PORT OF LOS ANGELES LAUNCHES WORKFORCE EDUCATION PROGRAM FOCUSED ON ZERO-EMISSION TECHNOLOGY

Oct. 28, 2026 -The Port of Los Angeles this week brought together educators, workforce training providers and maritime industry representatives for the first in-person gathering of the Port of Los Angeles Teaching Energy Advancement in Cargo Handling (POLA TEACH), a new initiative designed to help prepare workers for careers involving zero-emission cargo-handling equipment and trucks.

The POLA TEACH initiative connects school districts, community colleges and workforce development organizations with industry experts to help develop education and training programs focused on the operation, maintenance and repair of zero-emission equipment. "As we continue our transition to zero-emission operations, we need to make sure our workforce is prepared for the jobs and opportunities that come with these new technologies," said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. "By bringing educators and industry together, we're helping build the training programs that will prepare the next generation of skilled workers while creating new career pathways for our communities."

The gathering at Banning's Landing Community Center included representatives from the Los Angeles Unified School District, California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, Long Beach City College, Los Angeles Harbor College, Los Angeles Trade-Technical College and El Camino College, among other educational institutions. Marine terminal operators, labor representatives, non-profit organizations and workforce development agencies also participated.

Participants received an overview of Port operations and the goods movement industry, took a harbor boat tour and visited Yusen Terminals to gain firsthand exposure to cargo-handling operations and equipment. California Assemblymember Mike Fong also participated in the program.

"Our goal is to give educators and training providers direct access to the people and equipment that are driving this transition," said Avin Sharma, Senior Director of Workforce and Government Affairs at the Port of Los Angeles. "As zero-emission technology becomes more widely used, we want our communities to have the skills and training needed to compete for these jobs. This program is about connecting education with real-world industry needs."

Following an initial virtual meeting in October 2025, this week's gathering marked the first opportunity for participants to meet in person and experience Port operations firsthand. The initiative will continue with quarterly meetings focused on specific types of zero-emission equipment. Participants will hear directly from equipment manufacturers, terminal operators, owners and repair technicians to better understand the skills and technical knowledge required to operate and maintain the equipment.

The Port's broader transition to zero-emission operations is guided by the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, which establishes ambitious goals for reducing emissions from cargo handling equipment and trucks.

Through POLA TEACH, the Port aims to strengthen partnerships between education and industry, expand workforce training opportunities and help prepare Southern California communities for the changing needs of the goods movement sector.