ILA port workers strike at U.S. east coast and gulf ports

 

WTDC Newsletter – October 1, 2024

In this week’s WTDC newsletter we cover:

sean gazitua

President’s Corner: Strike Update

For the first time since 1977, port workers from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) went on strike today, October 1, 2024. 45,000 workers in ports across the east coast and gulf ports are now on strike, leading a full work stoppage.
WTDC has been moving incoming and outgoing shipments to meet the cutoffs announced by port operators in South Florida. We hope an agreement is reached soon to minimize the impacts to our customers.

Sean Gazitua, President & CEO

Dockworkers From Maine to Texas Go On Strike

Dockworkers from 36 U.S. ports spanning Maine to Texas initiated a strike early this morning over automation and wages. The International Longshoreman’s Association (ILA) are demanding a 77% pay raise and a ban on automation. The union has rejected the U.S. Maritime Alliance’s (USMX) offer of a 50% pay raise over the course of six years, citing inadequate automation protections and insufficient wage increases.

This strike is expected to disrupt the national supply chain. With holiday season around the corner, a long-term work stoppage could result in shortages of perishables and goods like toys and cars. J.P. Morgan indicates that the strike could cost the economy $3.8 billion to $4.5 billion daily.

AP News: Dockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas go on strike, a standoff risking new shortages

Miami and Fort Lauderdale Longshoreman Protest
Thousands of dockworkers have gone on strike at ports including PortMiami and Port Everglades, with over 800 longshoreman are expected to protest. This strike is likely to impact Florida’s imports and cause price hikes in fruits, vegetables, apparel, and machinery. Dockworkers are prepared to remain on strike until their demands are met.

Dockworkers strike at Miami, Fort Lauderdale ports, demand higher wages – CBS Miami (cbsnews.com)

 

MDPD and WTDC donate pet supplies to Miami-Dade Animal Services

On September 16th, WTDC collected pet supplies to assist in Miami-Dade Police Department’s Pet Supplies Drive for the Miami-Dade Animal Services Pet Adoption and Animal Protection Center. We extend our gratitude to WTDC employees, families, vendors like ASCI of Miami, and customers for making these generous donations to a great cause.

Pictured is MDPD Officer Hayes alongside WTDC President Sean Gazitua, Logistics Manager Ginger Diez, and Operations Assistant Brianna Page, who facilitated WTDC’s involvement in the collection. For more information about pet adoption, lost & found pets, and pet vaccinations, please visit their site.

 

           

WTDC visits FIU International Business Honor Society (IBHS)

On September 16th, WTDC President & CEO Sean Gazitua had the pleasure of speaking to the International Business Honor Society (IBHS) at FIU. Joined by WTDC Logistics Manager Ginger Diez, Sales and Marketing Manager Sean Powers, and Office Manager Daniel Fajardo, the team discussed WTDC’s four pillars and current opportunities and challenges within the logistics field.

It was a pleasure to be joined at the presentation by our former WTDC Sustainability Intern Michelle Heinz and current WTDC Operations Assistant Brianna Page, who are on the IBHS executive board.

We are proud to support IBHS through our annual scholarship essay competition which offers a student the chance to participate in the Bandhwari Women’s Project in India. We are grateful to engage with these bright and motivated students!

 

FIU Trail of the Torch
On September 19, 2024, Florida International University celebrated its annual Trail of the Torch during the Uncaging ceremony. WTDC President and CEO Sean Gazitua proudly served as the alumni torchbearer, honoring those who embody the Panther spirit.
This longstanding tradition recognizes individuals who are well-rounded, philanthropic, hardworking, and driven. Countless FIU alumni, students, faculty, and staff gathered to witness this inspiring celebration of excellence.