Resolve Marine Forms Government Relations Department
, with a primary focus on the United States and Canada. He will also oversee government business development and project mobilization and de-mobilization, personnel supervision, vessel operations, salvage and diving operations and logistics.Baumann brings decades of experience in both the naval and maritime industries. Having served as naval diving officer and the U.S. Navy’s Director of Ocean Engineering, Supervisor of Salvage and Diving, he led numerous national and international maritime salvage disaster responses during his military career. After retiring from the military, he joined CACI
McVea Tapped to Lead the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Virginia McVea has been named as the next chief executive officer of the U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) effective April 3, 2023.Damien Oliver has been serving as the MCA's interim CEO since October 2022, following the retirement of the agency's former head Brian Johnson.U.K. Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said, "[McVea] joins at a pivotal time for the agency as it faces both challenges and exciting opportunities, and I look forward to working with her to grow the U.K. flag, decarbonize the maritime sector and encourage greater investment in the U.K."McVea was previously
Shipping Industry Urges UN to Help Free Seafarers Trapped in Ukraine
The maritime industry is urging the United Nations to help free hundreds of seafarers and dozens of ships that remain trapped in Ukrainian waters a year after Russia's invasion.In a letter to UN Secretary General António Guterres, an international group of shipping companies and organizations urgently called for diplomatic efforts toward the immediate release of the 331 seafarers still trapped on 62 vessels in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov."Our seafarers are the heart of our industry and cannot be forgotten. For 12 months now they have been caught up in a crisis far beyond their control.
Crowley Names Heil VP, Government Relations
Crowley has appointed Clay Heil as vice president of global government relations, where he will lead the company’s full spectrum of government advocacy across all of the company’s business interests and activities.Based in Washington, D.C., Heil will spearhead Crowley’s engagement with federal, state and local government partners and elected officials on policy and regulatory matters that support the company’s strategic growth. Heil joins Crowley with more than 25 years of legislative and legal experience. In Congress, he worked in the U.S. House of Representatives and
New Zealand Navy Idles Ships as Labor Crisis Hits
quarantine facilities.Minister of Defence Peeni Henare acknowledged in an email that staff losses were hurting the Defence Force, but said the government was committed to rebuilding it.“There is more still to do,” he said.The country is replacing its fleet of C-130 cargo planes and P-3 maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), and the first of four Boeing P-8A Poseidon MPA is due to arrive this month. Plans for a new military vessel built for Southern Ocean and Antarctic conditions were shelved this year.($1 = 1.5838 New Zealand dollars)(Reuters - Reporting by Lucy Craymer. Editing by Gerry Doyle
Rear Adm Nunan First Woman Appointed USMMA Superintendent
The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Maritime Administration announced the appointment of Rear Admiral Joanna M. Nunan (U.S. Coast Guard, Ret.) as the next superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). Nunan, who spent more than three decades in the U.S. Coast Guard, has commanded units at every level both afloat and ashore. She will begin work at the Academy in a few weeks.Rear Admiral Nunan retired earlier this year as the Coast Guard’s Deputy for Personnel Readiness. In that role, she oversaw the Coast Guard’s entire personnel enterprise, including the recruitment
Chris Hughey Named FMC General Counsel
U.S. federal Maritime Commission Chairman Daniel B. Maffei announced Phillip C. “Chris” Hughey has been hired as the General Counsel of the Federal Maritime Commission and appointed to be a member of the Senior Executive Service.In his capacity as General Counsel to the Commission, Hughey will provide legal advice and recommendations to the Chairman and Commissioners on regulatory and policy matters. He will serve as a member of the agency’s senior management team and will also be responsible for supervising the work of attorneys assigned to the Office of the General Counsel.Hughey
Tindall-Schlicht Named Seaway Administrator
The White House announced President Biden's appointment of former Milwaukee port director, Adam Tindall-Schlicht, as the next Administrator of the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS). Tindall-Schlicht resigned his position at Port Milwaukee on October 19.An agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the GLS is responsible for operation of U.S. portions of the St. Lawrence Seaway. It works in partnership with it's Canadian counterpart to maintain a safe, reliable and environmentally responsible deep draft waterway connecting Great Lakes ports with world markets
Linda S. Harris Crovella Named Administrative Law Judge
Chairman Daniel B. Maffei announced today the hiring of Linda S. Harris Crovella to serve as an Administrative Law Judge of the Federal Maritime Commission.Judge Crovella joins the Commission after serving as an Administrative Law Judge with the Social Security Administration in Richmond, Va. and Buffalo, N.Y. for the past six years. Prior to joining the Social Security Administration, she worked at the National Labor Relations Board as a Field Attorney, investigating and litigating unfair labor practice charges, working in the Buffalo, Boston, and Brooklyn Regional offices before transferring to the
Germany Aims to Train More Inland Waterways Boatmasters
. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport will support both training programs through its Funding of Initial and Continuing Training in the German Inland Waterway Transport Sector Program."We will also support the new option of a skills development program for career changers (e.g. from the maritime shipping sector) with a minimum duration of 9 months by funding the costs for the training provider," Luksic said.Digital course formats, such as live online learning, blended learning and online self-study, will be available for crew members of inland waterway vessels who want to continue
UKHO Appoints Marion Leslie as Non-Executive Chair
in marine geospatial data that supports defense and global shipping, while helping customers and partners to unlock a deeper understanding of the world’s oceans and coastal environments. The UKHO serves Defense and wider government, has a thriving navigation business and is developing future maritime products and services.Working closely with the UKHO Chief Executive and executive leadership team, the Chair and the Board offer support and challenge to ensure that there is a clear focus on transformation, increasing revenues, building partnerships and exploring new markets.Away from the UKHO
TWIC Renewals Now Available Online
11, 2022, current TWIC holders are able to renew their credentials online, which eliminates the need to go to an enrollment center for most applicants, including U.S. citizens, nationals and lawful permanent residents, and makes the five-year renewal process more convenient.TWIC is required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act for mariners and workers who need access to secure areas of the United States’ maritime facilities and vessels. Jointly administered by TSA and the U.S. Coast Guard, TSA conducts a background check to determine a person’s eligibility and issues the credential
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Names New Chief Executive
Singapore's Ministry of Transport announced that Teo Eng Dih will take over as chief executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), succeeding Quah Ley Hoon, who will step down on September 5, 2022.Teo Eng Dih, currently Deputy Secretary (Policy) of the Ministry of Defense (MINDEF), is responsible for MINDEF’s defense policy and diplomacy, strategic and public communications, and Total Defense. He oversaw the expansion of defense cooperation with international partners and strengthening of collaborations at the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) platform. He also
Brandi Smith Named VP of Newport News' Columbia-Class Program
Global defense and technologies company HII announced Thursday that Brandi Smith has been named vice president of the Columbia-class program at the company’s Newport News Shipbuilding division. Smith will succeed Charles Southall, who will retire July 1 after more than 35 years of distinguished service.The U.S. Navy has identified the Columbia class as its No. 1 acquisition priority. Twelve Columbia-class boats will replace the fleet of Ohio-class nuclear ballistic submarines and take over the role of the nation’s sea-based strategic deterrent; these submarines will provide the most
Ann Phillips Confirmed as Next MARAD Administrator
The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed Ann C. Phillips as Administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), filling a position that has been left vacant at the Department of Transportation (DOT) since January 2021. Phillips was confirmed by a vote of 75-22.Phillips, a retired U.S. Navy rear admiral, takes over as head of the DOT's maritime agency amid continued shipping and supply chain disruption as well as historic levels of government funding for maritime and port infrastructure projects. She succeeds Mark Buzby, who resigned from the role in the wake of the insurrection at the U.S.
Adm. Fagan Nominated as First Female USCG Commandant
President Joe Biden nominated Adm. Linda L. Fagan to serve as the 27th Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. Upon confirmation, Adm. Fagan will be the first woman to serve as Commandant of the Coast Guard.Adm. Fagan currently serves as the 32nd Vice Commandant, having assumed the duties on June 18, 2021. The Vice Commandant is the Vice Service Chief and Chief Operating Officer, responsible for executing the Commandant’s Strategic Intent, managing internal organizational governance, and serving as the Component Acquisition Executive.Previously, Adm. Fagan served as Commander of the Coast Guard
Crowley Hires Jadotte as SVP of Government Relations
Marcus Jadotte has joined Crowley as senior vice president of government relations, leading the company’s advocacy activities across all its businesses.Jadotte will spearhead the company’s continuing advocacy for laws and regulations that support the domestic maritime industry, while expanding awareness of Crowley’s growing defense and civilian government services among federal, state and local officials. He will be based in Washington, D.C.Jadotte comes to Crowley after his tenure as vice president of federal government relations at Raytheon Technologies. He previously held similar
Hareide Named Norway's Director General of Navigation and Shipping
Knut Arild Hareide has been appointed by the King in the Council of State as Director General of Navigation and Shipping for the Norwegian Maritime Authority for a period of six years. Hareide will take up the role on January 1, 2022."We are delighted to congratulate Knut Arild Hareide on his appointment and look forward to working with him in the years to come," says Acting Director General of Navigation and Shipping, Lars Alvestad.The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries announced the appointment on November 12."The Norwegian Maritime Authority works to help strengthen Norway's
New Bill Aims to Address Sexual Misconduct in the Merchant Marine
A group of U.S. Senators has introduced new legislation aiming to strengthen sexual assault/sexual harassment (SASH) prevention, response, investigation and accountability in the maritime industry and provide additional safeguards for the Midshipmen at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA).The Improving Protections for Midshipmen Act is being put forward by Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) after the United States’ federal maritime academy paused at-sea training for the second time in five years amid ongoing struggles to grapple with
Ingalls Names Norris Director of Government Affairs
America’s largest military shipbuilding company Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) announced on Thursday that its Ingalls Shipbuilding division has named Jack Norris as director of state and local government affairs.Norris will lead all state and local government relations efforts in support of the Pascagoula, Miss. shipbuilder’s strategic goals and will collaborate with community and economic development partners, HII said.“Jack has a strong government relations background that includes 20 years of experience managing public policy and supporting economic recovery and growth
MARAD Announces Maritime Training Centers of Excellence
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) on Wednesday announced the designation of 27 Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE), recognizing community colleges and training institutions that prepare students for careers in the U.S. maritime industry.“Our collaboration with these institutions represents an important expansion of MARAD’s role in supporting maritime education and will help form pathways to good-paying American jobs in our nation’s maritime industry,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary
UK Hydrographic Office Appoints Peter Sparkes as Chief Executive
lead the organization’s important work in supporting safe, secure and thriving oceans. This includes the UKHO’s work in support of Defense and merchant shipping. Working in close collaboration with national and international partners, the organization will also continue to develop ADMIRALTY Maritime Data Solutions to support the responsible and sustainable use of our marine environment.Commenting on his appointment, Sparkes said, "It is an enormous privilege to have been selected to be the U.K. Hydrographic Office’s permanent chief executive. I am delighted to be able to continue
SAFE Boats to Reopen Tacoma Shipyard for Naval Build Program
material and associated pre-production and planning support with the remaining $80 million award anticipated in June.SAFE Boats’ Tacoma facility situated alongside the deep-water banks of Commencement Bay is an idea site to manufacture and launch the 85-foot Mark VI. The contract will add 75 new maritime workers to the shipbuilder’s Tacoma workforce.Leadership from local elected officials and economic development partners paved the way for the expansion enabling SAFE Boats early access to information and support during its due diligence phase. A project team from the Economic Development Board
Crew Change Hubs Could Help Address Seafarer Crisis, Says MAJ
A global network of crew change hubs would help alleviate the humanitarian crisis seafarers face at present, according to the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ).They could offer a short-term solution to the barriers presented by global travel restrictions, ensuring vital crew changes could take place and facilitating trade and logistics to the benefit of the world economy, the Flag State advised.Rear Admiral (ret’d) Peter Brady, MAJ Director General, explained, “In the Caribbean for example, several smaller States still have not reopened their borders, so no one is coming in and no one is
Wolfson Takes the Helm at Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Captain Dianna Wolfson took the helm Friday as the 110th commander of Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) and first female leader in its 253-year history.Wolfson also holds the distinction of becoming the first female commander of any of the nation’s four public shipyards when she assumed command in June 2019 of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF).This marks her third NNSY tour, with previous assignments as Operations Officer and Project Superintendent for the USS Newport News (SSN 750) Engineered Overhaul.NNSY, a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command
Top Maritime Trends 2020: Owners and Operators can Do the Right Thing for Seafarers
incumbent on owners and operators to undertake crew changes despite the bureaucratic obstacles and added expense. They did not tie up their vessels when the price of bunkers rose. Rather, they adapted. That same type of adaptation is called for now.The International Labor Organization (ILO) adopted the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006) and virtually every nation has become party thereto. That convention provides, among other things, that the maximum duration of service periods on board following which a seafarer is entitled to repatriation shall be less than 12 months. When the COVID-19 global pandemic
MARAD Accepting Applications for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) said Tuesday it is accepting applications from eligible and qualified institutions to apply for a Centers of Excellence (CoE) designation, which will recognize and support community or technical colleges and maritime training centers that prepare Americans for careers in the maritime industry.“These educational institutions benefit America’s national security and economy by growing and strengthening our maritime workforce,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.The CoE Program is a voluntary
Cyprus Names New Shipping Deputy Minister
Vassilios Demetriades has been appointed as Cyprus' new Shipping Deputy Minister, the country's president Nicos Anastasiades announced as part of a cabinet reshuffle. The seasoned maritime policy expert, known for his extensive work within the shipping industry and contributions to the European Union (EU), joins the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry effective July 10.Since the ministry's inception in March 2018, the Cyprus flag has grown to become the 11th largest merchant fleet worldwide and the third largest fleet in the European Union. Cyprus now flags more than 1,100 oceangoing vessels
UKHO Taps Sparkes as Acting Chief Executive
The U.K. Hydrographic Office has announced the appointment of Rear Admiral Peter Sparkes, the current U.K. National Hydrographer and Deputy Chief Executive, to the position of acting chief executive and accounting officer.Sparkes will hold the position while a permanent replacement is sought for Tim Lowe CBE, the previous UKHO chief executive and accounting officer, who announced his retirement Friday.Commenting on Lowe’s retirement, Sparkes said, “On behalf of the senior leadership team and all at the U.K. Hydrographic Office, I want to acknowledge and thank Tim for the significant
New Bill Aims to Secure Grant Funding for Maritime Training
A new bill introduced in the U.S. aims to make available $200 million in grant funding for community and technical colleges offering training programs for maritime industry professions. The legislation H.R. 7456 was introduced by Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (Texas-29) alongside Rep. Don Young (Alaska-At-Large), Rep. Anthony G. Brown (Md.-04), Rep. Brian Babin (Texas-36), and Rep. Steven Palazzo (Miss.-04).“Maritime industry jobs are a critical part of our nation’s economy. Yet research has shown that there may soon be a shortage of maritime industry workers,” said Congresswoman
The Emerging U.S. Offshore Wind Industry in a Post-COVID-19 World
into service within four years of starting construction – a timetable that may be increasingly challenging due to COVID-19-related delays. Recently, the Treasury Department has signaled to Congress that they will be looking at possible modifications to this rule.So what does all this mean for the maritime sector? Offshore wind has been tantalizing the industry for years now, and it’s no wonder why. The American Wind Energy Association predicts that the offshore wind projects could create up to 83,000 jobs and $25 billion in annual economic output by 2030. Already, the AWEA reports, companies
Gulf Copper Hires Irelan
Ship repair and marine services firm Gulf Copper & Manufacturing has hired Robert “Bob” Irelan as Director, Federal Business Development.In his new role, Irelan will leverage his experience doing business with the federal government to head up Gulf Copper's government services business development, focusing primarily on the federal market. Ireland previously served as a Naval Officer for over 25 years, including the command of three different U.S. Navy vessels. He brings a broad experience of federal government contracting together with the Navy’s maintenance planning
Reiss Named Director of NOAA's Ocean Prediction Center
director of NOAA’s Ocean Prediction Center (OPC) in College Park, Maryland. OPC provides marine forecasts and critical decision support services for mariners, ensuring the safety of lives and vessels at sea by alerting to hazards like hurricane-force winds and high seas.“The nation’s maritime shipping industry is a $2.1 trillion economic activity for the U.S., making accurate and reliable weather forecasts at sea economically critical,” said Grant Cooper, Ph.D., acting NCEP Director. “A.J.'s maritime expertise, leadership acumen, and reputation for building interagency
India Okays Model Pact on Seafarers
unilateral recognition of seafarers' competency certificates, thus easing the process for them to seek employment on ships under the flag of that country.The decision was taken at a meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This will pave the way for mutual recognition of maritime education and training of seafarers by the countries involved.“The Cabinet has approved a model MoU with foreign countries for unilateral/bilateral recognition of Certificates of Competency of seafarers,” a government official said.Indian Seafarers, therefore, will be eligible to be
Offshore Wind Jobs Act Headed to House Floor
of the blue economy,” said Congressman Keating.“And, there are already important programs being launched to develop the workforce needed for the offshore wind industry. In my home town of Bourne, the unveiling of the first in the nation Offshore Wind Training Facility at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy put a unique piece of training infrastructure that will allow students a place to train on the specific safety procedures required by the industry," he added
Senator Mulls Offshore Wind Job Pact
Senator of Massachusetts Edward J. Markey has called on Ørsted and Vineyard Wind to enter into Project Labor Agreements (PLA) for wind energy projects offshore Massachusetts and the larger East Coast.A PLA would ensure that newly created jobs in the offshore wind industry are good-paying and safe, and that jobs would be filled with a highly skilled local union workforce.Massachusetts has set a goal of procuring 1600 MW of offshore wind under a 2016 renewable energy law, and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources recently laid out a plan to solicit an additional 1,600 MW of offshore
Maritime Schools Must Prep for Offshore Wind Jobs
& maintenance of an offshore wind energy project.” The program has a budget of $1.2 million for 2020.Massachusetts awarded $721,500 earlier this year to six academic institutions for offshore wind workforce training and development programs. One of the recipients is the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, which put the award towards funding construction of an offshore wind crew transfer training facility and establishing the GWO courses. The Academy aims to be the first institution in the United States to offer the GWO courses.New York is working with the private industry to create an Offshore
UK Invests in ‘Maritime and Me’ Diversity Program
UK Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani has pledged £730,000 (about $910,000) in Government funding to increase diversity, well being and skills in the maritime sector, including £100,000 (about $125,000) for a new scheme in which girls aged 11 to 14 will be paired with inspiring women from the maritime sector to teach them about the range of careers available to them before they make their choice of subjects for their final school examinations with the aim of having more young women opt for STEM subjects and related career paths.The Minister also announced funding to better understand and
Maritime Fatigue: Just another band aid?
On 24 January, the IMO issued updated guidelines on fatigue. This is just another in a long series of band aids that attempt to cover over the problem without providing a solution. Fatigue is a long-standing weakness in the maritime industry. It is recognized as a major or contributing causal factor in the majority of maritime casualties. As is well-known, fatigue is caused by a lack of sleep and relaxation. These, in turn, are the result of too few people being tasked with too much work. Guidance on how to recognize and manage fatigue is meaningless. The root
RMT Concerned Over Offshore Wind Policy
The UK's offshore trade union RMT has raised concerns over the impact on workers from today's Government offshore wind energy strategy.RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash said: “RMT is concerned that the offshore wind industry has already adopted a regressive business model based on subcontracting and deregulation. Costs cut on that basis are a completely false economy and inhibit job creation.“We need high employment and safety standards across the offshore energy sector, ensuring that UK law applies and is enforced for all current and future energy workers on the UK Continental Shelf.
Indian Seafarers Employment Soared 35% in 2018
increased from 72,052 to 109,108. The number of Indian seafarers had earlier gone up from 103835 in 2013 to 126945 in 2015.This phenomenal growth in the number of Indian seafarers has been possible due to a series of measures taken by the Government in the last four years to improve the standards of maritime training, increase on-board training opportunities, improve the examination and certification system and facilitate ease of doing business.The training curriculum for the officers and the ratings were revised in 2016 not only to meet the global standards but also to meet the expectations of the
India: Seafarer Jobs Growth whopping 42.3%
unprecedented growth of 42.3 per cent shipboard jobs for Indian seafarers.The seafarers employed on ships worldwide increased from 108446 in 2013 to 154349 in 2017.India now provides 9.35 per cent of the global seafarers and ranks third in the list of the largest seafarer supplying nation to the world maritime industry."The Ministry of Shipping has strived to improve employment generation in the Shipping sector during the last four years," said Union Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya.He further added, "the number of trained active seafarers today is 154,000, of which 4700
Government Shutdown: USCG Update
To mitigate the impact caused by the partial lapse in appropriations and shutdown of National Maritime Center (NMC) operations, the following updated actions are being taken:• Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) (National Endorsements only) and Medical Certificates that expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019 are extended as valid until April 30, 2019. Print letter and carry it with your credential.• Additional Information (AI) letters, sent to mariners that expire in December 2018, January 2019, or February 2019 are extended to April 30, 2019.• Approval to Test (ATT)
Europe to Fund ‘SkillSea’ Project in Maritime Sector
The European Commission said it will co-finance the project ‘Futureproof Skills for the Maritime transport sector (SkillSea)’.The project aims to develop strategies to identify and meet the future skills needs of the maritime sector and attract greater numbers of Europeans to work in maritime industries. The four-year project will begin in January 2019.SkillSea is being launched by a Europe-wide consortium established by the industry's recognised social partners, the European Community Shipowners' Associations (ECSA) and the European Transport Workers' Federation (ETF)
USMMA Class of 2022 Sworn into USNR
The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point welcomed the Class of 2022 into the U.S. Navy Reserve Saturday in a parade and ceremony at Tomb Field on the Academy grounds. The Class was sworn in on behalf of the U.S. Navy by Capt. Steven Urwiller, USMMA ‘94, the Director of Military Sealift Command’s Reserve Affairs and Military Manpower.The parade and ceremony marked the end of formal activities for Parents Weekend 2018, with eligible Plebes and Midshipmen heading off the Academy for liberty. This is especially important to the Class of 2022 because it is the first time they
Croatian Shipyard Workers to End Strike, Future Uncertain
Workers at Croatia's largest shipbuilding group Uljanik, who have been on strike for more than a week, began receiving their delayed July salaries on Friday and are set to return to work on Monday.Union leaders and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, whose government struck a deal with a local bank, confirmed the payments for some 4,500 workers at the docks, located in the northern Adriatic cities of Pula and Rijeka.Last Monday the workers protested in Zagreb demanding the government's help.Despite the funds secured for July and August salaries, in line with the government's promise, uncertaint
Maritime Minister Visits Port of Liverpool
Peel Ports welcomed Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani MP to its flagship container terminal Liverpool2 on Wednesday as the terminal prepares to welcome its largest regular caller to date when 2M (Maersk and MSC alliance) introduces a new transatlantic container service to the port.The Minister met with Chief Operating Officer Patrick Walters and received a tour of the port, as well as meeting with workers from varying roles across the container terminal.Walters said, “Workforce diversity is very important to us, blending attributes and skills enables our people and our business to perform to their
Great Lakes Shipping Supports 237,000 Plus Jobs
activity.A year-long study of the economic impacts of the entire Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway navigation system is a definitive and detailed report documenting the many contributions made by the Great Lakes Seaway system to federal, state/provincial and local economies.The study reports that in 2017 maritime commerce supported: 237,868 jobs, $35 billion in economic activity, $14.2 billion in personal income and local consumption expenditures and $6.6 billion in federal, state/provincial and local tax revenue.The study also highlights the specific economic benefits of key navigation infrastructure, such
InterManager Supports IMO’s Annual Day of the Seafarer
The physical and mental well being of seafarers must be given priority by ship managers – said InterManager Secretary-General Capt Kuba Szymanski to mark Day of the Seafarer. As June 25th marks the IMO's annual celebration of seafarers, InterManager, the international trade association for third party and in-house ship managers, is happy that focus is being placed on the well being of seafarers, as good mental health can lead to fewer accidents and increased productivity. In line with this ethos, InterManager has been supporting a year-long project being carried out by
S.Korea: Five Shipbuilding Regions get "Industry Crisis" tag
South Korean Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon said on Tuesday the government will designate five key shipbuilding centres on the country's south coast as "industry crisis" zones eligible for economic support. The areas include Dong-gu in the city of Ulsan, Geoje-si of Kyong-nam province and Jinhae-gu of Changwon, as well as Tongyeong and Mokpo in the southwest coast. These areas are home to heavy shipping and shipbuilding companies and have struggled with high unemployment in recent years. A copy of the minister's speech released from the ministry showed the government
MLC Enters New Chapter’ for Seafarers' Rights
The ITF has welcomed the positive outcome of the third meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee of the ILO (International Labor Organization) in Geneva. The STC has agreed on a new amendment to the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) 2006 and will now be submitted to the next session of the International Labor Conference for adoption.The amendment, when it enters into force, will address a potential contractual gap for those seafarers who unfortunately fall victim and are held captive on or off a ship as a result of an act of piracy or armed robbery against ships.The seafarers’ wages and other
HII, KBR to Manage Aussie's Naval Shipbuilding College
, a joint venture between HII’s Technical Solutions division and Kellogg Brown and Root’s (KBR) Government Services division, to establish and manage Australia’s new Naval Shipbuilding College. This effort is in support of Australia’s mission to recapitalize its shipbuilding and maritime sustainment industry over the next several decades. In announcing the request for proposals in 2017, Minster of Defence Industry Christopher Pyne emphasized that the Naval Shipbuilding College is a unique organization with one national purpose to “ensure the required workforce is
US Women Dockworkers Accuse Shippers, Union of Discrimination
interview. Another woman with a complicated medical history said she tried to work during pregnancy for fear of losing seniority and suffered a miscarriage, according to her complaint. The dockworkers made the allegations with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission against the Pacific Maritime Association, which represents major shippers and terminal operators, as well as the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), one of the women's lawyers said. Gillian Thomas, an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer representing the women, said the claims could ultimately involve
Vanderhaden Named USCG Master Chief Petty Officer
The U.S. Coast Guard announced Tuesday Command Master Chief Jason M. Vanderhaden has been selected as the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard. The Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard is the service's most senior enlisted member and advises the commandant on matters related to the enlisted workforce. In addition, Command Master Chief George Williamson was selected as the seventh Reserve Force Master Chief of the Coast Guard. Vanderhaden and Williamson will assume their offices May 17, 2018, during a Change of Watch ceremony in Washington, D.C. Vanderhaden currently
Australia Bans Containership over Unpaid Wages
Liberian-flagged containership MSC Kia Ora has been banned from Australian ports for three months after the operator failed to ensure crew were paid their wages in full and on time, and that critical equipment was maintained. The ban was issued by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), who inspected the ship in the Port of Brisbane on March 14, 2018 after receiving a complaint which alleged that crew had been underpaid. During the inspection AMSA found evidence that crew had been underpaid from November 2017 to February 2018 and were owed more than AU$53,000 (US$40,800).
NOAA Taps Graham to Lead National Hurricane Center
Kenneth Graham has been selected to serve as the next director of NOAA’s National Hurricane Center in Miami, as preparations continue ahead of the 2018 hurricane season, which begins on June 1. He will assume this new role on April 1. “The forecasts in last hurricane season were 25 percent more accurate than average, and with new satellites and other measures they are undertaking, we are very hopeful to keep improving the timeliness and accuracy of our forecasts,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Ken will be a great leader of the Department’s efforts in
Ponstein Appointed on Port of New Orleans Board
from the company in 2006 to focus on the motorsports business. The Board consists of seven commissioners. They are unsalaried and serve five-year staggered terms. The Governor of Louisiana appoints members from a list of three nominations submitted by 19 local civic, labor, education and maritime groups. The Board reflects the three-parish jurisdiction, with four members from Orleans Parish, two from Jefferson Parish and one from St. Bernard Parish. Ponstein represents St. Bernard Parish; Chairman Chouest and Past-Chairman Barkerding represent Jefferson Parish; and Vice Chairman
Kwan re-elected vice chair, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority board
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority board of directors has re-elected Eugene Kwan as vice chair for a third term commencing March 25, 2018. Mr. Kwan was appointed to the board of directors by the federal minister of transport as recommended by the Port User Group Nominating Committee. Mr. Kwan is also a member of the Governance and Stakeholder Relations Committee and the Major Capital Projects Committee. The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s board of directors is composed of 11 members: one federal appointee; one British Columbia provincial appointee; one appointee for the Prairie provinces of
MCA’s CEO Massey to Retire by End 2018
Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) chief executive Sir Alan Massey announced he plans to retire from the role before the end of 2018. The Department of Transport will begin its search for Massey’s successor on March 19. Massey will continue in his role until late 2018 to allow the chief executive appointment process to take place. Massey joined the MCA in July 2010 after a 33-year career with the Royal Navy, where he left as Second Sea Lord. During his eight-year tenure at MCA, Massey steered the agency through changes to modernize Her Majesty’s Coastguard, new
NOAA Names Pentony Atlantic Fisheries Administrator
NOAA has named Michael Pentony as the new Regional Administrator for the Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office in Gloucester, Mass. He will assume his new duties on January 22, 2018. Pentony has been with the agency since 2002, serving in a series of positions including as the Assistant Regional Administrator for the Sustainable Fisheries Division since 2014. He succeeds retiring Regional Administrator John Bullard who had been in the position since 2012. Pentony will head the agency’s regional office, which has responsibility for managing approximately 100,000 square
17 Keppel Employees Pay for Petrobras Bribery Case
Keppel Corp's rig-building unit has taken disciplinary action against 17 current and former employees as part of its Brazil bribery case, a U.S. court document showed, including $8.9 million of financial sanctions, demotions and departures. The measures were revealed after the Singapore-based company agreed to pay $422 million to settle charges it bribed Brazilian officials, including some at state-run oil company Petrobras. Singapore authorities are investigating individuals involved. In the document seen by Reuters, U.S. authorities listed remedial measures taken by Keppel Offshore &
UK Shipping Seeks to Double Seafarer Training Fund
. The letter was also sent to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond and the Minister of State, Department for Transport, John Hayes. The UK Chamber, in conjunction with Nautilus International, has submitted a proposal for the Government's existing Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) scheme to be extended. “The Government’s review of SMarT recognised that change was necessary and recommended the level of support should increase from £15 million to around £30 million annually, to be competitive with other European Countries&rsquo
France Approves of Siemens/Alstom Tie-up if Jobs Spared
France has nothing against a potential tie-up between German engineering group Siemens and Alstom if the deal does not bring job cuts, the French government's spokesman said on Friday. Earlier on Friday, Le Monde newspaper reported Siemens was in advanced talks to combine its rail activities with Alstom in a deal that could be announced on Sept. 26. "It is important that we can strengthen our industrial sectors ... in partnership with Germany," government spokesman Christophe Castaner told journalists in response to a question about the tie-up. "There is no concern on the
Australia Bans Bulker for Underpaying Crew
A Panama flagged bulk carrier, DL Carnation, has been banned from entering Australian ports for a period of 12 months after authorities uncovered a scheme which saw the vessel’s crew being intentionally underpaid. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) said it received a complaint on Friday, September 8 via the International Transport Workers’ Federation alleging discrepancies in the payment of wages for the crew of the DL Carnation. An AMSA surveyor attended the vessel in Gladstone and found that the ship was operating with two sets of wage accounts on board: one
O&G Market Study to Examine UKCS Skills
A major new in-depth labor market analysis of the oil and gas industry is to be carried out to determine the conditions of the sector and to shape a new skills strategy for the continued success of the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) over the next 20 years. Led by safety, standards and workforce development organization, OPITO, the project will be carried out by the Robert Gordon University’s Oil and Gas Institute. The intelligence will be used to deliver an overarching plan that identifies and supports the skills requirements for the industry over the next two decades to ensure the workforce of
Abu Dhabi Ports Celebrates Emirati Women’s Day
and are working side by side with their male counterparts to the success of the country.” Last year, in commemoration of Emirati Women’s Day, Abu Dhabi Ports announced the launch of its first Women’s Committee. The committee aims to reinforce the unique role women play in the maritime industry, as well as the wider local community. Earlier this month, Abu Dhabi Ports also celebrated the graduation of the first three Emirati women ‘Masters of Coastal Waters’ from Abu Dhabi Ports Maritime Training Centre. The women graduated as masters (Captain) of 24-Meters
Oliver Named Assistant Administrator for NOAA Fisheries
Chris Oliver has been selected by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, with concurrence from the White House, as assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries. As assistant administrator, Oliver will oversee the federal agency responsible for recreational and commercial fisheries that contribute more than $200 billion to the nation's economy and support nearly two million jobs. In addition to managing productive and sustainable domestic fisheries, including some aspects of marine aquaculture, the agency works to recover and conserve protected resources such as whales, sea turtles and corals.
