Posts Categorized: Alaska News
February 28, 2025
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|  | | | Welcome to the Saltchuk family of companies e-newsletter, keeping you up to date on the significant events and achievements that have shaped our company in recent months. |
| | Saltchuk makes 10-year commitment to create and expand transportation and logistics industry education opportunities in Puerto Rico |
|  | (L-R) Dr. Héctor J. Carlo, UPRM Professor and Engineer; Dr. Agustín Rullán Toro, Chancellor of UPRM; Maria Del Mar Rodriguez, Tropical Shipping AVP; Eduardo Pagan, VP TOTE Maritime; Alejandro Caicedo, Tropical Shipping Puerto Rico Island Manager |
| From technical skills to graduate studies: Saltchuk is committed to advancing industry education in Puerto RicoSaltchuk is investing in Puerto Rico’s transportation and logistics (T&L) education through two complementary university partnerships addressing critical workforce development needs. The University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPRM) will launch this Fall the Caribbean’s first Center of Excellence for Transportation and Logistics (CETL), focusing on advanced education and research. The center will develop graduate programs and specialized minors, conduct applied research in areas like disaster resilience and cold chain logistics, and foster industry partnerships. With an initial funding of $1 million, Saltchuk has conditionally pledged to contribute $10 million over a 10-year period to support the growth of the CETL. At the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico (PUPR), Saltchuk is creating a Talent Development Program targeting technical and operational skills through enhanced associate degree programs, internships, certifications, and apprenticeships. With an initial funding of $200,000, Saltchuk has conditionally pledged to contribute $2 million over a 10-year period to support PUPR. Both programs will be guided by expert industry advisory boards led by local leaders of TOTE and Tropical Shipping to align educational pathways with sector needs and ensure program effectiveness. The funding is conditional on meeting annual performance milestones, demonstrating Saltchuk’s commitment to developing Puerto Rico’s T&L workforce. |
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| | | Saltchuk honored with dual safety awards from Signal Mutual |
| | Saltchuk’s unwavering commitment to safety excellence earned double recognition at Signal Mutual’s January General Meeting in Austin, Texas. The company secured both the Industry Safety Leadership Award and saw one of its own, Tropical Shipping’s Hector Rodriguez, named Operations Professional of the Year. Behind Rodriguez’s award lies an inspiring story of dedication shaped by military service and tested through natural disasters. As Operations Manager at Tropical Shipping’s San Juan facility, his innovative approach to safety has transformed workplace practices. Rodriguez’s impact extends far beyond his immediate role. As Chairman of the Security Committee at the Puerto Rico Shipping Association, he’s brought together federal agencies to enhance port security. His leadership was particularly crucial during Hurricane Maria in 2017, when his team maintained operations despite devastating conditions. These awards highlight Saltchuk’s success in building a culture where safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a fundamental value. As Rodriguez puts it: “There is no greater reward than seeing everyone go home safe.” |
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| | | Aqua Gulf joins the Saltchuk family of companies |
| Last December, TOTE Group welcomed Aqua Gulf and Saltchuk Logistics companies, Carlile, Naniq Global Logistics, and Shoreside into a newly formed vertical, TOTE Logistics. Together, these companies provide a breadth of services from Hawaii and Alaska, and across the country to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. “I know that we are in great hands by joining the Saltchuk family of companies as part of TOTE Group. This is the best place for Aqua Gulf as we begin the next chapter,” said Aqua Gulf Founder Bobby Browne. |
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| | | A new view from the corporate home office |
| | Under sunny January skies, Foss’s PNW fleet moved to Pier 46 from Pier 90 in the Port of Seattle. The move brings the Seattle-based fleet closer to the Saltchuk Marine offices, allowing all Saltchuk companies at 450 Alaskan a front-row seat of the fleet at work. Photo credit: Steve Lorentz, NorthStar Energy |
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| | Redefining government shipbuilding with NSMV success |
| TOTE Services has revolutionized government shipbuilding through its National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) program, demonstrated by the September 2024 delivery of the Patriot State, the second of five vessels. As Vessel Construction Manager, TOTE Services has achieved unprecedented efficiency, limiting cost growth to 1% while delivering vessels in 41 months—dramatically better than traditional government programs. Each $320 million vessel costs less than half of conventional procurement methods. The 524-foot vessels serve as both maritime training platforms and humanitarian response assets. Construction continues at Philly Shipyard, with three more deliveries scheduled through 2026. |
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|  | During its inaugural Sea Term, TOTE was proud to welcome Massachusetts Maritime Academy and the NSMV Patriot State to their San Juan terminal in January. |
|  | Through partnerships with youth organizations, more than 200 students from across Puerto Rico visited the state-of-the-art training vessel to learn about education opportunities in the maritime industry. |
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| | Miami warehouse team drives cultural transformation through leadership and listening |
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| When a troubling employee engagement survey hit leadership’s desk at Tropical Shipping’s Miami warehouse in 2022, it sparked a remarkable transformation that would revolutionize not just operations, but the entire workplace culture. Today, that same facility stands as a compelling example of what happens when leaders truly listen to their teams. The challenge was daunting: high overtime costs, over 50 temporary workers, mounting safety concerns, and a workforce resistant to change. Under the guidance of Miami Warehouse Director Brandon Johnson and AVP Dave Carter, the facility embarked on a comprehensive overhaul that went far beyond surface-level fixes. The results? Loading efficiency doubled from 355 to 725 cubes per hour. Temporary staffing dropped from 50+ workers to just one. Error rates were slashed in half. But the most telling change wasn’t in the numbers—it was in the culture. A facility that once struggled to staff night shifts now receives regular employee referrals, with team members proudly bringing friends and family to apply. |
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August 1, 2024
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| |  | Summer | 2024 News & Events |
| | Welcome to the Saltchuk family of companies e-newsletter, keeping you up to date on the significant events and achievements that have shaped our company in recent months. |
| | Saltchuk welcomes Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) to our family of companies |
|  | | Saltchuk is proud to welcome more than one thousand members of the Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) team to our family of companies. The acquisition, initiated on May 20, moved smoothly through legal review, quickly meeting all requirements to take the company private. OSG stock was delisted from the NYSE on July 10, marking the close of the transaction. |
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| | Saltchuk Marine to build four new Tier IV CARB-Compliant Tugs |
|  | In July, Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) announced a contract to build four new Robert Allan Ltd. RApport 2600 escort tugs for Saltchuk Marine. The tugs will be built at ESG’s Allanton and Port St. Joe shipyards, with delivery expected in 2026. “As the West Coast’s premier tug operator for more than a century, it’s critical that we continue to innovate and provide ship assist services in a manner that prioritizes safety and minimizes environmental impact,” said Jason Childs, Saltchuk Marine’s president and CEO. “The combination of Robert Allan team’s naval architecture and engineering experience and ESG’s proven history of building best-in-class vessels will ensure that we continue to provide our customers with the most reliable service on the West Coast, Hawaii and Alaska.” |
| | | A day in the life: Foss Port Captain |
|  | What does a typical day for a Foss Maritime Port Captain look like? Find out, as we spend the day with PNW Port Captain Drew Kerlee. While no two Port Captain roles are exactly alike; every person who has held the job can likely agree on a few key traits that make someone successful. They must enjoy variety, be skilled at managing multiple projects and priorities, possess excellent communication skills, and above all, have a strong commitment to safety and the crews that depend on their shoreside support. |
| | | AS SEEN IN Alaska Business Magazine |
|  | Saltchuk Alaska companies were honored to be featured in the June 2024 edition of Alaska Business Magazine— In September of 1975, the containership SS Great Land, owned and operated by up-and-coming domestic shipping company Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), left Seattle on her maiden voyage to Anchorage. Seven years later, a group of investors came together to form a new partnership to acquire TOTE and its ocean-liner service. They named their partnership Saltchuk, Chinook jargon for “saltwater.” Saltchuk’s purchase of TOTE in 1982 was followed by the acquisition of a portfolio of Alaska-based operating companies, all integral to the state’s critical infrastructure and supply chain. Read the full article here. |
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| | |  | Summer events across our family of companies provide an excellent opportunity to come together, celebrate our hardworking teams, and enjoy delicious food. In July, a group from Saltchuk Corp Home traveled to Puerto Rico to join teams from TOTE, Tropical Shipping, Puerto Rico Terminals, and StratAir Puerto Rico for the inaugural Saltchuk family of companies BBQ at the Port of San Juan. During the trip, representatives from the Saltchuk Companies Puerto Rico & Caribbean Regional Giving Committee visited the Boys and Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico to witness their incredible work firsthand. Since its formation in 2017, the Giving Committee has supported the Youth of the Year event, a total of $500,000, to empowering youth and nurturing brighter futures. |
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October 13, 2023
Krista Williams is the new CEO of Carlile – Alaska’s leading trucking and logistics company founded in 1980. In recent years, Williams led Carlile’s continuous improvement and strategic growth initiatives as the Chief Operating Officer for Saltchuk Logistics – Carlile’s parent company. Now, Williams plans to further position Carlile to meet expected surges in demand for transportation and logistics support in Alaska and beyond.
“In the coming years, we see tremendous growth opportunities in natural resource development, retail, government, and other sectors of Alaska’s economy,” said Williams, who worked alongside Carlile’s executive team during the past two years to prepare the company for future opportunities. “I admire and appreciate the work ethic, commitment to customers, and culture of the Carlile team. I look forward to building on the company’s success in future years. This is an exciting and promising time for transportation companies in Alaska.”
While Carlile gears up for growth in the marketplace, Williams says the company will continue its legacy of delivering safe, innovative supply chain solutions and service excellence to our customers.
Williams joined Saltchuk in 2018 after working in continuous improvement and developing strategic programs at Toyota, Kaiser Permanente, and Whirlpool. Williams earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and a master’s degree from Seattle University.
Williams joins Terry Howard, who has served as Carlile’s president since 2015 and will remain with the company through 2023.
“Terry Howard’s steadfast leadership has helped guide the company through many challenges in recent years. His commitment to our employees and to the safety and success of our operations leaves a legacy of respect, teamwork, and commitment to the Carlile brand,” said Williams.
Carlile was established in 1980 and operates terminals in AK, WA, TX and Canada. With more than 390 employees, Carlile specializes in trucking and logistics solutions connecting the world to Alaska. For more information, visit www.Carlile.biz.
April 19, 2023
Jacksonville, FL – TOTE Group, an industry leader in U.S. transportation and logistics, is enrolling its TOTE Maritime Alaska and its TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico fleets in Green Marine, the leading voluntary environmental certification program for North America’s maritime industry.
With a special fleet of roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) cargo ships, TOTE Maritime Alaska serves the maritime route between Tacoma, WA, and Anchorage, AK. Its highly efficient and dependable custom-built cargo ships for this route are part of TOTE’s commitment to Alaska, its communities and environment since 1975.
TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico routes cargo from across the continental United States through Jacksonville, FL to Puerto Rico and elsewhere in the Caribbean, offering critical services to the islands where reliable delivery of goods and supplies are vital. TOTE introduced the world’s first two LNG-powered containerships in 2015, specifically for this Puerto Rico trade.
“TOTE’s use of alternative fuels such as LNG dramatically reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on a tank-to-wake basis, offering a pathway to decarbonization in the shipping industry,” said TOTE Group President & CEO Tim Nolan. “By utilizing the cleanest, most readily available fuel for shipping today and into the future, TOTE is creating positive outcomes for those we serve and the coastal communities in which we operate.”
Green Marine’s President David Bolduc salutes TOTE’s environmental vision: “It is with great pride that we welcome such a sustainability pioneer and leader within our certification program,” he said. “I look forward to us learning from each other’s experience.”
Bolduc also noted that the Green Marine program is a good fit for a multi-faceted company such as the TOTE Group. “We are very pleased with TOTE’s intention to enroll its terminal operations into the certification process in due course,” he said. “Our program is unique in its certification of both ship activities and landside operations.”
To achieve Green Marine certification, TOTE will assess the environmental performance of its operating fleets through key performance indicators that address such issues as greenhouse gases, ballast water discharge, air emissions, oily water, waste management, underwater noise, and ship recycling. The certification process is rigorous and transparent, with results independently verified every two years, and each participant’s individual performance made public annually.
Green Marine Overview
Founded in 2007, Green Marine’s North American environmental certification program is celebrating its 15th year as a voluntary effort by the shipping industry to go beyond regulations. There are currently more than 175 ship owners, port authorities, terminal operators, and shipyard managers throughout Canada and the United States participating in the program. A pivotal element of Green Marine’s success from the outset has been the active support from environmental stakeholders, the scientific community, and governments. Many of the more than 90 Green Marine supporters take part in reviewing and shaping the environmental program. In 2020, Green Marine collaborated with Surfrider Foundation Europe to export the environmental certification program to France and give birth to Green Marine Europe. More details are available at www.green-marine.org.
About TOTE Group
TOTE Group is an industry leader in transportation and logistics, overseeing the deliveries of some of the most trusted U.S. companies with the highly reliable services that it provides to the customers and communities that it serves. Its maritime business line has a team of logistics professionals dedicated to providing shipping solutions for service throughout the Lower 48 to Alaska and Puerto Rico. Its terminals business line provides world-class stevedoring and cargo services. Other TOTE Group services include vessel construction, ship management and top-to-bottom technical consulting for ships that range from cargo to military vessels. As the owner and operator of independently managed operating companies, the TOTE Group upholds four pillars in all its enterprises: safety, customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and colleague experience.
July 29, 2022
ANCHORAGE – Alaska has some of the most hazardous driving conditions in the country. In 2020, there were 53 fatal motor vehicle crashes and 64 deaths in the state, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Traffic fatalities at a national level reached a 16-year high in 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is one of many reasons Carlile Transportation, an Alaska shipping company, is active in roadway safety and prevention education.
The company kept safety awareness moving at the annual Wheel-O-Rama fair on June 15. The event, hosted by Alaska Regional Hospital, raised awareness about trauma, safety, and injury prevention related to wheeled vehicles. Carlile was joined by several community partners, including police officers, firefighters, People Mover , and the American Red Cross.
“Safety is at the core of our business operations. We appreciate the opportunity to spotlight safety practices in the communities that we serve,” said Jeremy Miller, who is Vice President of Operations at Carlile.
Carlile is Alaska’s leading trucking and logistics company, with terminals in Alaska, Tacoma, Houston, and Alberta. The company provides trucking, ocean, air, and rail solutions to connect shippers and supply chains to Alaska.
