Issue link: https://pma.uberflip.com/i/1355890
2020 spotlighted the resilience of West Coast ports and the value of cooperation. In the span of just a few months, the West Coast maritime industry both adapted to the complex challenges of COVID-19, then managed a historic surge in cargo volumes when imports from Asia rebounded with a vengeance. This was an extraordinary year by any measure, but one that reaffirmed the strength and flexibility of PMA member companies and the value of ILWU/PMA cooperation to get the job done no matter how big the obstacle. Through an uncertain and fast-changing climate, shippers and West Coast ports continued to fuel millions of jobs and businesses, along with the local, regional, and national economies they support. Ongoing infrastructure investment, enhanced safety measures and expedited training helped West Coast ports weather an unprecedented chapter in modern American history — and sustain its mantle as the nation's preeminent gateway for international trade. In 2020, the world watched as the Grand Princess cruise ship circled off the San Francisco Bay, with dozens of confirmed COVID-19 cases onboard. The episode marked the nation's de facto introduction to the pandemic, putting an abrupt pause on the West Coast's booming cruise business, and bringing the challenges of COVID-19 to the front door of the ILWU, PMA, and its member companies. We moved quickly to create workplace safety protocols, and to procure and distribute tens of thousands of units of personal protective equipment to ILWU members. We agreed with the ILWU to clean terminal equipment after each use. We also created portals both for self-reporting COVID-19 symptoms and to ensure ILWU members who fell ill and were quarantined still received pay from the industry. Importantly, the PMA and ILWU worked cooperatively with government officials to advocate that longshore workers receive vaccine priority as essential workers. Throughout the cargo surge, and despite an uptick in COVID-19 cases, the ILWU workforce handled record levels of cargo – a surge that extended into 2021. If this past year has revealed anything about the West Coast maritime industry, it's the fortitude and adaptability of our member companies and ILWU workers. We must channel that same spirit to support the continued vitality of West Coast ports, now and in the years ahead. Sincerely, James C. McKenna President and CEO TO OUR STAKEHOLDERS 3 PACIFIC MARITIME ASSOCIATION