Trident Tech, Charleston port officials team up to train crane operators, engineers and mechanics

The State Ports Authority is hoping to team up with Trident Technical College to train the next generation of crane operators, engineers, mechanics and other specialized staff working at the maritime agency’s terminals.

Jim Newsome, the SPA’s president and CEO, met this week with college President Mary Thornley and others to talk about establishing training programs at the school’s main campus in North Charleston. The plans are in the early stages, but Newsome said some type of training program is crucial because of the maritime agency’s aging workforce.

“We probably have the potential for 100 retirements over the next five years, and those are not easy people to replace,” Newsome said.