Capt. Jeanne E. Ferrer has established herself as a distinguished professional in the maritime industry, currently serving as a commissioner at the Port of New Orleans and the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad since 2022. As one of seven commissioners overseeing both the port and the railroad, she is responsible for managing operations, attending monthly meetings, and handling commercial dealings with tenants and new customers. Her work is integral to the growth and development of these vital transportation hubs, which serve as key economic drivers for the region and the nation.
The governor appointed Ms. Ferrer to the St. Bernard Port Terminal and Harbor District, where she contributed to strategic port development initiatives from 2021 to 2023. Since 2019, she has also served as a Crescent River Port Pilot, navigating ships along a 105-mile route from Pilottown to New Orleans, further supporting the nation’s maritime infrastructure.
Ms. Ferrer’s career as a strategic sealift officer in the U.S. Navy is a rare and specialized role, with only a limited number of professionals worldwide serving in this capacity. In addition to her pilot duties, she plays a key role in moving naval assets through global ports and conducts strategic port studies to aid future naval operations. Her dual career path offers a unique and invaluable perspective within the maritime industry.
Ms. Ferrer’s professional experience includes working with Hornbeck Offshore Services and INTERMARINE Americas LLC from 2006 to 2013, where she refined her expertise in logistics and transportation. Since 2006, she has also served in the U.S. Navy Reserve, further enhancing her maritime knowledge and leadership skills. Ms. Ferrer prepared for her professional achievements by pursuing a higher education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in logistics and intermodal transportation from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 2006 and also holds a first-class pilot license, obtained in 2019, as well as a master unlimited license from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ms. Ferrer is actively engaged in industry-related organizations, including the Lower Mississippi River Navigation Technical Committee of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She is dedicated to mentoring aspiring professionals through Open Waters Louisiana, Women Offshore, and Women in Maritime Operations. She also serves on advisory boards for organizations such as RiverWorks Discovery and Inland Rivers Ports & Terminals Inc. and is a board member of The Propeller Club of the United States at the Port of New Orleans and the Greater New Orleans Council of the Navy League of the United States.
In light of her contributions to the field, Ms. Ferrer has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Biz New Orleans’ New Orleans 500 in both 2023 and 2024. In 2023, she was listed among the Top Women in Maritime by Marine Log, and in 2022, she was honored as Wave Maker of the Year by Women Offshore. Ms. Ferrer attributes her success to persistence, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to the industry.
In advising aspiring professionals, Ms. Ferrer emphasizes the importance of self-belief and finding a supportive community, especially for women in male-dominated fields. She encourages them to seek out their “village” and confidently showcase their talents. She also highlights the value of mentorship, stressing that both giving and receiving guidance are crucial for personal and professional growth.
Balancing her professional commitments, Ms. Ferrer enjoys going to the gym and spending time with friends. She is most proud of her daughter, Bailey, and treasures her role as a mother. In the coming years, Ms. Ferrer plans to continue advocating for the maritime industry while maintaining the legacy she has built through her dedication and passion for the field.