Key Topics

By Sen. Susan M. Collins (R-ME) Ranking Member and Former Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Two years ago, a radioactive container packed in Saudi Arabia arrived in the bustling seaport of Genoa, Italy, according to last November’s edition of Wired. The port in Genoa is similar to some of the 361 seaports in the U.S.: it ...

By Bethann Rooney Chair, AAPA Port Security Caucus Prior to 9/11, security was not a top concern for most U.S. ports. That has changed. Enhancing maritime security and protecting our ports from acts of terrorism and other crime while ensuring the efficient flow of commerce remains a top priority for the members of the American Association of Port Authorities. Security ...

By John Schwartz TWIC Program Manager Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) biometric credential is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiative to ensure only vetted workers gain unescorted access to secure areas of a port or vessel regulated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act. To obtain a TWIC, individuals provide biographic ...

In separate interviews with AAPA Seaports Magazine, executives of leading suppliers of port security technology – each an exhibitor at the American Association of Port Authorities’ Port Security Seminar and Exposition held July 18-19, 2012, in Miami – shared their insights on the current and future roles of high-tech solutions to the port security imperative. Non-Intrusive, Quick, Accurate Cargo Inspections ...

By Lori Musser Interim Editor AAPA Seaports Magazine Twentieth century window-dressing style port security efforts have gradually given way to thorough,thoughtfully designed and vigorous seaport situational awareness command and control programs. But not without a struggle. And the work to cultivate strong seaports continues. The work has been made more difficult by the evolving definition of a safe and secure ...