DR. JOHN SPENCER NAMED DIRECTOR OF NTSB OFFICE OF MARINE SAFETY

Washington, D.C. -- National Transportation Safety Board Acting Chairman Mark V. Rosenker has announced the appointment of John Spencer as the Board's Director of the Office of Marine Safety. Dr. Spencer assumed his new duties this week.

Dr. Spencer has spent his 35-year professional career on maritime safety issues. He worked for the United States Coast Guard for 21 years in the Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection Program. He then spent 14 years with the American Bureau of Shipping, most recently as Vice President of Technology in Houston, Texas.

"We are fortunate that Jack Spencer has assumed this important job at the NTSB," Acting Chairman Rosenker said. "The Board has experienced increased marine activity in recent years, and Dr. Spencer's vast knowledge and international renown will greatly enhance our marine safety team."

Dr. Spencer received his bachelor's degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the Webb Institute of Naval Architecture in Glen Cove, New York, and a Master's in the same discipline at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He earned his doctorate in structural engineering at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He also holds a Master's degree in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College.

Dr. Spencer and his wife Kathy are parents of four children.

The Safety Board investigates major accidents in all modes of transportation. The Board investigates major marine accidents on navigable waters of the United States, involving U.S. merchant vessels in international waters, and collisions involving U.S. public and nonpublic vessels. In addition, it investigates selected marine accidents that involve public transportation or those of a recurring nature.

NTSB Media Contact:
Ted Lopatkiewicz
(202) 314-6100
lopatt@ntsb.gov