In response to repeated requests by the international maritime community for greater training opportunities, the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans, the World Trade Center of New Orleans, and the University of New Orleans National Ports and Waterways Institute/College of Urban and Public Affairs established the International Program for Port Planning and Management (IPPPM). Focusing intensively on the unique demands and challenges of the maritime industry, this rigorous two-week program consists of a curriculum designed to help maritime industry executives sharpen practical skills and strengthen their conceptual understanding in a total learning atmosphere away from the demands of their administrative responsibilities. Top maritime executives, port authority managers, academics, and researchers serve as lecturers and are chosen not only for expertise in their respective fields, but also for their ability to communicate effectively.

The Port of New Orleans provides a superb environment and an ideal laboratory for IPPPM. Founded by the French in 1718, the city and its port have been the gateway to the heartland of America for 285 years. Linking 20 states to world ports, New Orleans is the leading port in the U.S. in terms of tonnage. More than 6,000 ocean vessels from around the world pass through the port annually. Currently, the Port of New Orleans is undertaking an extensive capital improvement program which should keep it competitive well into the 21st century.

The executive offices of the 33-story World Trade Center (WTC) serve as the principal classroom for IPPPM. Created by Spanish craftsmen to reproduce the style and atmosphere of old castles in Spain, the executive offices provide a regal setting for IPPPM courses.

The program focuses on the general management of port operations in an international environment. IPPPM is a concentrated program which demands a high level of personal commitment and participation. The curriculum covers three broad areas: port systems, port authority management and administration, and port planning and operations.

All courses are taught in English; and the instructors include both public sector maritime officials and private sector maritime executives from the United States and abroad, the staff of the University of New Orleans' National Ports and Waterways Institute, University faculty, Port of New Orleans personnel and members of the local maritime community.

Participants successfully completing IPPPM are awarded an internationally recognized diploma in port planning and management

For further information:

http://www.uno.edu/cupa/ipppm/RegistrationForm.html