The American Waterways Operators, is the national trade association for the U.S. tugboat, towboat and barge industry. For more than 60 years AWO has promoted the contribution of the domestic waterways transportation industry to the U.S. economy. AWO acts as the principal advocate for the U.S. tugboat, towboat and barge industry in Washington, D.C. with key policymakers and federal officials. AWO is governed by an elected body of 52 members who serve on the association’s Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for development and approval of policy and strategy.