Early Life
Thomas B. Crowley Jr. was born in San Francisco, California. He spent his youth gaining hands-on experience within the family business, cleaning tugboats, scraping barnacles, and off-loading equipment. He earned a business finance degree from the University of Washington. Crowley's early involvement in the company instilled in him a deep understanding of its operations and a commitment to the maritime industry.
Rise to Success
Crowley began his career with the company by working odd jobs during high school and college summers. After college, he managed the loading and unloading of container ships. In 1991, he became the general manager of the Red & White Fleet, the company's passenger service in San Francisco Bay. Following the passing of his father in 1994, Thomas Crowley Jr. took over as CEO and Chairman of Crowley Maritime Corporation at the age of 27.
Key Business Strategies
Under Thomas Crowley Jr.'s leadership, Crowley Maritime has focused on expanding its services and innovating within the maritime and logistics sectors. He has steered the company towards sustainability, constructing the first LNG-powered combination container/roll-on roll-off (ConRo) ships. Crowley has also expanded the company's government services, including a significant contract with the Department of Defense. Moreover, he has overseen Crowley's entry into new energy markets, such as offshore wind.
Philanthropy
Crowley Maritime has supported various charitable initiatives. The company’s mission includes volunteerism to improve education, health and wellness of its employees and communities. Crowley has also supported disaster relief efforts, including providing assistance after Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.