Shaping the Future of Ports, Trade, and Supply Chain Innovation
The Southern California Maritime & Logistics Symposium (SCMLS) 2025 brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of California’s maritime and logistics sectors. This premier event provides insightful discussions on workforce development, supply chain innovation, port security, and regulatory compliance—critical areas for ensuring the resilience and competitiveness of Southern California’s trade infrastructure.
Event Details
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Location: UCLA South Bay
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, and Networking Refreshments
Key Panel Discussions & Speakers
Beyond the Docks – Leading the Next Era of Port Operations & Workforce Development (10:30 AM – 11:45 AM)
This session will explore strategic workforce planning, leadership in port operations, and innovation in talent development to ensure the region’s maritime industry remains competitive.
Speakers:
- Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer, Port of Long Beach
- Erica M. Calhoun, Deputy Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Port of Los Angeles
Luncheon Keynote: The Power of Public Opinion in Trade & Logistics (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
An engaging keynote discussion on how public perception, data-driven research, and policy influence decision-making in the maritime and logistics industries.
Speaker:
- Justin Wallin, Principal, J Wallin Opinion Research
The Evolving Supply Chain – Intermodal Innovation, Infrastructure, and Market Strategies (1:45 PM – 2:45 PM)
A deep dive into the latest trends in trucking, rail, and port collaboration, and how policy and infrastructure investments are reshaping goods movement across California.
Speakers:
- Matt Schrap, CEO, Harbor Trucking Association
- Otis Cliatt, President, Pacific Harbor Line
- Michael DiBernardo, Deputy Executive Director, Marketing & Customer Relations, Port of Los Angeles
The Strategic Role of California’s Niche Ports – Innovation, Growth, and Regional Impact (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
California’s smaller ports play an essential role in regional trade, sustainability, and economic development. This panel highlights how the Ports of Stockton and Hueneme are leading in specialized logistics, infrastructure expansion, and green port initiatives.
Speakers:
- Kirk DeJesus, Port Director, Port of Stockton
- Kristin Decas, CEO & Port Director, Port of Hueneme
Why Attend?
✔ Hear from top maritime and logistics leaders shaping the industry
✔ Gain insights into regulatory and policy trends impacting the sector
✔ Expand your professional network with key stakeholders and decision-makers
