INSIGHTSExecutive DirectorOffshore Supply Vessel Dynamic Aaron C. SmithPositioning Authority (OSVDPA) When the OSVDPA held its ? rst board meeting in Maritime Transportation Act of 2012, Aaron also drafted March, it began charting the course toward a new dynamic and secured House-passage of legislation increasing Louisi-positioning operator (DPO) certi? cate especially designed ana’s share of offshore royalties and ensuring offshore wind for the offshore service vessel industry. As the Executive farms must comply with the Jones Act. Prior to joining Director for the newly created Offshore Supply Vessel Dy- Congressman Landry’s of? ce, Aaron served in similar ca-namic Positioning Authority (OSVDPA), Aaron Smith is pacities for former Congressmen Kenny Hulshof (MO-09) charged with managing the day-to-day operation of the and Henry Brown (SC-01) as well as current Congressman Authority. Along with the OSVDPA Board of Directors Aaron Schock (IL-18). Based in Metairie, Louisiana, he and Technical Advisory Council (TAC), Aaron is current- remains both geographically and strategically close to the ly crafting the Authority’s dynamic positioning operator constituency that he serves today. (DPO) certi? cation program and ensuring this program Incorporated as a non-pro? t, the OSVDPA is seeking to is accepted by the U.S. Coast Guard, the offshore energy improve the safety of the maritime industry by improving industry, and our international counterparts. Prior to join- the quality and quantity of certi? ed DPOs. Beyond this, ing OSVDPA, Aaron was the Deputy Chief of Staff and the Authority will provide a certi? cation pathway to those Legislative Director for Congressman Jeff Landry (LA-03). currently excluded or discouraged from gaining a certi? -In this role, Aaron was responsible for developing strate- cate. Listen in this month as OSVDPA’s Smith plots a new, gies to turn the Congressman’s vision into legislative vic- more inclusive and safer path for offshore oil & gas service tories. In addition to assisting with the Coast Guard and providers. May 2014 12MNMN May14 Layout 1-17.indd 12 MN May14 Layout 1-17.indd 12 4/21/2014 10:39:24 AM4/21/2014 10:39:24 AM