As the guiding force behind the safe and efficient marine operations at Port Arthur LNG, Dallas Smith, Marine Operations and Security Manager, steers the project towards success. Drawing on his extensive experience, which includes 20 years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard. During his last 6 years in the Coast Guard, Dallas ran the USCG Liquefied Gas National Center of Expertise managing all LNG projects in the U.S. for the Coast Guard. Read more as Dallas shares insights into his maritime journey, experience with liquefied gas safety and security, and his vital role in the success of Port Arthur LNG project.
Tell us about yourself and your role.
I have been a part of the Port Arthur LNG team for almost a year, having joined the company last April. Since my move to Nederland, TX, in 2013 with my wife and three children, we established deep roots in the community. In my role, I manage the development and implementation of policies and standards, ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient operations of LNG marine activities. As the first operations employee hired for Port Arthur LNG, I bring over 24 years of expertise to oversee marine design, engineering, construction, and day-to-day operations. My responsibilities extend to coordinating facility security operations, ensuring compliance with U.S. and international regulations, and providing support during negotiations of commercial contracts. Outside of my professional responsibilities, I actively participate in community service projects through my church and organizations affiliated with my children’s school. I have a strong commitment to both my work and the local community.
In what ways do you think the project contributes to the local community’s growth and development?
Being from the area, I have witnessed how the project contributes to the growth and development of the local community. Port Arthur LNG’s commitment is evident through various outreach initiatives, community events, grants supporting non-profits such as Environmental Champions, Season of Giving, and partnerships with local government and schools. As someone hired locally, the emphasis on hiring from the community was crucial in accepting this role. The project’s commitment extends to supporting local vendors, reflecting a value instilled in me from my experience of being hired locally. As a hiring manager now, I continue the chain of local hires, reinforcing the project’s positive impact on our community.
From a career development standpoint, what opportunities has PALNG opened for you?
From a career development perspective, PALNG has provided me with unique opportunities that align perfectly with my personal values. The team’s strong commitment to the community, which is not always a universal priority in companies, resonated with me as it stands as a core value at PALNG. Transitioning from my role as Senior Vice President of Commercial and Head of LNG Operations for the Liberian Registry to becoming the Marine Operations and Security Manager turned out to be one of the best decisions. My quality of life has significantly improved, offering more flexibility and time for my family. The team’s genuine appreciation for its employees is truly remarkable and has had a positive impact on my professional journey.
Safety is at the center of everything we do. How do you help to reinforce our safety-first culture?
Safety is the paramount foundation of all our operations, and I play a crucial role in reinforcing our safety-first culture. Drawing from my background in the Coast Guard, where I regulated maritime vessels and terminal and investigated marine accidents, safety has always been a crucial aspect of my professional and personal life. This commitment extends beyond the workplace; even at home, I instill the same safety principles in my children. It is not just rhetoric at PALNG – safety is genuinely a priority that I witness daily.
Thank you, Dallas, for sharing your story with us. We deeply appreciate your contributions to the success of the Sempra Infrastructure and Port Arthur LNG Teams.
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