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The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has developed a new professional certificate program, in conjunction with ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University’s Center for Advancement in Port Management. The Industry Recognized Port Certificate (IRPC) provides industry newcomers and junior-mid level port staff with fundamental knowledge of the port industry and introduces participants to AAPA and the greater port professional community.

“President Evans had been to the state legislature to ask if there existed an advanced degree for all the ports and terminals along the Sabine and Neches, the answer was no,” said Erik Stromberg, executive director of the Center for Advances in Port Management at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University. “I have been in the industry for 35 years and recognize that this is a problem that needed a solution. So, when Evans came up with the certificate program to answer the need in Southeast Texas, he was also responding to the needs of the industry as a whole.

“Because the program is online our target demographics are working professionals across the nation who are new to the industry or looking to advance their careers,” said Stromberg. “We are happy with our collaboration with the AAPA in the establishment of this program.”

Stromberg will teach all participants the first course, “Introduction to Port Management.”  “The class covers every aspect of ports and transportation at a very high level, I rely heavily on industry experts to come in and help deliver lectures,” said Stromberg. “This class is viewed by the AAPA as the centerpiece of their IRPC. Part of the class will also include a term project, which asks students to develop a career plan with their employer.

“Students will have to think about how they see their growth at their new company and the port. They then take an APA seminar and get their IRPC. We just went public a few weeks ago and there are already a dozen people interested.”

According to Stromberg the benefits of the certificate program will not only affect the port industry and economy of Southeast Texas, but the nation as a whole.

“To the industry, the benefits are that they get what the APA is asking for, an introductory program that gives new hires a better background on the expanse of the industry,” said Stromberg. “This is of national importance but also important to the Southeast Texas region. It is paramount that we have the industry, and its people, better prepared. For ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ, this reflects a wonderful partnership with the port industry and shows that we deliver what the industry needs.”