The American Equity Underwriters Inc. has announced the appointment of Jason Lake as Senior Vice President and Director of Loss Control. Lake assumed the role Jan. 1, 2026. He succeeds Jimmy Burgin, who will retire in July 2026.
AEU, based in Mobile, Ala., is the leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance for waterfront employers.
Leadership Transition
Jimmy Burgin leaves behind a longstanding record of service to AEU and the maritime industry. He joined AEU in 1997 at the request of founder Mike Lapeyrouse. During his tenure, he helped shape loss control programs for waterfront employers nationwide.
In addition, Burgin consistently advocated for workplace safety and team development. His leadership influenced AEU clients and the broader maritime community.
Now, Lake steps into the role with responsibility for continuing that focus on safety and service.
Lake’s Background and Industry Experience
Lake brings extensive technical and maritime experience to the position. He is a Certified Safety Professional and chairs the AEU Loss Control Advisory Council. He also leads his local chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals. Previously, he served on the NFPA Technical Committee on Gas Hazards.
Moreover, Lake graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 2005. He began his career sailing on Watson class vessels around the world. As a result, he gained firsthand knowledge of the work environments AEU members operate in each day.
Winchester Thurber, AEU’s chief commercial officer, emphasized Lake’s qualifications.
“Jason brings a rare combination of technical safety expertise, time at sea, and deep familiarity with the challenges our customers face every day,” Thurber said. “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., an Amwins company, serves as program administrator for American Longshore Mutual Association Ltd. The association operates as a group self-insurance fund authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor. It provides coverage for waterfront employers in all 50 states under the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
AEU provides claims handling, loss control, longshore consulting, and related support services. For more information, call 866-238-8754 or visit amequity.com. The company also shares updates on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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