U.S. Arctic strategyCoast Guard to discuss new U.S. Arctic strategy

Published 17 October 2013

The future of the Arctic has become a hot topic in U.S. national security, energy, and policy circles. The Washington Homeland Security Roundtable (WHSR) has organized a forum for private-sector leaders in which Vice Admiral Peter Neffenger, deputy commandant for operations of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and Captain Jon Spaner, USCG director of emerging policy, will discuss the ramifications of climate-driven changes in the Arctic for U.S. national security and maritime operations, and share insights on the role of the USCG in meeting the challenges posed by a new ocean created by rapidly melting ice.

The future of the Arctic has become a hot topic in U.S. national security, energy, and policy circles. The Washington Homeland Security Roundtable (WHSR) invites private-sector leaders to a forum in which Vice Admiral Peter Neffenger, deputy commandant for operations of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and Captain Jon Spaner, USCG director of emerging policy, will discuss the ramifications of climate-driven changes in the Arctic for U.S. national security and maritime operations, and share insights on the role of the USCG in meeting the challenges posed by a new ocean created by rapidly melting ice.

The forum will be held at the Cosmos Club, Washington, D.C. on Monday, 28 October 2013.

“In the Arctic a new ocean is opening before our eyes, promising access to resources and opportunities once thought impossible.  Such economic incentives are fundamentally transforming maritime activity in the Arctic region. As an Arctic nation the United States has profound interests in ensuring that this activity is conducted in a safe, secure and environmentally responsible manner,” said Admiral Neffenger. “To that end, the U.S. Coast Guard Arctic Strategy outlines our strategic objectives to guide our operations over the next ten years.”

Vice Admiral Peter Neffenger is responsible for establishing and providing operational strategy, policy, guidance, and resources as needed to meet national priorities for Coast Guard missions, programs, and services.

The forum will consist of two sessions.

  • Senior Executive Session with VADM Neffenger
    08:00-11:00: This session will focus on the national strategy, strategic objectives, and USCG implementation of U.S. strategy in the Arctic region.
    Note: This session is for senior executives (VP and above) and is limited to one senior executive per firm.
  • Industry Session with CAPT Jon Spaner
    13:00-15:30: Captain Spaner will focus on the three strategic objectives of the Arctic strategy: improving awareness; modernizing governance; and broadening partnerships.
    Note: This session is limited to two representatives from each company.

“During this time of fiscal constraint, the Coast Guard’s Arctic Strategy will have great influence on the service’s overall resourcing and operations, which will also be discussed at the forum,” said Kay Olive, WHSR Director. “This is the first of several sessions with the Coast Guard, hosted by WHSR. Harvey Johnson, a retired USCG Vice Admiral and former FEMA COO, serves as our USCG Advisor.”

Attendance is first come/first served. To register visit here, or contact: Callander Turner, callander.turner@whsroundtable.org