MOBILE, Ala. – The American Equity Underwriters, Inc., the leading provider of workers' compensation insurance for waterfront employers, is pleased to share that Jason Lake has been named Senior Vice President, Director of Loss Control, effective January 1, 2026. Lake will assume the role from Jimmy Burgin, who will retire in July 2026.

Burgin established a lasting legacy of service to AEU and the maritime industry as a whole. Since joining AEU in 1997 at the request of founder Mike Lapeyrouse, he has helped shape loss control programs for waterfront employers across the country. Throughout his tenure, Burgin has been a passionate advocate for workplace safety and team development. His leadership has had a meaningful impact on AEU clients and the broader maritime community.

Lake will carry forward Burgin’s commitment to safety and service as he assumes the role of Senior Vice President, Director of Loss Control. He is a Certified Safety Professional, chairs the AEU Loss Control Advisory Council, leads his local chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals, and previously served on the NFPA Technical Committee on Gas Hazards. Lake is also a 2005 graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and began his career sailing on Watson class vessels around the world, providing firsthand insight into the work environments of AEU members.

“Jason brings a rare combination of technical safety expertise, time at sea, and deep familiarity with the challenges our customers face every day,” said Winchester Thurber, Chief Commercial Officer at AEU. “He has earned the trust of our members and colleagues through his leadership in the broader safety community and within our own Loss Control team, and we are confident he will continue to strengthen the value AEU delivers to waterfront employers.”

About The American Equity Underwriters, Inc.

The American Equity Underwriters, Inc. (AEU), an Amwins company, serves as program administrator for American Longshore Mutual Association Ltd., a group self-insurance fund authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor for waterfront employers in all 50 states under the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Based in Mobile, Ala., AEU provides best-in-class services including claims handling, loss control, longshore consulting and other support. For more information, call (866) 238-8754 or visit amequity.com. Follow AEU on Facebook and LinkedIn.