A Conversation with SC Ports President Barbara Melvin: Driving Economic Activity in Charleston’s Maritime Industry

A community gathering took place at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on June 12, where locals had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with Barbara Melvin, President and CEO of SC Ports, about Charleston’s maritime industry. Led by Ted Kinghorn as part of the LENS IOP Leadership Series, the event aimed to foster connections and initiate meaningful discussions among attendees.

During the discussion, it was highlighted that Melvin is the first woman to lead a top 10 U.S. container port and was named the 2023 Leading Woman in SC. With 25 years of experience at S.C. Ports, Melvin provided insight into the intricacies involved in moving containers on and off ships. She emphasized how the port’s operations are critical in covering fixed costs and driving economic activity through increased volume.

Melvin also touched upon the challenges faced by truck companies due to their close relationship with the port, highlighting how delays impact truck drivers. She stressed the importance of keeping goods moving efficiently to support the country’s economy and ensure the well-being of those involved in the supply chain.

As head of a team of 1,000 workers, Melvin emphasized responsible and sustainable practices within port operations. Furthermore, she underscored SC Ports’ broader responsibility towards the community and nation as a whole.

She pointed out how consumption is significant in driving economic growth in America, particularly during COVID-19 when there was a rise in goods consumption. Melvin discussed how SC Ports needs to continue expanding its infrastructure to meet growing demands, mentioning upcoming projects such as opening Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston and recent railroad expansion projects.

Overall, Kinghorn expressed his excitement for this exchange and highlighted that this program aims to foster connections among attendees while initiating meaningful conversations about important topics like maritime industry in Charleston.