California State University, Long Beach
Center for International Trade and Transporation
 

Marine Terminal Operations Professional
A Professional Designation Program

This comprehensive training program was developed by the Center for International Trade and Transportation at California State University, Long Beach in collaboration with Marine Terminal Operators (MTOs). The program covers all aspects of terminal operations and increases career opportunities for individuals seeking entry into this dynamic industry. Students will gain the critical knowledge and skills required by marine terminal operators worldwide to thrive in this highly competitive environment.

The MTOP™ program is structured in a modular format allowing participants to select training areas of interest or to complete all modules to earn the MTOP™ professional designation. The designation documents the graduate’s proficiency for entry level and existing positions in marine terminal operations, minimizes on the job training requirements, and enhances existing training programs.

Who Should Attend?

  • MTO personnel seeking to enhance their knowledge of various marine terminal operations
  • Logistics personnel seeking frontline management opportunities in a maritime setting
  • Those who wish to enter the field of maritime transportation
  • Business or Operations Management graduates seeking employment in the maritime industry
  • Military personnel
  • Merchant marines
  • Longshore
  • Engineers, consultants, and information technology contractors providing services to marine terminals

You Will Learn:

  • The role and functions of the frontline manager in the successful and efficient operation of cargo and passenger terminals
  • How MTOs are structured and their relationship to ocean carriers, the port complex, and the customers
  • How terminals generate revenue
  • The role of the labor force
  • Technology and its effect on efficiency
  • The function of the MTO within the global supply chain and international trade
  • The structure and services performed by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA)
  • The importance of labor relations in terminal operations
  • The responsibilities of Terminal Operations Management in maintaining a safe and secure work environment
  • Regulatory and environmental issues related to terminal operations

Special Features and Benefits:

  • Industry-relevant, up-to-date curriculum encompassing cargo and passenger terminal operations
  • Taught by experienced practitioners and industry leaders
  • Networking opportunities
  • Enhances opportunity for entry or advancement in the industry
  • Convenient and flexible scheduling
  • Program is evaluated and supported by a prestigious industry advisory board

How to Receive the MTOP™ Professional Designation:

The MTOP™ professional designation is awarded only by the Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT) at CSULB to those who complete all program requirements including:
  • Successful completion of all five program modules
  • Successful completion of a portfolio project designed to demonstrate proficiency of all topics covered in the curriculum
  • Completion of all program requirements within two years

Benefits of the professional designation:

  • Recognition of professional development
  • Opportunity for career advancement
  • Evidence of mastery of marine terminal operations knowledge and skills
Instructors:
Eli Bohm, Chris Caswell, Jeremy Ford, Eric Freed, Jeff Gould, Kevin Hayes, Samuel Jebananthan, Brenda Martin, Carolyn Martin, John Melendez, David Pollard, and Steve Ruggiero

SAVE! $250

Enroll in the entire MTOP program.

Module 1: Overview of Terminal Operations

This module will cover maritime port operations for cargo and passenger terminals and the role of the frontline operations manager. Students will gain an overview of different types of cargo handled at different types of terminals, the facilities required, and the labor needed to efficiently move cargo. An overview of the industry, the relationship to intermodal transportation systems, and the role of the MTO in world trade and global supply chain will be covered. The class will visit a marine terminal.

Topics Include:

  • Operations management responsibilities
  • Governance and administration
  • MTO productivity and operational challenges
  • The role of technology
  • Personnel safety and security issues
Instructors:
Jeremy Ford, Jeff Gould, and Carolyn Martin

Module 2: Management/Longshore Labor Relations

This module will cover the history of labor movement in terminal operations in the U.S. and how it has shaped the labor force on the west coast. Students will gain an understanding of the unique culture of management and labor relations, how to manage by contract, and what it takes to get the job done. This module will emphasize the importance of good communications and good relations between management and labor in a union environment with the ultimate goal of increasing productivity to retain jobs and cargo at the ports.

Topics Include:

  • The role of the PMA--how the PMA represents employers and how they work with the ILWU
  • ILWU and understanding the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA)
  • The effects of poor, good, and great communication
  • Negotiation and conflict resolution as it pertains to the grievance procedure of the CBA
Instructor:
Samuel Jebananthan, Senior Manager, Labor Relations, Pacific Southwest Region, APL Limited.

Module 3: Marine Terminal Operations- Container Terminals

This module will cover the core departments of container terminal operations including gate, container yard, vessel, rail, maintenance and repair and the role of the frontline operations manager. Students will learn what it takes to get a container into the terminal, the role of the stevedore, how to work a vessel, managing and planning double stack rail operations, efficient management and use of available real estate, and how to keep equipment safe and reliable. Students will gain an understanding of how containerized cargo is received, stored, and distributed to meet the customers’ needs.

Topics Include:

  • Entry and departure into the terminal
  • Productivity measures
  • Terminal operating systems, technology and customer service
  • Managing labor
  • Safety and security
Instructors:
Eric Freed,  Director, Yard/ Gate Operations, APM Terminals Pacific Ltd.
Kevin Hayes, Senior Vice President, Long Beach Container Terminal, Inc.
Brenda Martin, Senior Manager, Planning & Coordination, International Transportation Service, Inc.
David Pollard, Training Manager, Pier 400, APM Terminals Pacific Ltd.

Module 4: Marine Terminal Operations - Break Bulk, RoRo, Bulk, and Cruise Terminals

This module will provide students with an understanding of the specific operational issues involved in the handling of specialized cargo and passenger terminal operations. Students will learn the role of the frontline operations manager specific to vessels, equipment and skilled personnel required to properly and efficiently move cargo to meet customers’ demands.

Topics Include:

  • Types of vessels and particulars
  • Vessel stow plans and cargo load lists
  • Coordination of vessel loading and discharge sequences
  • Managing labor
  • Safety and security
Instructor:
Chris Caswell,  Assistant Vessel Operations Manager, Pasha Stevedoring and Terminals.

Module 5: Regulatory & Environmental Issues / Safety & Security

Students will gain an understanding of the role of the frontline operations manager in handling cargo flow while maintaining a safe and secure work environment. The importance of accident prevention and required training on the waterfront and the implications of enforcement of safety and security on labor relations will be covered. Students will also learn about terminal safety issues, port and cargo security initiatives and public agencies involved.

Topics Include:

  • Regulatory environment and safety and security initiatives
  • Coordination of the terminal operator between government and port security agencies
  • Facility security planning
  • Safety issues and compliance
Instructor:
Steve Ruggiero