We Work The Waterways Expands Staff, Creates Position

Every day seems to bring new announcements of shipbuilding initiatives, and all those planned initiatives will need qualified workers. It’s an exciting, busy time to be in the business of encouraging young people to consider careers in shipbuilding, the U.S. merchant marine and related industries.

Under Executive Director Errin Howard, We Work the Waterways (WWW) has been in that business for 18 years and recently became a free-standing 501(c)(3) nonprofit. As it has made more contacts in Washington and garnered more support throughout the maritime sector, its workload continues to grow.

WWW recently announced the appointment of Kelsey Foster as the organization’s deputy director, a newly created leadership position established to support the organization’s continued national growth.

Foster’s background closely aligned with the needs of WWW. She was originally recruited for a Director of Industry, Workforce & Partnerships position, but the role was expanded in recognition of her experience in nonprofit leadership, economic development, public policy and strategic partnerships.

Her work in economic development in Louisiana put her in close touch with the maritime industry. Most recently, Foster served as executive director of the Algiers Economic Development Foundation, where she led initiatives focused on strengthening local communities through economic growth and collaboration. Part of that work included working with kids to increase awareness of maritime careers. Partnerships included Harbor Towing and Crescent Towing, which provided boat trips for students. “That’s the one that got kids excited about working in this industry,” said Foster. “We also worked on interview skills, presentations and real-world money management.”

Foster took leadership roles with the Committee for a Better New Orleans and as the vice president of the Board of Commissioners for Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – West. That work provided extensive experience in civic engagement, public finance, communications and organizational leadership.

In her new role, Foster will work alongside Howard and the rest of the WWW team to support its continued growth, expand strategic partnerships, strengthen organizational operations and advance the organization’s mission of increasing awareness of maritime careers while building tomorrow’s maritime workforce.

“We’re excited to welcome Kelsey to We Work the Waterways,” said Howard. “Kelsey brings an incredible combination of leadership, nonprofit experience and partnership-building that will strengthen our organization as we continue to grow. Her passion for creating opportunities for others aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re excited to have her on our team.”

Looking ahead to her new role, Foster said, “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating economic opportunity — especially for our youth. I’m honored and excited to help inspire the next generation of maritime leaders through We Work the Waterways.”

Foster holds a bachelor’s degree in Print and Multimedia Journalism from Emerson College, a Master of Public Service degree from the University of Arkansas and has a Professional Certificate in Public Finance from the University of Chicago.

She has served in numerous leadership roles throughout the New Orleans region, including appointments to nonprofit boards and public commissions, and is a graduate of several respected leadership development programs.

The creation of this new leadership position reflects We Work the Waterways’ continued national growth and the increasing demand for its educational programs and industry partnerships. By expanding its leadership team, said Howard, the organization is strengthening its ability to serve students, educators, industry partners and communities across the country while continuing to build tomorrow’s maritime workforce.

Board President Seth Lawson echoed the exciting addition to the team, highlighting the value Kelsey will bring to the organization’s continued growth: “As the We Work the Waterways team continues to expand our impact across the country, the addition of Kelsey to the team not only supports that mission but also will allow us to better serve our valued partners across the Gulf Coast region as well. Welcome to the team, Kelsey!”