Member Feature: Jonathan Hawkins, CHMM, CSP, Environmental Specialist, Pin Oak Group LLC
How did you first become involved in the terminal industry? Share a bit about that journey.
I am new to the terminal industry; I started with Pin Oak in October 2024 as an environmental specialist. As an environmental specialist, I primarily support terminal operations, focusing my efforts on maintaining compliance with our Title V air permit and our TPDES permit. Besides air and water, I am responsible for maintaining waste compliance and working with the team to develop a strong safety culture!
What is the best part of your job?
I believe the best part of my job is the ability to assist the company in multiple areas. With overseeing compliance in so many areas, it affords me the unique opportunity to be exposed to many different aspects of industry. I am constantly learning new things and working with every group in the organization to improve policies and procedures wherever practicable.
What advice would you offer to someone just starting out with a liquid terminal company?
If I could offer myself advice a year ago, being brand new to this industry, I would specifically suggest networking effectively and being available to assist. Personally, working extra on my own to obtain CHMM and CSP certifications has placed me in situations to grow my career and participate in projects for which I would not otherwise have been qualified.
What would you say to a young person to encourage them to pursue a future career with a liquid terminal company?
I would say the most important thing a young person can do is be dependable, coachable, and have a great attitude. I think that alone will put someone in a position to be successful and grow in an organization.
How do you think the industry will continue to change over the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
Recent studies show a growing demand for energy. With the onset of AI, and increased power I see the energy sector playing a pivotal role in the future. I also believe AI will take on a more pronounced role in industry, so I am excited to see how that will be reflected in the coming years!
What is your level of involvement with ILTA?
Our company is new to the ILTA, so I started attending events in 2025. So far, I have been able to attend multiple events and online sessions. I have joined some subcommittees, and I am looking forward to participating more.
What’s your favorite part of being involved with ILTA?
Networking and problem-solving between groups has been my favorite part of joining the ILTA so far. I have appreciated how open groups of people are to the challenges they have faced, and the discussion that follows the presentation of challenges is very enlightening. From a “younger” person’s point of view, I am greatly appreciative of the fact that I get to learn from and interact with HSE leaders of various organizations in our industry. As someone who is always attempting to learn, and grow as a leader, watching a room full of high-level industry leaders respond to a presentation or problem has been incredibly valuable.
Do you belong to any community or civic organizations you’d like to mention?
My wife and I are members of our local church, and we do our best to support locally in our community!
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to mention?
Living in South Texas, I focus on golfing, hunting, and fishing!
Anything additional you'd like to add?
I would just like to thank all the members, and the ILTA staff, for doing such a good job providing these opportunities and events.