AAPA Cargo Optimization Seminar Balances Cargo Growth, Community Outreach

AAPA President Kurt Nagle with Molly Campbell, PPM, Port Commerce Director of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, at the opening to last week’s AAPA Cargo Optimization Seminar in Jersey City, NJ
Photo/Aaron Ellis, AAPA

At AAPA’s Cargo Optimization Seminar – held June 7-8 in Jersey City, NJ, and hosted by the by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) – the notion of improving port infrastructure and supply chain flows without first engaging a port’s residents and community leaders was roundly dispelled.

"Cargo goes where it is welcome," remarked seminar presenter Joe Ruddy, chief innovation officer for the Virginia Port Authority. Referring not only to a port’s ability to provide an efficient, cost-effective movement experience for shippers, Mr. Ruddy was also referencing the benefits of getting community support for those movements.

More than 120 government, port and freight industry executives took part in the two-day conference, which offered insights into enhancing cargo opportunities and efficiencies while gaining community acceptance and "buy-in" for freight projects. During the conference, participants enjoyed spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline from their conference hotel on the west bank of Hudson River, along with "showcase" exhibits from five of the program’s seven sponsors.

Kathy Broadwater of the Maryland Port Administration making a point during her presentation
Photo/Aaron Ellis, AAPA

"The Port Authority of NY & NJ was pleased to be selected to host the first ever Cargo Optimization Seminar," said Bethann Rooney, assistant director of the Port Authority’s Port Commerce Dept. "As evidenced by the quality of the presentations, robust Q&A sessions and dialogue during breaks and meals, it was evident how timely, relevant and critical the topic areas are for all AAPA members and partners. The opportunity to share lessons learned with your colleagues has proven once again to be invaluable."

In addition to PANYNJ (which also sponsored a harbor boat tour on June 6 for members of the AAPA Public Relations Committee), seminar sponsors included: New York Shipping Association; Moffatt & Nichol; Advent Intermodal Solutions; Qualico Steel Company, Inc.; Power Pool Plus, and; OMC International.

Review the seminar topics, speakers and their presentations.

Rapt audience during a seminar session
Photo/Aaron Ellis, AAPA