Click here to view the Fall 2022 class schedule.
Marine Terminal Operations
A Professional Designation Program
This comprehensive training program was developed by the Center for International Trade and Transportation at California State University, Long Beach in collaboration with Marine Terminal Operators (MTOs). The program covers all aspects of terminal operations and increases career opportunities for individuals who either seek entry or advancement into this dynamic industry. Students will gain the critical knowledge and skills required by marine terminal operators worldwide to thrive in this highly competitive environment.
The Marine Terminal Operations Professional (MTOP™) Professional Designation program is taught by industry experts and structured in a flexible format allowing participants to select training areas of interest or to complete all course to earn the Marine Terminal Operations Professional Designation. The designation documents the graduate’s proficiency for either entry level or existing positions in marine terminal operations. This core of knowledge and skills will minimize on the job training requirements and significantly enhances any existing in-house training programs at terminals
Whether you are looking to acquire a broad-based understanding of the complexities of global trade, learn about specific operational considerations, or demonstrate competencies that showcase your qualifications for job opportunities, you can choose an approach that meets your career needs.
Students who successfully complete this program are eligible to receive a Digital Badge from CSULB’s College of Professional and Continuing Education. Each Digital Badge is embedded with a link to secure and specific information confirming that the participant has obtained the necessary skills and competencies as described in the program. The badge also includes the participant’s name, the course title, and date of completion. Badges are shareable and can be uploaded to CVs, resumes, social media profiles, or other digital platforms. Click here to learn more about Digital Badges.
- MTO personnel seeking to enhance their knowledge of various marine terminal operations
- Individuals seeking entry in marine terminal operations
- Those interested in entering or learning more about the field of maritime transportation
- Business or Operations Management graduates seeking employment in the maritime industry
- Engineers, information technology specialists, and consultants providing services to marine terminals
- Military personnel
- Merchant marines
- Industry-relevant, up-to-date curriculum encompassing cargo and passenger terminal operations
- Taught by experienced practitioners and industry leaders
- Networking opportunities
- Enhances opportunity for entry or advancement in the industry
- Convenient and flexible scheduling
- Professional designation can be earned in six months to a year
- Scholarships available.
- The functions of the MTO within the global supply chain and international trade
- The role and functions of the front line manager in the successful and efficient operation of cargo and passenger terminals
- How MTOs are structured and their relationship to ocean carriers, the port complex, and the customers
- How terminals generate revenue
- The role of the labor force
- Technology and its effect on efficiency
- The structure and services performed by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA)
- The importance of labor relations in terminal operations and the role of the labor force
- The responsibilities of terminal operations management in maintaining a safe and secure work environment
- Regulatory and environmental issues related to terminal operations
The MTOP™ professional designation is awarded only by the Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT) at CSULB to those who complete all program requirements, including:
- Complete of all three courses in the program program(meet participation requirements for all weekly topics and pass all quizzes)
- Complete all program requirements within two years of initial program registration
- Completion of the Terminal Development Project, a final group project designed to demonstrate proficiency of all topics covered in the curriculum.
- Present the team project to an industry panel (online students present via virtual meeting software)
- Earn the MTOP Professional Designation and corresponding digital badge
- Students may earn a certificate of completion as a Marine Terminal Specialist for completing all individual courses excluding the Capstone-Terminal Development Project course
Marine Terminal Operations Professional (MTOP)
Instructors
Wray Bartling has sixteen years with Pasha Stevedoring & Terminals. He worked in the pharmaceuticals industry for ten years with Johnson & Johnson and Roche Labs. He has a Bachelor of Science from San Diego State University and a Masters in Business Administration from Pepperdine's Graziadio School of Business.
Wray Bartling,
Procurement & Cost Manager, Pasha Stevedoring & Terminals
John Beghin began his waterfront career in 1999 working for a steamship agency. As an Operations Superintendent for a terminal stevedoring firm, he gained experience in terminal gate, container yard, rail, and marine operations. He became General Manager of Marine Operations at LBCT from 2007 to 2012. He also participated in the design and development of the Pier E terminal, then took the position of General Manager of Labor Relations. He has been a member of the PMA / ILWU Joint Port Labor Relations Committee as well as as the PMA Southern California Area Sub-Steering Committee.
John Beghin,
General Manager of Labor Relations, Long Beach Container Terminal
At the consulting firm West Coast Resource Services, Kristina specializes in occupational safety and health of terminal and stevedore operators. She holds multiple safety certifications and is qualified for various specialized training methods. Previously, Kristina was the Assistant Director of Health, Safety, and Environment at Ports America, the largest terminal operator and stevedore in the United States. She has made several significant contributions to the stevedoring industry regarding safety improvements, and is best known for her work on the Southern California Joint Accident Lashing Subcommittee. She is also the author of “Casey the Container," a children's book about cargo handling. Kristina graduated from the California Maritime Academy and served as Corps Commander in 2003. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation, an Academic Minor in Maritime Law, and a USCG Unlimited Third Mate License.
Kristina Bowden,
President & Owner, West Coast Resource Services, Inc.
Charlie Doucette began his career with LBCT, where he became M&R department manager before transitioning into the operations side of the organization. From 2007-2012, he became General Manager of the terminal, gate and rail operations departments. He was then chosen to head up operations development at the new Middle Harbor Redevelopment Project (MHRP) as the General Manager of the operations process. He has since been promoted to Director of Operations at LBCT and now oversees the operations at both LBCT sites, Pier F and Pier E.
Charlie Doucette,
Director of Operations, Long Beach Container Terminal
Jack Duesler first earned professional experience on the Alaska Marine Highway, the state-run system of passenger and "roll-on/roll-off" (Ro/Ro) cargo vessels that connect many towns in Alaska. Upon returning to Long Beach, he worked out of the local MMP union hall on container vessels. He then pursued a Dynamic Positioning Operator endorsement with a company called J Ray McDermott, which allowed him to advance his license as well as attain his DPO endorsement. Most recently, he settled in with NYK Line in the Ro/Ro division and continues to teaches the Ro/Ro related classes at CSULB. He graduated from California State University Maritime Academy.
Jack B. Duesler,
Area Operations Manager, NYK Line, Long Beach
Gene Harris has 20 years of experience managing and leading terminal operations in the Port of Los Angeles. In his current role, Gene manages a combined budget of over $100 million across operations, and is responsible for the general oversight and implementation of the operational plan; as well as the strategic development and execution of the Yard & Gate department. Gene received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from California Maritime Academy, and his Marine Terminal Operations Professional Program designation from CSULB.
Gene Harris,
General Manager, Yard & Gate Operations, Yusen Terminals LLC
Josh Johnson,
Long Beach Container Terminal LLC
Brandon Lecou manages multiple activities at ANL, including U.S. Break Bulk pricing and feasibility; and is the Senior Manager of Ports and Project Cargo for ANL’s Oceania operations. He entered the logistics industry as a manager with McKesson Pharmaceutical distribution, where he gained experience in Pick/Pack operations, Automation, and ILWU labor management. Then, as an Assistant Operations manager at Pier 400, he ran APM terminal’s container yard and vessel departments before becoming their Break Bulk manager. He then secured a position with Hamburg Sud Shipping Lines as a Regional Operations Manager, where he managed multiple marine terminals on the West Coast. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management from CSULB.
Brandon Lecou,
Senior Manager Ports and Project Cargo, Oceania
Bridgett Lewis has a dual role, overseeing security operations at the nation’s busiest seaport, the Port of Long Beach; and directing operations at the Central California Maritime Coordination Center (MCC) housed at the port’s Security Command and Control Center. Bridgett holds bachelor’s and dual master’s degrees from the University of Akron, Ohio, and a graduate certificate in Human Resources from California State University, Dominguez Hills. In addition, she completed the Safe Communities Institute Executive Fellowship Program for Command Staff at the Sol Price School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California. She is a City of Torrance Commissioner serving as Chair of the Civil Service Commission, serves as the elected Vice-Chair of the Employee Relations Committee, and is a certified mediator.
Bridgett Lewis,
Manager, Security Operations, Port of Long Beach
Ebon Loeb currently oversees the process excellence development and training strategy for the Pacific Gulf Division of Ports America, and helps guide the project management activities of 19 different terminals in California, Washington, Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi by using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies. Ebony started with Ports America as a front-line superintendent in 2007, working with the Rail, Planning, Equipment, Customer Service and Yard Operations.
Ebony Loeb,
Senior Manager, Operational Excellence, Ports America
John S. Melendez has nearly 30 years of experience in stevedoring and terminal operations. He has worked as a stevedore superintendent, Terminal Manager, and Director of West Coast Cruise Operations for Metropolitan Stevedore Company and Metro Cruise Services. He was responsible for managing cruise vessel stevedore operations and cruise terminal operations in multiple West Coast ports. He also served as Facility Security Officer for the World Cruise Center at the Port of Los Angeles; and as Superintendent of Safety for Metropolitan Stevedore Company, where he wrote and implemented the Marine Terminal Safety Policy. John was awarded the U.S. Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and graduated from CSUDH with a Bachelor of Science in Business.
John Melendez,
Sales Coordination Manager, Long Beach Office, Hapag-Lloyd (America) LLC
David Pollard facilitates and delivers improved process solutions to all operations and levels of management. His previous experience includes the Union Pacific Railroad’s Intermodal Container Transfer Facility in Long Beach; and A.P. Moller-Maersk Group as Rail Operations Manager as well as Vessel Operations Manager. He was the Pier 400 Training Manager from 2008 to 2010, when he was hand-picked to manage the Hyundai / CUT sublease integration to Pier 400. David received his undergraduate degree from CSU Fullerton in 2002, and is a 2008 graduate of Leadership Southern California. He currently serves on the Advisory Board for the MTOP program at CSULB.
David Pollard,
General Manager of Continuous Improvement, APM Terminals Pier 400, Port of Los Angeles
Frequently Asked Questions
The Marine Terminal Operations Program (MTOP) provides an overview of marine terminal operations from a West Coast perspective. It teaches students about container terminal operations, break bulk, bulk, and passenger terminal operations. It also covers the operational areas involved in moving cargo efficiently in and out of terminals including Gate & Yard operations, Rail operations, Vessel Planning, Maintenance & Repair.
The MTOP Program is a non-credit professional designation program issued upon successful completion of three courses and a final team project (Terminal Development Project).
The Marine Terminal Operations Specialist (MTOS) provides in-depth information on different aspects of marine terminal operations, resulting in a certificate that signifies your new knowledge and skills. The MTOS is earned by completing these courses:
• Foundations in Global Trade series (includes three courses)
• Overview of Terminal Operations
• Management/Longshore Labor Relations
• Marine Terminal Operations
The Marine Terminal Operations Professional (MTOP) program includes everything in the MTOS educational track, plus a demonstration of what you learned in a final terminal development project. By analyzing a fictitious business case study as part of a team, you can earn the professional designation title.
You must meet attendance and/or participation requirements for each module and pass all the quizzes with 75% or better.
The TDP is a final team project for a fictitious marine terminal. In this project, your team will decide what to do with additional land adjacent to your terminal. You will deliver your proposal in an oral presentation to an industry panel. You will also submit a written report. Upon completion of courses and passing the TDP project, you will earn your MTOP professional designation.
No, classes are designed to be taken in any order, with the exception of the Terminal Development Project, which must be completed concurrently with all other courses or completed afterwards.
In order to register for the Terminal Development Project, you must complete all of the other courses prior to your enrollment in the course; OR be concurrently enrolled to complete all other courses in the same semester as the Terminal Development Project.
The entire program must be completed within two years. The industry is always changing. After two years away from the program, students will be required to re-enroll in the entire program.
No, we do not provide job placement. However, jobs are posted on our website and shared on our CITT Network group on LinkedIn.
Learning extends beyond the classroom, and we encourage students to learn more by attending industry events. The program is taught by instructors from the industry, and you will also take classes with students who work in the industry, which gives you excellent networking opportunities.
No, the program is not available to international students who require a student visa.
All students are required to have access to:
- High-speed internet (recommend at least 5 Mbps up/down; click here to test your Internet speed)
- Updated versions of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
- Hardware
- Windows 10 or Mac computer (recommend less than 4 years old)
- Microphone, speakers, and/or headset
- Webcam
- Software (select links for installation instructions):
Information Sessions
Potential students interested in learning more about the Marine Terminal Operations Professional program are encouraged to attend a free information session. The information sessions include short presentations by a program representative, designed to provide you with an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the program's benefits. Information regarding other transportation industry training programs will also be covered.
Upcoming online-only Information Sessions are below. Click on each date to register for the Zoom meeting. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Scholarships
CITT Scholarships
Numerous scholarships are offered by industry associations and organizations involved in international trade and transportation for students enrolled in programs offered by the Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT). These organizations recognize the need for specialized training and education in this industry. Please use the following links to find information about each of these endowments and scholarship programs.
CITT Endowment Scholarships
Please note: the CITT General Scholarship Application form will be available soon. Click on the links below to learn more about each scholarship.
- Los Angeles Transportation Club Endowment
- Richard Hollingsworth Professional Development Fund
- Marianne Venieris / Harbor Transportation Club Endowment
- Harbor Association of Industry and Commerce Endowment
Other CITT Scholarships
- Containerization and Intermodal Institute (CII) Scholarship
- Kevin Turner CITT Scholarship
- Port of Long Beach
- Intermodal Association of North America (IANA)
Other Logistics Scholarships Available to CITT Students
(Application through Sponsoring Organization):
Students in CITT’s programs are also eligible to compete for scholarships awarded by other industry-related organizations. Application is made directly through these organizations. Please see the links below for more information on eligibility and due dates.
- Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Southern California Roundtable
- WTS-LA
- Institute of Supply Chain Management
Access to IANA Education-on-Demand
In addition to the IANA Scholarship Program, CSULB students may also enroll in programs offered through IANA's Education-On-Demand virtual course offerings free of charge. Information on these educational programs can be found at www.intermodal.org/upcoming-education.
Foundations in Global Trade
This course provides students with an introduction to the intermodal transportation industry, while providing the foundational knowledge required to pursue the Global Logistics or Marine Terminal Operations programs.
Students who successfully complete this program are eligible to receive a Digital Badge from CSULB’s College of Professional and Continuing Education. Each Digital Badge is embedded with a link to secure and specific information confirming that the participant has obtained the necessary skills and competencies as described in the program. The badge also includes the participant’s name, the course title, and date of completion. Badges are shareable and can be uploaded to CVs, resumes, social media profiles, or other digital platforms. Click here to learn more about Digital Badges.
In This Program You'll Learn
- Global freight distribution systems
- Public policy, regulatory environment, and compliance
- Innovations in technology and operations
Class Schedule for Section Number CITT200.(2223-1)
Date | Time | Day | Meeting Type | Location |
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Jul 6, '22 | 12:00PM - 12:01PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Jul 13, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Jul 18, '22 | 6:00PM - 9:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Jul 20, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Jul 25, '22 | 6:00PM - 9:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Jul 27, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 1, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 3, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 8, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 10, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 15, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 17, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 22, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Aug 24, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wednesday | Lecture |
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Aug 29, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 4, '22 | 12:00PM - 12:01PM | Sunday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Marine Terminal Operations Management
More information on this course will be available soon.
Class Schedule for Section Number CITT203.(2224-1)
Date | Time | Day | Meeting Type | Location |
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Sep 10, '22 | 12:00PM - 12:01PM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 13, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 15, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 20, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 22, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Sep 27, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 1, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 3, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Monday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 6, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 8, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 11, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 13, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 15, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 18, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 20, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 25, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 27, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Oct 29, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 1, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 3, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 8, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 10, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 15, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Tuesday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 17, '22 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM | Thursday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Nov 19, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Dec 3, '22 | 9:00AM - 11:00AM | Saturday | Lecture |
Virtual Classroom, Online CSULB Online |
Dec 18, '22 | 12:00PM - 12:01PM | Sunday | Lecture |