Ships anchored offshore at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
2020 | THE YEAR IN REVIEW
THE COAST
West Coast ports remained a high-octane economic driver despite
extraordinary challenges in 2020. In a year of whiplash that repeatedly
thrust the maritime industry into the spotlight, PMA rose to the call, dealing
with the supply chain congestion and expanding safety measures during
the COVID-19 crisis.
As the pandemic first gripped the nation in the first quarter, the PMA and
its members secured personal protective equipment for ILWU members
and implemented equipment sanitation procedures. Steep volume declines
in the second quarter gave way to a surge in the third and fourth quarters,
fueled by a flood of Asian imports as the economy regained its momentum.
In the face of these challenges, PMA-ILWU training programs adapted to
increase the available skilled workforce to respond to the demand onslaught.
A fast-tracked training program focused on the training of crane operators,
preparing them for important work in a pressing moment.
Away from the ports, PMA kept its members and other industry leaders
in the loop. After launching in late 2019, the PMA Twitter account,
@WestCoastPorts, continued to inform and connect with stakeholders.
The account surpassed 2,800 followers, posting the latest developments
that matter to PMA and its members.
Although volatile and unexpected challenges defined the year, West Coast
ports banded together to respond to the demands of a pandemic that
tested us all.
Please read on.
13 13 PACIFIC MARITIME ASSOCIATION
