Thomas A. Allegretti served as President and CEO of The American Waterways Operators (AWO) for 26 years, retiring from the role on 1 January 2020. During his tenure he was credited with steering the tugboat, towboat and barge industry trade association through significant change, and he mentored Jennifer Carpenter, whom he promoted to succeed him as President and CEO. He also chaired the American Maritime Partnership.
He spoke as a panellist at Mare Forum Houston 2002 and Mare Forum USA 2004.