Following the IMX 40 Under 40 awards ceremony, Chance Burge and Captain Adam Stephens reflect on the achievement, the mentors who helped guide them and the opportunities that shaped their paths at ACBL.
When Chance Burge, Senior Director of Operations, and Captain Adam Stephens were recognized as part of the Inland Marine Expo (IMX) 40 Under 40 class in Nashville, the moment represented more than an industry award.
It was also a reflection of the career paths, mentorship and opportunities that help Team Members grow as leaders across ACBL.
“ACBL is a company of opportunity as much as we are a towboat company. We put the opportunities in front of people, and Adam and Chance have both just run away with it.”
— Randy Chamness, VP of Northern Vessel Operations
Their stories show two paths of leadership at ACBL. Chance’s story reflects the trust he has earned from the people around him. Adam’s path shows what can happen when a Mariner starts on deck, keeps learning and works his way into the wheelhouse.
Chance Burge
The award reflects years of dedication and the standard Chance continues to set as a leader. MJ Johnson, VP of Vessel Operations, described him as someone others look up to and want to follow.
“Chance is the cornerstone of our operation. I always ask everybody, ‘What kind of leader do you want to be?’ I can’t think of one person that doesn’t want to be the next Chance Burge or follow in his footsteps. He just always exceeds expectations.”
— MJ Johnson, VP of Vessel Operations
For Chance, hearing his name called at IMX was a meaningful moment because it showed that years of work and dedication had been noticed.
“I’m beyond honored. I’ve been doing it 15 years in the industry, and when you hear your name called, it’s like somebody actually paid attention. Dedication goes a long way.”
— Chance Burge, Senior Director of Operations
Adam Stephens
Adam’s path shows what opportunity can look like on the river. He started at ACBL as a green deckhand, worked his way through the ranks and now serves as Captain on the M/V ACBL Mariner, one of the largest boats in ACBL’s fleet.
“Adam started as a green deckhand at ACBL and worked his way up. It didn’t take him long to become one of our leading captains. He’s respected by his peers, both inside ACBL and outside. We’re honored to have him.”
— Randy Chamness, VP of Northern Vessel Operations
Adam credited the people who helped him along the way, from his early days on deck to his growth into the wheelhouse.
“I owe a lot to everybody, from deck all the way up to Randy. I’ve had a lot of good mentors, for sure.”
— Captain Adam Stephens, M/V ACBL Mariner
Rob De Luca, Lead Captain, said Adam’s progression gives other Mariners a clear example of what is possible when they continue learning and growing in their careers.
“To see that progression and where he’s at now, Captain on one of the biggest boats in our fleet, it gives hope that there are possibilities of starting off as a deckhand and making your way to the top.”
— Rob De Luca, Lead Captain
Their recognition at IMX reflects the kind of leadership that strengthens ACBL every day, not just through titles or awards, but through the trust they’ve built with the people around them.
Congratulations to Chance and Adam on this achievement.