Tampa logistics leader urges communities to prepare for the next generation of port professionals

TAMPA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / September 4, 2025 / Andre Benz, a veteran maritime and logistics professional with more than a decade of experience at the Port of Tampa, is calling attention to the urgent need for skilled workers in the U.S. maritime industry.

"Ports don't run on their own - they run on people," says Benz. "We can have the best equipment in the world, but without trained, dependable workers, the cargo doesn't move."

Why Skilled Maritime Labour Matters Now

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for logisticians is projected to grow 18% by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Meanwhile, the American Association of Port Authorities reports that nearly 50% of the current maritime workforce is over the age of 50, meaning a wave of retirements is on the horizon.

Benz warns that without action, the gap could disrupt trade flows and slow down economic activity. "If we don't train people now, we'll feel the pain later," he says. "Every ship that's delayed, every container that sits too long - it all adds up to higher costs for businesses and consumers."

From Dockworker to Industry Leader

Benz began his career on the docks of the Port of Tampa, gaining first-hand experience in cargo handling, safety standards, and vessel operations. That early work shaped his approach to leadership.

"Those first years taught me to respect the pace and complexity of port life," he recalls. "You learn quickly that safety and communication are everything."

He now manages logistics coordination, overseeing shipment planning, regulatory compliance, and communication between shipping lines, trucking companies, customs, and warehouse teams.

The Power of Workforce Development

Benz is actively involved in local workforce training programmes that help Tampa residents enter maritime careers.

"I've seen people come in with no experience and, within months, they're working steady jobs that support their families," Benz says. "It's life-changing for them, and it's vital for the industry."

These programmes cover cargo handling, port safety, and job readiness, often leading to immediate employment. Benz says the model can be scaled across other port cities to strengthen the national supply chain.

What Communities Can Do

Benz believes the solution starts at the local level. He offers several steps communities and individuals can take:

1. Raise awareness about maritime careers in schools and job fairs.

2. Support local training initiatives through funding, volunteering, or mentorship.

3. Encourage cross-training so workers can move between roles as needed.

4. Highlight success stories to attract more candidates into the field.

"This isn't just a Tampa issue - it's a national issue," Benz says. "Every community with a port can help build the next generation of skilled workers."

Economic and Community Impact

Maritime trade supports over 31 million U.S. jobs and accounts for $5.4 trillion in economic activity, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. Ports like Tampa connect regional industries to global markets, making them critical to both local economies and national competitiveness.

"When we invest in people, we're investing in trade, in jobs, and in the stability of the supply chain," Benz says. "It's not just about moving goods - it's about moving communities forward."

About Andre Benz

Andre Benz is a Tampa-based maritime and logistics professional with more than 10 years of experience in port operations, freight coordination, and supply chain management. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Logistics from the University of South Florida and is active in workforce development initiatives.

Call to Action:
Learn about maritime career opportunities in your community. Support local training programmes. Share the value of these careers with young people. The future of trade depends on the people who keep it moving.

To read the full Interview, click here.

Email: andrebenz@emaildn.com

SOURCE: Andre Benz