On March 6-7, port industry representatives from throughout the United States, Canada, Latin America and Europe gathered in Oakland, CA, for AAPA’s Smart Ports conference. The program was designed to help both port information management officers and supply chain technology executives confront the challenges of an increasingly digital goods movement industry. In particular, Smart Ports focused on both port digitization and supply chain innovation. 

 

After a welcome from Port of Oakland Executive Director Chris Lytle, attendees heard experts discuss cloud computing and its relationship to port information technology. Additional sessions on March 6 covered the internet of things and mobile solutions for ports and terminals. In the afternoon, conference participants did a deep dive on cybersecurity and heard both the U.S. perspective on legislation and federal regulations and best management practices for ports. 

 

On March 7, Tesla Senior Manager of Business Development and Policy Daniel Witt delivered the keynote address, discussing in depth the company’s Tesla Semi, an all-electric truck with a number of innovative safety and design features. Other speakers that day covered topics including data sharing among supply chain stakeholders, intelligent transportation systems, dashboards and key performance indicators and technology advancements in intermodal transportation.