Supply chain security along the Columbia River : an analysis of maritime supply chain security with respect to communication between security experts

Abstract

The amount of cargo that enters the US border is at an all time high. Cargo containers and vessel shipments enter the US from all over the world. Tracking these shipments from their origin to destination requires professional expertise. Security organizations, such as the Regional Maritime Security Coalition of the Columbia River, realize the potential of these professionals, who track and coordinate cargo containers as they move through a supply chain, to enhance security of maritime cargo. In order to utilize these supply chain logistic professionals in a security coalition, proper training and certification would be required to comply with the US Federal Code on Liability Protection. This study examines the requirements that are necessary to certify supply chain logistic professionals as certified volunteers in an information sharing, security communication network to prevent terrorist activity, smuggling, theft, and to assist in general crisis mitigation. The thesis studies how the RMSC is currently developing its security communication system around supply chain logistic professionals, and the requirements and training that would be necessary to certify them under the US Federal Code.