Where Does LA’s Port Automation Leave Workers?

Automation and machinery has slowly been moving into traditionally labor-intensive industries and taking over tasks the humans used to do. The Port of Los Angeles is no exception. Cloud based processing solutions, automatic port gates, ship-to-shore cranes, and automated inventory have all helped to make ports run more efficiently. But this efficiency begs the question, what about the port workers?

It is true that automation has begun to create redundancies that have lead to loss of employment for port workers, but the good news is that AMP Terminals (an international container terminal operation company) has agreed to provide 900 LA port workers with fully paid job training’s for reskilling and upskilling. In exchange, AMP is bringing zero-emission and near zero emission automation equipment to pier 40. 

Any time an industry advances in a dramatic way, there is discomfort. It will be challenging for the shipping industry to adjust to new ways of doing things, and it will be even more challenging for port workers to pivot mid-career and into a new role or a new field. The reality is that automation is coming, so taking advantage of re-training and up-training programs is really the best move. The more skills you have, the more indispensable you are and the less likely you are to end up jobless and struggling. 

Transitioning labor-heavy industries like import/export to automation is not an easy pill for the laborers to swallow. Fortunately, labor unions and large shipping companies understand that, and are doing their best to ease this transition.

If you or a loved one works at the Port of Los Angeles, we encourage you to begin exploring your options now. It can never hurt to diversify your skills. Prepare now and thank us later. If you have questions about your rights as a port worker, then call us today to discuss your situation. We are happy to help.