Take a look at this year's thoughtful and educational general sessions:
- Plugged In – Connecting Ports to Electric Utilities
- Navigating Environmental Justice in Port Communities
- Powering The World – Shipping US Energy Internationally
- Fostering Global Collaboration with Green Shipping Corridors
- Latin American Port Decarbonization
- Port Chemistry 101 – The Future of Alternative Fuels
- Built to Last – How to Harden Your Port Against Natural Disasters
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The Port of Oakland has received approximately 100 inquiries related to its Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for development of the 50-acre Howard Property. This significant interest reflects developers' engagement with the site’s potential for innovative waterfront concepts, as highlighted by Port of Oakland Chief Real Estate Officer Jonathan Veach. Located between industrial operations and Jack London Square, the Howard Property presents a unique opportunity for projects that could enhance Oakland’s waterfront. A pre-submission meeting and site visit on October 3 attracted 75 attendees, underscoring the property’s appeal. Submissions for the RFQ are due by December 9, 2024.
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The Port of Galveston will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2025 with a series of events highlighting its historic contributions to Texas and the maritime industry. Planned activities include National Maritime Day on May 22, a public “Party on the Pier” on October 17, and a bicentennial gala on October 18. A history book about the port will also be published, capturing the port’s legacy since its founding in 1825. Community partners are invited to contribute their own programs to showcase the port’s role in Galveston’s commercial and maritime history. Further details and updates are available at www.portofgalveston200.com.
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The Port of Everett Seaport has received the 2024 Heavy Lift Port/Terminal Operator of the Year award from Heavy Lift and Project Forwarding International, recognizing its recent investments, commitment to customer service, and environmental standards. With over $150 million invested to modernize its facilities, including the new 40-acre Norton Terminal, the port is poised to play a vital role in the heavy lift and project cargo supply chain. The Norton Terminal redevelopment added critical capacity, supporting local jobs and environmental initiatives. The award highlights the Port of Everett's ongoing contributions to industries like aerospace, construction, and energy
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The Port of Bellingham has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Climate and Air Quality Planning Program to support its Climate Action Strategy. The funding will help identify areas for alternative energy transitions, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance maritime infrastructure sustainability. Key projects include exploring alternative fuel options at Squalicum Harbor, electrification strategies at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, and the potential development of a micro-grid for hybrid and electric vessels at the Bellingham Shipping Terminal. This grant also allows for expanded emissions data collection and community engagement on sustainable operations. The Port has secured over $75 million in grants in recent years to advance economic and environmental goals.
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The Port of Baltimore has secured $147 million from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program to enhance its decarbonization and electrification initiatives, creating new clean energy jobs in the region. This funding will enable the purchase of 213 zero-emission vehicles and equipment, along with upgraded electrical infrastructure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 35% from 2020 levels. Supported by Maryland Governor Wes Moore and President Joe Biden, the investment aligns with the Port’s Destination 2040 plan to increase sustainability while fostering economic growth. The grant also includes community engagement efforts with nearby neighborhoods to ensure positive environmental and health impacts.
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Kevin Beardsley, Chief Financial Officer of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority, earned his Port Professional Manager (PPM) certification from AAPA at the 2024 AAPA Annual Convention. His capstone project focused on capital investment strategies for mid-sized ports, highlighting best practices. The PPM program, established in 1995, provides a comprehensive curriculum in port management, requiring nearly 250 hours of study. Beardsley, a certified public accountant, has been with the Port Authority since 2014 and brings over 30 years of experience in finance to his role. Port Executive Director Deb DeLuca praised Beardsley as a critical asset to the port’s success and regional growth.
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PortMiami has received a $25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s INFRA program to implement an Electrification Project aimed at reducing emissions and modernizing cargo handling operations. The funding will enable PortMiami to replace diesel-powered equipment with electric and hybrid alternatives, including hybrid trucks, electric terminal tractors, dual charging stations, and all-electric reefer outlets at two cargo terminals. This transition supports Miami-Dade County’s 2030 goal to cut emissions by 50% and is part of PortMiami's broader $4.2 billion Capital Improvement Program focused on achieving a net-zero carbon supply chain. The project is expected to create job opportunities and enhance the port's sustainability.
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Port Everglades celebrated the arrival of Princess Cruises’ new Sun Princess with a plaque and key ceremony on October 18, 2024. Port Everglades CEO Joseph Morris and Broward County Mayor Nan Rich welcomed Princess Cruises’ President John Padgett and Captain Paolo Arrigo as the 4,300-passenger ship prepared for the winter season in Fort Lauderdale. The ceremony included notable attendees from local government and port stakeholders, highlighting the strong 65-year relationship between Port Everglades and Princess Cruises. Sun Princess joins Port Everglades for the 2024-2025 cruise season, which is expected to host a record 4.4 million cruise guests.
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The Port Authority of Guam has been awarded $2.4 million from the U.S. EPA’s Clean Ports Program to advance its Net Zero Emissions Strategy Update and Implementation Plan. The grant will support initiatives such as conducting a mobile emissions inventory, developing a resiliency strategy, and creating a workforce development plan, all aligned with Guam's Sustainability and Resiliency Plan. The project is part of the port’s commitment to decarbonizing operations and improving air quality for the community. The Port Authority acknowledges the collaborative support from EPA Administrator Michelle Lastimoza and applauds Vice Chairperson Conchita Taitano’s leadership in sustainability efforts.
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The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) handled 450,700 TEUs in September, a 12% increase from last year, driven by early shipments for the holiday season. The Garden City Terminal West, which opened this year, provides additional storage space, supporting cargo flow for retail and manufacturing sectors. The Appalachian Regional Port set a new quarterly record with over 10,000 containers handled from July to September, aided by the Mason Mega Rail Terminal. At the Port of Brunswick, roll-on/roll-off trade grew by 10%, with the GPA Board approving 50 more acres of paved vehicle storage to support increased demand.
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PhilaPort has received $79.7 million from the U.S. EPA’s Clean Ports Program to support the acquisition of zero-emission equipment, part of a broader commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. The funding will allow PhilaPort to replace older diesel equipment with electric ship-to-shore cranes, yard tractors, forklifts, and an electric rail switcher, as well as install the necessary charging infrastructure. This initiative aligns with PhilaPort's Strategic Plan, Destination 2040, which outlines sustainability and climate goals for the next 15 years. Executive Director Jeff Theobald expressed PhilaPort’s commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable port to benefit the community’s health and environment.
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The Mississippi State Port Authority (MSPA) has been awarded a $1.85 million grant from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program to advance its Roadmap to Emissions Reduction and Resiliency. This funding will support the development of an emissions reduction plan, including assessments of zero-emission technologies, community engagement, and workforce planning for future clean technology implementation. The project, set to start in spring 2025, will establish phased strategies to decrease emissions and improve air quality around the Port of Gulfport. MSPA CEO Jon Nass highlighted the grant’s role in advancing environmental goals that benefit both the port and surrounding communities.
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This year's summit will host 40+ ports from the U.S., Canada, and South America along with 100+ decision-makers comprised of C-suite executives, presidents, vice presidents, directors, and government officials. That makes exhibiting at POWERS an advantageous opportunity for you to showcase your innovative products and services.
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The Port of Palm Beach received an AAPA Lighthouse Award in recognition of its enhanced Summer Internship Program. This marks the port’s first excellence award in the administrative practices category, celebrating a program that offers diverse opportunities in fields like accounting, human resources, IT, and engineering. The eight-week paid internship, funded primarily by port tenants, is designed to equip students from various academic backgrounds with hands-on experience and career confidence. Applications for the 2025 program will open in March 2025.
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The ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles will host a progress update on the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) on November 21, from 1-3 p.m. at Long Beach City Hall. The update will cover the 2023 emissions inventory, advancements in the Technology Advancement Program, and current technology feasibility assessments. Since implementing CAAP in 2006, the ports have significantly reduced diesel particulate matter by 91%, nitrogen oxides by 72%, and sulfur oxides by 98%, with greenhouse gas reduction goals set for 2030 and 2050. Public comments will be welcomed at the meeting to support CAAP’s ongoing implementation.
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Port Freeport has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 35th consecutive year, recognizing its 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental financial reporting, highlighting the port’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Port Freeport's Director of Administration & CFO Rob Lowe and Port Commission Chairman Ravi Singhania praised the finance team’s dedication and professionalism in meeting rigorous national standards year after year. Port Freeport ranks as a major hub for crude oil, natural gas liquids, and chemicals exports, with significant economic contributions nationally and locally.
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Michael Angell
Journal of Commerce
Bill Mongelluzzo
Journal of Commerce
As Ships Grow and Seas Rise, Ports Consider Raising the Roof
Hayes Gardner
Baltimore Sun
Maritime Logistics Professional
Jennifer A. Dlouhy
Bloomberg
Maritime Executive
Maritime Executive
Michael Angell
Journal of Commerce
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14
Nov 2024
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Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET
For more information or a link to attend, please contact AAPA staff liaison, Liz Mancini.
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20
Jan 2025
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This summit brings together passionate industry leaders from around the globe to explore the transformative power of purpose-driven innovation in the port industry, focusing on sustainable growth, resilience, and practical solutions for profitable operations.
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18
Mar 2025
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The AAPA Legislative Summit is the premier port industry government affairs and advocacy forum held annually in Washington, D.C. and will take place March 18-20, 2025.
The summit brings together senior port executives from around the nation with federal government leadership to discuss issues important to one of the most critical national industries. AAPA plans and manages private meetings with Congressional leadership for our port executives as part of this event.
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