The University of Houston Supply Chain and Logistics Technology program students will gain real world insight from two guest lecturers in the Transportation Economics and Policy online class, Wednesday, June 24, 7:00 p.m.
Guest speakers, Lori Ann LaRocco and Ian Barclay will discuss how freight forwarders and third party logistics companies are managing trade wars, COVID, and carrier disruptions. LaRocco is senior editor of guests, CNBC News, and author of several books including Trade War-Containers Don’t Lie, Navigating the Bluster; Opportunity Knocking, Dynasties of the Sea: The Untold Stories of the Postwar Shipping Pioneers, Dynasties of the Sea: The Shipowners and Financiers Who Expanded the Era of Free Trade, and Thriving in the New Economy. Barclay is director of Sub Saharan Africa, at UTC Overseas, Inc. and former president of Safmarine.
“We are living in an exciting time where uncertainty ignites opportunity. The maritime industry has proven to be nimble in responding to COVID-19. The flow of trade provides the tea leaves to the global economy. By identifying the trends we are seeing today will help us navigate our tomorrow,” said LaRocco.
Barclay said, “Logistics has always been about adaptation to new factors, and COVID-19 is just another one of those factors that we now have to consider. What has occurred in its wake, however, is an interesting round of innovation and risk mitigation to streamline our processes and keep cargo moving. During a time of such rapid change and growth, I am delighted to share my experience and encourage students to enter into a career in this industry.”
Marco Poisler, adjunct professor and chief operating officer, Global Energy and Capital Projects, UTC Overseas, said, “As global trade is operating in the unchartered territory of a COVID-19 world, it is relevant that University of Houston students hear from leaders operating on the front line of global trade.”
Margaret Kidd, instructional assistant professor and program director of the UH supply chain and logistics technology program said, “I am proud that our faculty have made online learning purposeful and meaningful. Houston is a recognized global logistics hub for capital project cargo, also known as breakbulk cargo. Students choose this degree plan for the real world experience and access to industry leaders. Many students who graduate with a B.S. degree join the world of third party logistics providers and engineering, procurement, construction (EPC) companies. On a global, national, and regional scale, our program is unique as we are recognized for producing today’s skilled workforce and tomorrow’s innovative leaders.”