AAPA Adds Security Seminar to Schedule of Programs

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has added a seminar on port security to its industry-leading schedule of education and training programs. This AAPA Security Seminar, the third in two years, is set for July 30 through Aug. 1 at the Sheraton Los Angeles Harbor in San Pedro, Calif. "With security being by far the No. 1 priority for seaports today, we believe it is vital that we dedicate an entire 2½-day seminar to the myriad issues surrounding port security," said Kurt J. Nagle, President of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). "AAPA's extensive array of education and training programs is highly regarded for providing invaluable information on the latest trends and developments impacting seaports in the Western Hemisphere, and the AAPA Security Seminar will further enhance that role." The AAPA Security Seminar will bring to an even dozen the number of annual conferences, seminars and related programs offered by the association. The AAPA Security Seminar becomes the eighth required or elective offering in AAPA's Professional Port Manager (PPM) certification program. Also, in addition to its annual convention, AAPA sponsors a Spring Conference, Commissioners Seminar and Port Directors Seminar.

Other PPM elements include programs focusing upon: Cruise; marine terminal management; facilities engineering; executive management; port operations/safety risk management and information technology; public relations and maritime economic development; and port administration. The PPM designation is intended to enhance professionalism of port management and assist public port authorities and agencies in hiring or promoting qualified senior-level seaport executives.

AAPA's seminars, including those that are part of the PPM program, are open to anyone with an interest in the seaports of the Western Hemisphere. The registration cost for the AAPA Security Seminar is $510 for AAPA members and $625 for nonmembers. To register, phone 703-684-5700. AAPA Port Security Chairman, Capt. Ralph Tracy, Port of Los Angeles, announced several topics on the agenda for the AAPA Security Seminar. These include: Credentialing, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, International Maritime Organization (IMO) security standards, the role of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, funding for security programs, cruise port regulations and the training of security personnel. A limited number of tabletop exhibit opportunities also are available for the AAPA Security Seminar. Those interested may call Edward L. O'Connell, AAPA's Director of Membership Services, at 703-706-4709.