AAPA Seaports Advisory

August 22, 2024

Join the 34th Annual Operation Clean Sweep to Help Keep San Diego Bay Clean

The Port of San Diego and San Diego Working Waterfront invite the community to join the 34th Annual Operation Clean Sweep on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Volunteers will help remove trash and debris from San Diego Bay at various locations, followed by an after-party on Shelter Island. Last year, nearly 1,000 participants removed over 10 tons of debris, with similar efforts expected this year. Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt and can enjoy food, entertainment, and activities after the event. Registration is open, and early sign-up is encouraged to secure supplies and select a cleanup site.

Ports of Indiana Strengthens Leadership Team with Key Hires and Promotions

Ports of Indiana has announced six new hires and promotions to support its strategic growth initiatives. Key appointments include Autumne Mahone as Vice President of Marketing, Stephanie Vale as Director of Grants and Sustainability, and Jeron Satterfield as Staff Accountant. Additionally, Erica Jackson has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer, with Mark Keen stepping into the role of Controller, and Michelle Keen as Billing and Office Coordinator. CEO Jody Peacock highlighted the team’s diverse capabilities and contributions, noting these additions are vital as the organization prepares for significant growth.

Northwest Seaport Alliance Named Top-Performing West Coast Port in Quest for Quality Awards

The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) was recognized as the top-performing port on the West Coast in Logistics Management’s 41st Annual Quest for Quality Awards. This prestigious honor highlights the NWSA's excellence in delivering high-quality port services, ranking highest in categories like Ease of Doing Business, Value, and Intermodal Network. The award reflects NWSA’s commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. NWSA leaders emphasized that the recognition underscores the alliance's strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, and partnerships that support the region’s economic growth and global trade position.

Port of Virginia Expands Rail Capacity to 2 Million TEUs Annually with Central Rail Yard Completion

The Port of Virginia has completed the expansion of its central rail yard at Norfolk International Terminals (NIT), boosting its capacity to process 2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually by rail. This $83 million project, part of the port’s $1.4 billion Gateway Investment Program, increases rail capacity by 31%, enhancing service to key Midwest markets. The expansion was delivered on-time and on-budget and includes two new rail track bundles and three all-electric gantry cranes. Port leaders highlighted the importance of this project in supporting growing cargo volumes and preparing for future developments like the deeper channel and North Berth expansion.

Organizational Development Resource Group, LLC

Hit a Home Run at Fenway Park!

Get ready to hit a home run on October 30 by joining us at Fenway Park, the iconic Boston landmark and Red Sox home, for the 113th Annual Convention & Expo Port Industry Social. Join industry professionals and colleagues for a night of networking, delicious food, and unforgettable memories in one of the most historic baseball stadiums in the country. Fenway Park Social Sponsorship Opportunities are also available. Contact Kevin Traver to secure your sponsorship today.

In addition to the Port Industry Social, make sure to reserve a spot for an exclusive Fenway tour! Referred to as "America's Most Beloved Ballpark," you'll take in the magnificent view atop the fabled Green Monster that overlooks left field, walk the hallowed walls, and relive legendary moments at the beloved Fenway Park!

RSVPs are required for both special events and can be completed during the convention registration process. If you have already registered to attend the convention, you can log into your registration to RSVP.

AAPA Joins ASPIRE as Industry and Innovation Board Member

The American Association of Port Authorities has joined the ASPIRE National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center as a member of its Industry and Innovation Board (IIB). This partnership aims to enhance collaboration on electrifying roadway infrastructure and integrating ports into a more sustainable transportation system. AAPA President and CEO Cary S. Davis emphasized the importance of this collaboration in advancing environmental, resiliency, and sustainability goals across the maritime and supply chain sectors. ASPIRE's Chief Commercial Officer, Michael Masquelier, highlighted AAPA’s role in driving green infrastructure and supporting sustainable goods movement. This strategic partnership strengthens efforts toward a future-ready global transportation network.

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Case Study - How AI-Enhanced Data Fuels Port Growth

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Port Tampa Bay Receives Approval to Deepen Shipping Channels

This week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved Port Tampa Bay’s General Reevaluation Report (GRR) to deepen its shipping channels from 43 to 47 feet, marking a significant milestone for the port. The deeper channels will enhance the port’s capacity and competitiveness in global trade, fueling economic growth in the Tampa Bay region and beyond. The next step involves seeking congressional approval for the project’s funding. Port Tampa Bay President & CEO Paul Anderson emphasized the importance of this development in maintaining the port’s strategic position. Additionally, Anderson participated in the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council’s ‘State of Tampa’ event, where he highlighted the port’s growth amid the region’s rapid expansion.

Port of Vancouver USA Receives Grant to Purchase Zero-Emission Forklift

The Port of Vancouver USA has secured a $318,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology to replace a 1978 diesel-powered forklift with a new all-electric model. This upgrade aligns with the port’s Climate Action Plan, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to zero-emission equipment. The grant, coupled with $79,568 from the port, supports the ongoing effort to improve air quality and community health. Port CEO Julianna Marler highlighted this step as part of their commitment to more sustainable and efficient cargo operations.

Port of Québec Earns Top Green Marine Environmental Ranking for Sixth Consecutive Year

The Port of Québec has once again achieved the highest levels of environmental certification from Green Marine, maintaining its leadership in sustainable practices for the sixth consecutive year. In 2023, the port reached the top scores across all Green Marine indicators, including air emissions, spill prevention, community relations, and environmental leadership. This recognition highlights the port’s ongoing commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and advancing sustainable development. CEO Mario Girard emphasized the port’s dedication to investing in technologies and initiatives that benefit both the environment and the community.

Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Speaker Series Presents

Keynote Speaker Jason Schenker, Chairman of The Futurist Institute & President of Prestige Economics will speak on Future Trends, Opportunities, and Risks for Port Growth in the Americas at the 113th Annual Convention & Expo on October 27-30 in Boston.

Join the top-ranked economist, bestselling author, and futurist Jason Schenker for a high-energy discussion of the most important trends that will shape the future of port growth in the Americas for years to come. This keynote will focus on critical dynamics in the economy, including growth, inflation, interest rates, the health of consumer and labor markets. The talk will include a non-partisan discussion of the upcoming 2024 U.S. election and its potential policy impacts on trade, taxes, and manufacturing. This discussion will also include an evaluation of global supply chain threats, tariffs, labor market tightness, and evolving trade flows likely to stem from Cold War Two geopolitical risks. Register to attend today.

Path to zero-emissions ports

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Visit the AAPA Career Center for Current Port Employment and Business Opportunities

Managing Director, Economic Development; Seattle, Washington; Port of Seattle

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President and Chief Executive Officer; San Diego, California; Port of San Diego

Chief Human Resources Officer; Tacoma, Washington; Port of Tacoma

EMEA Technical Operations Manager; Dublin, Ireland; Cushman Wakefield Multifamily

Transportation Planning Intern; Tacoma, Washington; City of Tacoma