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SC Ports welcomes 2022-2023 Port Ambassadors

[ October 17, 2022   //   ]

South Carolina Ports welcomes its 2022-2023 Class of Port Ambassadors, kicking off a yearlong program that provides a deep understanding of how SC Ports benefits South Carolina’s economy.

The 2022-2023 Class of Port Ambassadors — an esteemed group of 31 professionals from around the state — will get an in-depth look into port operations. Ambassadors will tour marine terminals, inland ports and customers’ facilities. They will hear from SC Ports teammates, port customers and elected leaders.

Port Ambassadors see firsthand how SC Ports supports the supply chains of many businesses, including retailers, advanced manufacturers, healthcare companies and agricultural producers.

“Our Port Ambassador Program gives South Carolinians a behind-the-scenes look into how our port works and the vital role our maritime community plays in keeping freight moving for Southeast supply chains,” SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin said. “We are proud to showcase how having a top 10 U.S. container port in South Carolina supports businesses and creates jobs.”

The 2022-2023 Class of Port Ambassadors kicked off with a recent visit to SC Ports’ headquarters in Mount Pleasant. Ambassadors learned about key infrastructure projects and day-to-day operations. They toured Wando Welch Terminal and ventured up 155-foot-tall ship-to-shore cranes to gain the perspective of a crane operator loading and unloading ships.

“It is so impactful for our Port Ambassadors to see how port operations support 1 in 10 jobs in South Carolina,” said Jordi Yarborough, SC Ports’ senior vice president of statewide stakeholders and local government engagement. “We are thrilled to have such an impressive and diverse group of South Carolina leaders learn more about the port, and we are fortunate to benefit from their expertise as well.”

The Port Ambassador Program is designed to increase public awareness and support for SC Ports’ strategic plan and initiatives. Since launching the program in 2016, 113 ambassadors have graduated.

Participants are selected from nominations by the Review and Oversight Commission on the State Ports Authority, SC Ports Board of Directors, SC Ports senior management team and County Council chairs from around the state.

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