If 2020 taught us anything, it is we need to be prepared for the unpredictable. On Friday, March 13, 2020, like many other industries and businesses across North Carolina, the United States and the world, North Carolina Ports made the critical decision to implement changes to ensure the safety of our employees. A portion of our workforce began to work remotely while front-line employees remained on-site to ensure critical cargo and needed supplies continued to flow. Despite the lack of a playbook for what the world was facing, contingency plans were reviewed and actions implemented.
This year also taught us the importance of communication. We recognized quickly the need for seamless communication between our employees, suddenly working remotely, and our customers, facing their own unique challenges. It is imperative this high level of communication extend to key industry stakeholders, including leadership of the International Longshoremen’s Association, port users, service providers, and even competitors; the importance of sharing concerns, challenges, resources, and best practices cannot be overstated. Improving how we shared information and finding support from a diverse group of stakeholders are two highlights in an otherwise dark period.
Looking ahead to 2021, the challenges and impacts from COVID-19 are unlikely to disappear soon. Implementing and enforcing the necessary safety precautions in order to protect employees and port users will continue to be a top priority. Truly understanding the supply chains of our customers and being willing to find unique and creative solutions for their challenges will remain a key driver in 2021 and beyond. Traditional supply chains are being impacted with disruptions due to cargo surges, service changes, equipment shortages, and resource constraints. At NC Ports, the investments completed over the last several years have allowed us to maintain the highest level of support for our customers, while offering a viable alternative for those looking for options. And most importantly, communication will remain key during these uncertain times. We must continue to communicate with our employees, our stakeholders, and our customers so their challenges and needs are understood.