In the heart of the Port of Los Angeles, APM Terminals Pier 400 just hit a home run in the decarbonization game, rolling out the largest fleet of electric terminal tractors (ETTs) the port has ever seen. This isn’t just about swapping out old trucks for new ones; it’s a full-court press on innovation and workforce development that’s got the maritime industry sitting up and taking notice.
Jon Poelma, the Managing Director of APM Terminals Pier 400, didn’t mince words when he said, “This is not just an investment in equipment, it’s an investment in the upskilling of the workforce.” He’s talking about a future where the ILWU workforce isn’t just keeping up with technology but driving it forward. And they’re not doing it alone. Orange EV, the electric vehicle manufacturer, and the Pacific Crane Maintenance Company (PCMC) – Pier 400’s labor and maintenance partner – are all in this together.
The rollout of these ETTs is more than just a green initiative; it’s a blueprint for how ports can decarbonize while empowering their workforce. The three-day training session sponsored by Pier 400 for ILWU Local 13 union mechanics was a crash course in the future. Led by Orange EV technicians, the training covered everything from safety protocols to diagnostics and routine maintenance. It’s hands-on, it’s practical, and it’s exactly what the industry needs to stay ahead of the curve.
Joe Gregorio Jr., President and Chief Operations Officer at PCMC, put it bluntly: “We’re proud to be part of an effort that values upskilling and union craftsmanship alongside much-needed progress to decarbonize supply chains.” This isn’t about replacing workers with machines; it’s about giving workers the tools and knowledge to operate and maintain those machines.
The ETTs themselves are a testament to American ingenuity. Manufactured by Orange EV, these trucks are designed to handle the toughest port duty cycles. With over 1,400 trucks deployed across 300 fleets, Orange EV has proven that electric can outperform diesel in the long run. And with the new electric tractor training program planned at the ILWU-PMA Maintenance & Repair Training Center, the future looks bright for both the environment and the workforce.
But here’s where it gets interesting. This rollout isn’t just about Pier 400; it’s about setting a precedent. The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) is taking notes, and they’re planning to expand access to hands-on instruction for union mechanics. This is a domino effect, and it’s happening right now.
So, what’s next? Well, if this rollout is any indication, we’re looking at a future where ports are powered by clean energy and run by skilled, empowered workers. It’s a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, and it’s a future that’s looking more and more like the present with each passing day. The maritime industry is watching, and they’re taking notes. This is more than just a milestone; it’s a wake-up call. It’s time to get on board or get left behind.