Features

There is no shortage of challenges, uncertainties and unknowns on the horizon; however, there is one thing I do know. AAPA’s core mission of connecting and informing seaports is unchanged.

For ports, looking ahead is a serious business. They have to build enough flexibility into their long-term planning and preparations to be ready for a variety of possible scenarios – and not just build for the moment.

Like metal to magnets, supply chains zero in on massive population and consumption centers, and high-volume production belts. Should seaports be concerned with demographic-driven shifts in these freight hotspots?

The port industry serves as a critical cog in the economies of the Western Hemisphere, while maintaining a comparatively low profile in the public’s imagination. In recent years, however, port officials say that has changed.

The maritime industry in the Western Hemisphere is indirectly affected by national economies all around the globe. A look at shifting trade patterns and liner shipping consolidations can provide some insight into how other economies directly affect us and which nations are more likely to have an impact.

Jean Godwin, AAPA’s executive vice president for almost 30 years, is stepping down from this role in April – while staying on as AAPA’s general counsel. She shares some beautifully refreshing and insightful perspectives in this candid interview.

Collaboration Brings Generational Benefits * By Lori Musser * Once in a very long time, a seaport may have the chance to champion a project that brings benefits that will last for generations. By all accounts, this year is proving to be Port Tampa Bay’s turn. The Big Bend Channel expansion is already delivering economic prosperity to the community, and ...

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK: Ports Behind the Scenes *  By Kurt J. Nagle, President & CEO, American Association of Port Authorities * As public port authorities, AAPA’s members are highly visible organizations. First, they are government agencies, which means they operate in the full sunlight of open meetings, live webcasts, public hearings and other opportunities for members of the public to ...

To grow, seaports have to selectively invest and update. But they can’t do it alone. They call on firms – ranging from global EPCs to small niche contractors – that specialize in helping bring port capital projects to fruition. * By Lori Musser * To grow, seaports have to selectively invest and update. Whether ports are deepening waterways, building capacity, ...

When it comes to port negotiations, what turns ‘maybe’ into ‘yes’? Sometimes, a seemingly insignificant driver can bring a deal to the tipping point. For ports, a single agreement can represent hundreds of thousands of dollars: So what makes the difference between deal or no deal? * By Sarah B. Hood * What makes a person dec­ide to sign a ...