James Potts of Marine Repair Services has been awarded the title of Operations Professional of the Year by Signal Mutual.

"The OPY award honors the operational professional who sets high safety standards based on personal values and commitment to preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, makes significant contributions to operational safety excellence and displays values and commitment that are models for others to emulate," according to Signal Mutual, a membership-based self-insurer. 

Potts began working with Marine Repair Services – Container Maintenance Corp., which partners with the Port of Wilmington, in early 2019 as a refrigerated container supervisor in Wilmington. He was promoted to terminal manager in 2020, recently taking on additional roles, locations and responsibilities within the company.

He started working with Cape Fear Community College and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) a couple of years ago to develop a continuous training program for CMC/ILA employees, which "has helped give all employees the training needed to have one of the safest yet most productive work forces around," the release stated. 

According to the release, Potts has used his background of athletic leadership, coaching and leadership in the community, coupled with experience in previous managerial roles "to lead employees and operations to success. With the help of his coworkers, and the CMC Safety team, James has created a culture of safety that remains at the forefront of everything they do."

Potts loves being active and enjoys playing in many local sports leagues, being most passionate about football and softball, the release stated. He also loves adventures with family and friends, especially his wife, Abbey, according to the release.

Potts was recognized in New Orleans earlier this month at Signal Mutual's general meeting.

(Pictured above, from left, are: Safety Director Sam Claxton; Potts; and Director Michael Wojnowski)