Government Affairs Brief

From answering a newspaper ad at age 25 to becoming a seasoned leader in terminal operations, Elias’s career has been defined by adaptability, mentorship, and a deep commitment to safety and innovation. Reflecting on the industry’s rapid transformation—from paper plans to AI-powered systems—he also highlights one of the most encouraging shifts he’s witnessed: the growing presence of women in technical and leadership roles.

Read the full interview to learn more about Elias’s journey, insights, and vision for the future of the terminal industry.

From crane operator on the East Coast to Senior Safety Specialist overseeing seven petroleum terminals, Scott Espey’s career journey spans nearly three decades in the terminal industry. In his interview, Scott reflects on the evolution of safety, offers advice for newcomers, and shares how AI may shape the future of operations.

Read Scott’s full interview to learn more about his path, his perspective on industry change, and why networking through ILTA has been so valuable.

As ILTA, API, and AFPM continue engaging the Environmental Protection Agency on their joint challenge to the 2024 final Gasoline Distribution Rule, the coalition has agreed to accept EPA and the Department of Justice’s offer to hold the combined Petitions for Judicial Review in abeyance indefinitely. While conversations with EPA remain productive, ILTA remains mindful of the rule’s impacts on capital project planning.

On August 25, ILTA and Ergon Inc. were delighted to host Representative Bennie Thompson (D-MS-2) at Ergon's Marine & Industrial Supply and Refining facilities in Vicksburg, MS. Congressman Thompson, who has represented western Mississippi since 1993, currently serves as the Ranking Member on the House Homeland Security Committee.

ILTA and Ergon used the opportunity to not only highlight the impact of Ergon both within Mississippi and around the world, but the wider industry's reliance on PFAS-based firefighting foams in facility safety as well.

With a career that spans multiple industries, Jeri George, Senior Director of HR at Howard Energy Partners, shares what sparked her interest in the terminal sector and how people strategy can be a powerful driver of business success.

In this interview, Jeri discusses the evolving role of HR, the importance of aligning people and purpose, and the opportunities ahead for talent development in a changing industry. Read on to learn her insights on workforce trends, advice for newcomers, and the value of bringing a people-first perspective to terminal operations.