Kuchin named to head Ship Escort/Response Vessel System

Petroleum News Alaska Staff

Alyeska Pipeline Service Co. said May 11 that it has named Joe Kuchin as manager of the Ship Escort/Response Vessel System, which is responsible for the company’s spill prevention and response program in Prince William Sound.

Kuchin has been with the U.S. Coast Guard for 29 years, the majority of that time in marine safety — including extensive work planning for and responding to oil and hazardous material emergencies. He was commander of the National Strike Force, headquartered in Elizabeth City, N.C., chief of marine safety for the Coast Guard’s Atlantic area and co-chair of the federal region III regional response team.

“Joe has a tremendous amount of experience dealing with external stakeholders with varying interests and opinions, and he has an extensive maritime background. That’s a perfect combination for the critical role of Servs manager,” said Dan Hisey, senior vice president of Alyeska’s Valdez business unit.

Kuchin has a B.S. degree from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and an M.A. in management from Central Michigan University. He and his wife Stacy are the parents of eight children, five of whom will be living with them in Valdez.

Kuchin starts his new position June 9, replacing acting manager Dennis Maquire, who will be returning to his position as Servs regulatory manager.

Alyeska said that the mission of Servs is to prevent oil spills by assisting tankers in safe navigation through Prince William Sound and to protect the environment by providing effective oil spill response services. Servs is based in Valdez harbor.