Member Feature: Jason Alvarez, PSM/EHS, Howard Energy Partners
How did you first become involved in the terminal industry?
I entered the terminal industry when I joined Howard Energy Partners and began supporting operations in Port Arthur, Three Rivers, Corpus Christi, and previously Brownsville. Before that, my experience was in gas pipelines and construction, so terminals were a new challenge and an opportunity to expand my perspective.
My path has been unconventional but formative. I served in the U.S. Army, worked as a firefighter, and later transitioned into construction as a medic and safety facilitator, which sparked my interest in industrial hygiene and systems-based safety. That experience led me into pipeline construction during the Eagle Ford expansion.
When I joined Howard Energy Partners, I focused on learning terminal‑specific risks, regulatory expectations, and how to build trust with the people doing the work. One belief has carried with me throughout my career: safe, compliant operations happen because of disciplined systems, strong leadership, and field‑level trust.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the people. I work with nearly every group across Howard Energy Partners, which allows me to have influence and learn from a wide range of talented people. It makes the work meaningful and keeps me evolving. I feel a responsibility to the people I work with – I want them to excel at work and in life. This only happens when people feel supported, protected, and respected, which is part of our company culture.
For me, safety and compliance are about trust, performance, and long-term success. This is what creates the foundation for our culture at Howard Energy Partners. Being part of this culture, and being able to contribute to it, is incredibly rewarding.
What advice would you offer to someone just starting out with a liquid terminal company?
Start by learning operations from the ground up and listen more than you speak. If you focus on learning, humility, and accountability early on, everything else tends to follow.
Terminals are complex, so be curious about how the work really gets done. Build relationships with operators, engineers, project managers, and maintenance teams. Their knowledge will accelerate your learning and shape how you approach your role.
Treat safety and compliance as core operational disciplines. They are not obstacles to productivity. Doing things the right way - continuously and intentionally - creates stability, protects people, and results in long-term success.
What would you say to a young person considering a future career with a liquid terminal company?
I would strongly encourage it. The terminal industry plays a vital role in supporting communities and economies around the world, even if much of the work happens behind the scenes.
It’s an industry full of opportunity. You’ll find work with purpose, people who value teamwork, and a career path that can take you to new places. If you bring curiosity and a strong work ethic, the industry will invest in your growth.
It’s meaningful work, and it’s work you can be proud of.
How have you seen the industry change over your career?
Since around 2015, the liquid terminal industry has become more intentional, disciplined, and forward-looking. Safety and compliance are now fully integrated into operational excellence, and companies are investing in better systems, training, and leadership involvement.
Technology has accelerated this progress. Digital tools and improved data visibility support stronger planning, risk management, and operational readiness. These tools don’t replace the people, but they support better decision-making and result in more reliable operations.
Culturally, the sector is more focused on communication, learning from incidents, and empowering people in the field to take ownership. Sustained performance depends on engaged teams, strong leadership, and a shared commitment to doing things right.
How do you think the industry will continue to change over the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
Over the next 5, 10, 20 years, the liquid terminal industry will continue to grow with technology and the increasing global demand for more energy. The mission of safe, reliable energy storage and movement will remain, but how we execute the work will continue to evolve.
AI and advanced data tools will support better predictive maintenance, smarter scheduling, and stronger decision‑making. They won’t replace people, but they will enhance consistency, efficiency, and safety.
Energy demand will continue to change, and terminals will adapt to support a broader mix of energy products. Flexibility will be essential as supply chains and customer needs evolve.
Change is coming, but through all of it, people and culture will remain central. Companies that invest in their workforce and maintain disciplined systems will seize the opportunities and be resilient.
What is your level of involvement with ILTA?
I’m actively involved with ILTA through conferences and committee work, representing Howard Energy Partners and supporting the broader terminal industry. ILTA plays a key role in elevating safety, professionalism, and collaboration, and I plan to continue expanding my involvement. Being engaged with ILTA aligns with my belief that strong industries are built through shared learning, leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
What’s your favorite part of being involved with ILTA?
While the annual conference is always a highlight, I most value the ongoing engagement through ILTA’s discourse groups. These forums bring together professionals from across companies and regions to share ideas, compare approaches, and learn from one another. This level of open dialogue makes ILTA special, fostering collaboration, strengthening professional relationships, and elevating the industry as a whole.
Do you belong to any community or civic organizations?
None at this time.
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to mention?
I’m an endurance athlete and have completed ultra‑distance races, an Ironman, and most recently completed the New York City Marathon. Endurance training reinforces principles I value in my work: discipline, preparation, resilience, and steady execution over time.
Anything additional you’d like to add?
I’m grateful to be part of an industry that plays such an essential role in supporting communities and economies around the world. We work behind the scenes, but what we do requires dedication, trust, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Organizations like ILTA help highlight that work and the people behind it, and I’m proud to contribute and grow alongside so many professionals who are deeply about doing the right things in the right way.