40 Under 40 Awards: Jacobs, Lapikas, Lawson And Lewis

For the ninth year, 40 of the industry’s future leaders were 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. All 40 honorees were 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 recipients. This week we recognize Kris Jacobs, Randal Lapikas, Seth Lawson and Brad Lewis.

Kris Jacobs

Kris Jacobs, 39, is port captain of Golding Barge Line.

Jacobs joined Golding Barge Line in 2023 as the port captain of the West Division. Prior to his career at Golding, Jacobs served as port captain for NGL Energy Partners LP for nearly three years after holding the role of captain for six.

In his current position, Jacobs oversees 11 vessels, 23 red flag tank barges and nearly 100 employees. He is commended by his supervisors and coworkers for his knowledge of Coast Guard regulations and vessel maintenance, his dedication to his crew and his commitment to safety.

“Jacobs brings a valuable and new perspective to Golding Barge Line that makes us better,” said Hannah Lewis, health and safety director for Golding Barge Line. “His passion and commitment are contagious and are role model traits for our mariners. Capt. Kris has accomplished many goals in his career, and we know he will continue to succeed throughout the years to come.”

Randal Lapikas

Randal Lapikas, 39, is the vessel manager and dispatcher for Carlisle & Bray Marine (C&B Marine).

Lapikas started his maritime career in 2004, following in the footsteps of his brother. After high school, he began working for Greater Cincinnati Marine (GCM) as a deckhand and heavy equipment operator.  In 2009, Lapikas earned his Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), and in 2011, when GCM merged with Bray Marine to become Carlisle & Bray Marine, he transitioned to the role of fleet supervisor across several harbor operations.

In 2023, Lapikas was promoted to his current shoreside position of vessel manager. In this role, he oversees vessel operations, regulatory compliance, safety performance and personnel development across 12 vessels and more than 100 employees. In 2026, Lapikas also began working in the dispatch department to broaden his knowledge of the industry and strengthen his understanding of fleet logistics, vessel coordination and system-wide operations.

“Randal’s operational excellence and commitment to safety have played a critical role in allowing C&B to continue its growth while maintaining its high operational standards,” said Randy Simmonds, vice president of C&B Marine.

Seth Lawson

Seth Lawson, 38, is the chief operations officer at Lawson Rigging & Fabrication.

As COO, Lawson is responsible for everything from high-level business decisions to supporting field operations. He balances leadership across operations, problem-solving on a daily basis. The Lawson family business has blossomed under his leadership.

Lawson also serves as board president for We Work the Waterways (WWW) and is a board member of Inland Rivers, Ports and Terminals (IRPT).

“Seth Lawson exemplifies the kind of leadership, grit and adaptability that define today’s most impactful young executives,” said Kate Brown, human resources manager at Lawson Marine. “As chief operating officer, Seth brings a uniquely diverse background to his role — combining hands-on industry experience with strategic oversight — to drive results while remaining deeply connected to the people and operations that make the business succeed.”

Lawson’s peers described him as a grounded, approachable and people-focused leader who prioritizes humility, teamwork and trust. He models accountability, resilience and dedication to company values, and his colleagues commended him for his tenacity and willingness to take on a challenge.

“Seth Lawson represents the next generation of industry leaders: resilient, multifaceted and purpose-driven,” Brown said. “His contributions, leadership mindset and ability to grow both people and business make him an outstanding candidate for recognition as a 40 Under 40 honoree.”

Brad Lewis

Brad Lewis, 39, is the senior manager of barge sales and logistics at Marquette Transportation Company, LLC.

Lewis began his maritime career when he joined the team at Marquette as sales and logistics manager in 2015. After more than a decade at Marquette, Lewis was promoted to the senior position in his field.

In his role, Lewis demonstrates operational expertise, strategic vision and a commitment to safety and efficiency. According to his colleagues, barge logistics operations have achieved measurable improvements in coordination, asset utilization and customer service under his leadership. The Marquette team praised Lewis for his ability to balance real-time operational demands with long-term strategic planning, as well as his forward-thinking approach to optimizing fleet deployment, strengthening communication and data-led decision-making.

Lewis is known as a leader who invests in his team, fostering accountability, collaboration and professional development.

“Brad exemplifies the values that will shape the future of the marine industry: innovation, adaptability and a commitment to elevating standards,” said Jeff Hudson, chief human resources officer for Marquette Transportation.

Featured photo caption: Kris Jacobs of Golding Barge Line, Randal Lapikas of Carlisle & Bray Marine, Seth Lawson of Lawson Rigging & Fabrication and Brad Lewis of Marquette Transportation Company.