latest innovation to the inland marine market,” said Lisa Overing, president and creative director of Megayacht Media.
Tiefenthaler is currently leading innovative systems design efforts on both new and refit vessels including military craft, commercial and passenger vessels while partnering with top industry vendors to optimize ship systems. On refit projects, Tiefenthaler specializes in integrating legacy technology with equipment available in today’s market to help tackle the challenges of obsolescence and modernization.
TJ Tyler
TJ Tyler, 38, is the northbound shipment coordinator and inventory specialist at American River Transportation Company (ARTCo).
Tyler leads the barge inventory management and northbound contract coordination for all dry cargo barge loadings in the Gulf Region.
“TJ is the Swiss army knife of Gulf logistics and barge operations for our company,” said Joey Meerman, Gulf commercial manager at ARTCo. “He has trained nearly our entire logistics team at some point or another during his time with ARTCo. His customer relations and support are second to none.”
Tyler began his career at ARTCo in 2014 as a barge dispatcher. From there he moved into roles in logistics coordination, positions he held for more than four years. He has been the company’s northbound shipment coordinator since 2019.
“TJ’s devotion to the job and our industry is unwavering,” Meerman said. “He led the group to promote a disciplined and structured work routine from home during COVID years, and continues to exemplify ownership, accountability, resourcefulness and teamwork in all aspects of his work today. TJ has built an expectation that our customers depend on, with second-to-none service to meet deadlines, reduce costs and streamline logistics. He has set the tone for what it takes to operate under ‘the ARTCo way’ and will play an integral role in shaping us for the future.”
Scott Vicknair
Scott Vicknair, 39, is a captain at Turn Services, Convent, La.
Vicknair began his career at Turn Services as a captain in 2016. As captain of the mv. Rachel Alexandra, Vicknair works primarily at the Carlisle Fleet. He is known for his deep knowledge of the river system and his commitment to safety and operational efficiency.
“[Scott] has exemplified the leadership, dedication and expertise that make him a standout figure in the inland river industry,” said Dawn Lopez, vice president of marketing at Turn Services. “His team-oriented outlook and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of his work. Whether navigating the complexities of river traffic or addressing the day-to-day challenges of vessel operations, Scott remains calm under pressure and strives for continuous improvement, both for his crew and the company.”
Lopez emphasized Vicknair’s dedication to the future of Turn Services by establishing a culture of respect, accountability and learning when training new mariners.
“What truly sets Scott apart is his unwavering focus on teamwork and mentoring the next generation of mariners,” Lopez said. “He is a hands-on leader who believes in bringing his deckhands up through the ranks, ensuring they gain the skills and experience needed to transition into the wheelhouse.”
James Werner
James Werner, 39, was the director of EHS & vetting at Campbell Transportation Company when he received the 40 Under 40 award.
Werner began his maritime career as a steersman with Kirby Corporation after graduating in 2008 from SUNY Maritime College. He worked onboard vessels before he moved shoreside in various roles for both inland and offshore divisions including port captain, safety manager and senior manager of training.
Werner joined Campbell Transportation Company in 2014 as a senior manager of safety and vetting. As the director of EHS and vetting, Werner led initiatives for environmental, health and safety and vetting for both river and Gulf divisions, including shipyards and facilities. His efforts focused on protecting and supporting Campbell employees, customers, equipment and the environments the company operates in.
“I truly appreciate the recognition associated with this award,” Werner said. “I’m both honored and humbled. I’ve been fortunate to work with some great people in my career, while always having the support of my family.”
Werner is active in the industry outside of his work as well. He is part of the American Society of Safety Professionals and the American Waterways Operators’ tankering, fall overboard and recreational boater committees. He also serves as vice chair for the Houston branch of the Nautical Institute.
