Saltchuk strengthens commitment to Puerto Rico
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The Saltchuk Group is partnering with the University of Puerto Rico at Mayag\u00fcez (<\/a>UPRM) and the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico<\/a> (PUPR) to establish two programs focused on transportation and logistics. These initiatives seek to develop skilled professionals, enhance industry research, and support long-term economic and social progress on the island.<\/p>\n Saltchuk says that its investment in these programs reinforces its long-standing dedication to Puerto Rico, where its companies \u2013 including TOTE Maritime<\/a>, Tropical Shippin<\/a>g, Puerto Rico Terminals, Aqua Gulf, and StratAir \u2013 play a major role in the island\u2019s supply chain and global trade connections.<\/p>\n Saltchuk has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UPRM to establish the first Center of Excellence for Transportation and Logistics (CETL) in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. The center will develop academic programs, promote applied research, and foster industry partnerships to strengthen Puerto Rico\u2019s talent pipeline in the transportation and logistics sector.<\/p>\n \u201cWe recognized a need to create an opportunity for Puerto Ricans to pursue a graduate degree in Transportation and Logistics within Puerto Rico, and we identified UPRM as the leading institution that can make this happen,\u201d said Mark Tabbutt, chairman of Saltchuk. \u201cThe enthusiasm and vision at UPRM made our commitment an easy decision.\u201d<\/p>\n With an initial $1 million investment and a conditional pledge of $10 million over 10 years, Saltchuk will support the CETL\u2019s efforts to expand academic offerings, conduct industry- focused research, and create new career pathways. The CETL will be guided by an expert advisory board and led by UPRM\u2019s industrial engineering professor Dr. H\u00e9ctor J. Carlo.<\/p>\n In parallel, Saltchuk has partnered with Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico (PUPR) to launch a Talent Development Program designed to equip students and professionals with the specialized skills required for careers in transportation and logistics.<\/p>\n This initiative will enhance PUPR\u2019s associate degree in Supply Chain and Logistics, offering targeted training, industry certifications, internships, and apprenticeships.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough this collaboration, we aim to empower a new generation of professionals in transportation and logistics, creating pathways for education and career development that will benefit individuals, businesses, and the economic development in Puerto Rico, \u201d said Tabbutt.<\/p>\n Saltchuk has committed an initial investment of $200,000 to launch the program, with PUPR will also modernize its curriculum and collaborate with industry employers to establish registered apprenticeships that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training (OJT). Additionally, PUPR will invest in faculty development, and integrate an Industry Advisory Council to conduct regular consultations, identify essential certifications, and ensure the curriculum aligns with current industry needs and demands.<\/p>\n \u201cAs we approach our 60th anniversary, we take great pride in this partnership with Saltchuk,\u201d said Ernesto R. V\u00e1zquez, President of PUPR. \u201cThis collaboration will open avenues for faculty and students to contribute solutions that strengthen Puerto Rico\u2019s role in high-tech manufacturing and supply chain logistics.\u201d<\/p>\n Both programs are set to launch later this year.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n The post Saltchuk strengthens commitment to Puerto Rico<\/a> appeared first on Marine Log<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
additional funding over the next 10 years tied to key performance milestones, bringing the total contribution to $2 million.<\/p>\n