Workforce

GUEST ARTICLE: Shipping Contributions to Seafarers’ Welfare

In the beginning of 2016, Michael Skaggs, NAMMA’s Director of Programs, began exploring port levies and voluntary contributions for seafarers’ welfare. The research results point to a stark financial future for seafarers’ welfare providers without the active support of port authorities. Read more… Dr. Jason Zuidema, Executive Director, NAMMA

Read More »

The Slippery Slope: Ethical Considerations in Port Business Decisions

The Slippery Slope — Ethical Considerations in Port Business Decisions By Lori Musser Improving corporate behavior in a way that positively impacts the world is becoming everyone’s responsibility. Seaports with good corporate citizenship devote more time to the business at hand and spend less time in hot water. Recognizing that, port leaders are looking to ethics as a strategic resource ...

Read More »

A Paradigm Shift

Technology trends in automation are changing how work is done at ports and terminals By Kathy A. Smith As automation begins to play a larger role at port terminals in order for seaborne trade to move faster, the impact will undoubtedly be felt by the labor workforce as jobs become less labor-intensive and more computer-based. Yet this paradigm shift won’t ...

Read More »

Port Education and Training Programs for the Next Generation

By Lori Musser Brute strength and a cast-iron stomach were prerequisites for a port or maritime job in days gone by, but today’s employees are more likely to need to speak multiple languages or hold an advanced degree in cybersecurity. Ports and port partners, such as those who operate terminals, equipment, vessels and inland transportation, focus on a broad range ...

Read More »

The Value of Awards for Ports

Recognition from the government, community peers and industry partners showcase best practices By Kathy A. Smith Receiving awards and recognition from peers, regulatory, governmental and community organizations can go a long way to continually improving a port’s track record in several areas. “Awards showcase best practices,” said Aaron Ellis, public affairs director of the American Association of Port Authorities. AAPA’s ...

Read More »

Welcoming Veterans to Port Ranks

Two ports are finding ways to assist military members with transition to civilian employment. By Meredith Martino While the economic downturn of the past several years has hit all job seekers hard, veterans and members of the military transitioning from soldier to civilian roles have been the focus of particular attention in the United States. As service members end tours ...

Read More »

PPM® Certification Readies Executives for the Top

AAPA’s Professional Port Manager program prepares to graduates its first class since implementing new guidelines four years ago. By Sarah Sain The American Association of Port Authorities PPM® (Professional Port Manager) program is ready to graduate its first class under new guidelines implemented in 2010. This new graduating class will be more ready than ever to serve and lead the ...

Read More »

Evolving TWIC Program Explained

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 ...

Read More »