Jim Colman, Assistant Vice President of vessel operations for Jacksonville, Fla.-based Sea Star Line, LLC, has been elected to a five-year term of membership to the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).

Founded in 1862, ABS serves the marine, offshore and related industries as a self-regulatory organization for promoting the safety of life and property and protecting the environment at sea. General management of ABS is vested in a membership comprised of individuals eminent in these industries.

As a member, Colman will help shape the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities.

'This is a great honor for all of us at Sea Star Line and reflects Jim's many years of experience and expertise in our profession,' said Steve Hastings, President of Sea Star Line. 'We are proud to see him serve and help shape the standards of our industry.'

Colman began his career at sea as a United States Merchant Marine, and is nearing 40 years in the industry. He has held several positions in ship operations, marine operations, and marine engineering. Colman is also a member of the Society of Marine Port Engineers, the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, and the Marine Machinery Association.