Business of Maritime: Laura DiBella on Port Operations, Industry Challenges & Growth | YACHTING USA

Join Rick Thomas on Yachting USA for an in-depth interview with Laura DiBella, former Secretary of Commerce and Port Director of Florida. In this episode, Laura shares her extensive experience and insights into the business dynamics of the maritime industry. Explore critical topics such as port operations, the intersection of aerospace and maritime, the impact of the pandemic on harbor pilots, and the challenges facing North American shipyards.

Laura also discusses the importance of manufacturing in economic development, the future of waterfront property, and the significance of vocational training in shaping the industry’s workforce. Whether you're in the maritime sector or simply interested in its economic impact, this episode offers valuable perspectives on current challenges and future growth.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:57 Laura DiBella's Background and Early Life
01:49 Education and Career Path
02:48 Maritime Industry Insights
04:10 Aerospace and Maritime Intersection
07:41 Port Operations and Challenges
15:15 Harbor Pilots and Pandemic Impact
19:30 The Importance of Ports and Harbor Pilots
20:00 Role as Secretary of Commerce for Florida
20:28 Post Pandemic Business Boom and Challenges
20:53 Economic Development and Housing Issues
23:30 Inflation, Interest Rates, and Manufacturing
25:54 Impact on the Yachting Industry
28:33 The Decline of North American Shipyards
30:43 Waterfront Property and Industry Concerns
34:24 Apprenticeships and Workforce Education
37:19 Current Role and Industry Representation
38:44 Enterprise Florida and Trade Relationships
39:53 Looking Ahead: Post-Election Outlook
40:54 Conclusion and Contact Information

To contact Laura:
@Laura DiBella - LinkedIn

Proudly sponsored by ATPI Travel:
@atpiyacht - Instagram
@atpi - LinkedIn

To contact Rick Thomas:

#YachtingInternationalRadio #MaritimeBusiness #PortOperations #EconomicDevelopment #MaritimeIndustry #YachtingIndustry #HarborPilots