S3E5: How Economics, Policy, and Labor Affect Maritime Operations with South Carolina Ports CEO Barbara Melvin

For the February 2025 episode, host Ted Stank and guest host Josh King speak with Barbara Melvin, CEO and president of the South Carolina Ports about everything from U.S. trade and tariffs to the impact of labor and economic development on port operations. A member of the GSCI Advisory Board Melvin runs one of the fastest-growing ports in the country, and the fourth-busiest gateway on the East Coast in Charleston, South Carolina. Previously serving as the organization’s COO, she was named to her position in July 2022, becoming the first woman to lead a top 10 U.S. operating container port. In 2023, she was recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Supply Chain by student leaders at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.  Listen in as our hosts also delve into the state of the U.S. economy, talent development in the industry, applied research opportunities with UT, and the challenges leaders like Melvin are tasked with overcoming to benefit American businesses and consumers. The interview with Barbara Melvin starts at 8:23.The episode was recorded on February 13, 2025, during the Winter GSCI Advisory Board meeting at the Haslam College of Business. Related links:Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs shake up supply chains U.S. consumer inflation increases at fastest pace in nearly 1.5 years. Register for SCM Academies in Finance, and Planning Register for the Supply Chain Forum, April 8–10 in Knoxville Join the Advanced Supply Chain Collaborative to explore advanced concepts in SCM with top experts in the discipline. Read our latest white paper, “Unlocking the Potential of the Gen XYZ Labor Force” Become a Supply Chain Forum member Subscribe to GSCI’s monthly newsletter Read the latest news and insights from GSCI Text the Tennessee on Supply Chain Management team!