Los Angeles, CA – August 23, 2024 — The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) continues to enhance its geographic impact by expanding its Regions Initiative, aimed at advancing the maritime industry, environmental protection, and workforce development. On August 14th, NAMEPA successfully launched its California Region with a gathering and workshop hosted by the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) and supported by The Pasha Group and Port of Long Beach. The event united industry leaders, educators, and community stakeholders to exchange insights and collaborate on regional priorities.
Participants heard from Jack Hedge of The Pasha Group, who shared industry best practices and sustainable initiatives, and Alex Parker from California State Maritime Academy, who discussed efforts to close gaps in ocean literacy and workforce skills through hands-on learning. Additionally, Madeline Stewart and Claudia Lundberg from the LA STEM Collective shared insights into the work the collective does to ensure equitable access to educational experiences for young people across Greater Los Angeles.
During the workshop portion of the event, participants engaged in an in-depth discussion about the key factors influencing the value proposition of the maritime industry, particularly around workforce development, upskilling, and attracting the next generation. The conversation centered on identifying areas of strength, challenges, potential opportunities for growth, and external factors impacting the industry. Insights were shared on how to better equip current maritime professionals with essential skills while creating pathways to inspire and engage young talent, ensuring a robust and sustainable future for the maritime sector.
To conclude NAMEPA’s first California Regional Gathering and Workshop, participants joined a tall ship cruise around the harbor. This experience allowed attendees to see firsthand the pilot service in action, ships entering the harbor and the unloading process that follows.
NAMEPA is excited to announce its next Regional Gathering and Workshop, scheduled for Friday, September 20th, at Port Everglades. Registration details will follow soon. This event will continue NAMEPA’s focus on fostering impactful dialogue and collaborative action to advance maritime sustainability and community engagement.
For more information about NAMEPA and its initiatives, please visit www.namepa.net
Contact: Molly Dushay, Executive Director, North American Marine Environment Protection Association (m.dushay@namepa.net)
About North American Marine Environment Protection Association
The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) is a maritime industry-led organization of environmental stewards preserving the marine environment by promoting sustainable marine industry best practices and educating seafarers, students and the public about the need and strategies for protecting global ocean, lake and river resources. For more information visit www.namepa.net.