News

The South Jersey Port Corporation proudly welcomes Richard F. Altomare to its team as the newly appointed General Manager for Security, Public Safety, and Emergency Management and Facility Security Officer. As the former head of the TSA’s Federal Air Marshal Service in Philadelphia, Altomare brings a wealth of law enforcement expertise and decades of experience to his new role.

“We’re delighted to have Rich’s extensive and impressive decades of law enforcement expertise leading our security team and emergency management efforts,” said Andrew Saporito, SJPC’s Executive Director and CEO. “He not only enforced the regulations, tactics, strategies and policies to protect America’s air flights and borders, he wrote them at the TSA and taught them as an adjunct professor.”

Altomare’s career spans from a military policeman in the Army, to a police officer in Brigantine, New Jersey, and then rising through the ranks at the Transportation Security Agency. In 2023, he was awarded the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security’s Exceptional Service Gold Medal in recognition of his exceptional leadership.

He led law enforcement and security operations over numerous maximum transportation security/mass-attendance events, including Super Bowl LI, 2016 NCAA Final Four Championship Game, and “Operations Allies Welcome.”

While simultaneously performing his duties with the Transportation Security Administration, from 2013 to 2023, he served as Adjunct Professor/Course Developer at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida, delivering graduate-level lectures on Homeland Security and Criminal Justice studies.

Altomare holds a Master of Science in Administrative from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Stockton University.

We are thrilled to congratulate our very own South Jersey Ports board member, Sheila Roberts who recently received the prestigious Camden Hero Award at the Camden Community Partnership’s Annual Meeting. 

The Camden Hero Award is a testament to Sheila’s lifelong dedication to her beloved city and its residents. It recognizes her unwavering commitment to making Camden a better place for everyone, and her impact has left an indelible mark on the community.

Sheila Roberts is not just a resident of Camden; she is a true community leader. Her journey has been defined by selfless service and advocacy, as she has tirelessly championed the causes she holds dear.

For over two decades, Sheila has served as the President of the Cooper Lanning Civic Association, tirelessly advocating for the Cooper Plaza neighborhood and partnering with the adjacent Lanning Square neighborhood. Her dedication extends far beyond her role in the association; she contributes to area food banks, supports homeless shelters, and collaborates with organizations to provide essential items to those in need throughout the year.

Sheila’s commitment to social determinants of health is evident in her partnership with the Food Bank of South Jersey, where she facilitates regular food distributions. She has also played a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining a community garden in Cooper Plaza, providing a source of fresh produce for neighbors.

Sheila’s involvement in youth sports underscores her commitment to providing recreational opportunities for Camden’s youth. Her dedication to the Camden Promise Neighborhood Initiative further highlights her passion for creating opportunities and resources for children and families.

Her dedication to improving the quality of life for Camden residents has led her to volunteer and serve on numerous boards and committees. Her background as a retired teacher from the Camden City Public Schools and her education at Rutgers University-Camden have equipped her with the knowledge and passion needed to effect positive change.

Sheila Roberts is not just a board member; she is a Camden hero. Her unwavering commitment to the city and its residents has made a profound and lasting impact, exemplifying the spirit of resiliency, selflessness, and betterment that the Camden Hero Award celebrates.

“We are immensely proud to have Sheila as a part of the South Jersey Ports family, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Sheila’s dedication is an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact alongside her in the city,”  said Andy Saporito, South Jersey Ports Executive Director & CEO.

The team at South Jersey Ports recognizes that its presence in the communities of Camden, Paulsboro, and Salem is not just about business and the supply chain; it’s about people. This understanding has fueled our commitment to community outreach efforts, which have become an integral part of our mission.

One of the standout initiatives is our participation in local job fairs. We recognize the importance of providing employment opportunities to residents in the area. It is our mission after all to foster regional economic development and that means creating local jobs. We partner with local organizations and schools to ensure we are actively recruiting from the local talent pool.

South Jersey Ports’ outreach efforts extend far beyond just job fairs. We understand that the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. That’s why we regularly organize student tours and career days at port facilities. These events provide students with an up-close look at the maritime industry and the career possibilities it holds. They inspire young minds to consider careers in logistics, engineering, and various other fields, paving the way for a brighter future for our communities.

Participation in neighborhood clean-ups is another crucial aspect of the ports’ community involvement. We recognize that a clean environment is essential for the well-being of our neighbors. By actively participating in clean-up initiatives, we hope to not only contribute to a healthier living environment but also foster a sense of togetherness with our neighbors. Our teams roll up their sleeves, put on gloves, and work side by side with residents and other stakeholders demonstrating our shared commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment.

Moreover, the ports’ commitment to the community goes beyond the physical boundaries of our facilities. We actively engage with local organizations and support various community projects and events throughout the year.

The philosophy behind all these efforts is clear: our organization views itself as an integral part of the South Jersey community. We don’t just want to coexist with our neighbors; we want to thrive together. We understand that our success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities we call home.

In the end, our commitment to community outreach efforts isn’t just about being a good neighbor; it’s about being a true partner in the growth of our host cities. By fostering relationships, providing opportunities, and making a positive impact, we are not only helping build a stronger community but also setting a standard for responsible corporate citizenship. Our mission isn’t just about shipping goods; it’s about building bridges of goodwill and collaboration that benefit everyone involved.

A Remarkable Half-Century of Collaboration

Forging lasting partnerships can be a challenging feat for any organization, often discussed but not always realized. The collaboration between Macsteel International and South Jersey Ports (SJP) is a shining example of such partnerships and a remarkable testament to the enduring power of strong alliances.

For over 116 years, Macsteel International has been a leading manufacturer, merchandiser, and distributor of steel and value-added products. With a global presence encompassing cities around the globe such as Amsterdam, Dubai, New York, Houston, Camden, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Melbourne, Macsteel has firmly established itself as a key player in the steel industry, boasting $244 million in revenues and a dedicated team of 500 employees.

A Handshake Deal That Lasted 50 Years

The partnership between Macsteel and SJP began in the mid-1970s when William (Bill) Matteo, an executive at the time, forged a connection with the port’s then-executive director, Joseph Balzano. Remarkably, the deal was sealed with a handshake, and it has stood strong for half a century.

According to Michael J. Purpura, International Domestic Shipping and Logistic Manager for Macsteel International, who now oversees the SJPC-Macsteel partnership, “We’ve forged a very close relationship through a succession of natural management iterations. Currently, we are working closely with Brendan Dugan, Assistant Executive Director/Chief Commercial Officer who shares the same commitment, focus, and attitude that we do—ensuring excellence in customer service.”

The South Jersey Ports’ Advantages

For Macsteel, the port’s facilities are ideal. Purpura notes, “South Jersey Ports allow easy access to our customers in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and the Midwest. It’s centrally located on the U.S. East Coast and offers excellent facilities, warehousing, laydown areas for our cargo, and superb highway and rail connections from the port to our customers.”

Moreover, it’s the seamless, “hand-in-glove” relationship that has flourished over five decades that truly sets South Jersey Ports apart. The no-nonsense, “let’s get to it” approach of the port team members resonates deeply with Macsteel, emphasizing the shared commitment to delivering cargo promptly to customers.

Market and Tonnage

Macsteel’s imports through South Jersey Ports vary between 5,000 to 10,000 tons of diverse steel products, largely driven by customer demand. While the Biden infrastructure plan promises a significant surge in steel demand over the next decade, immediate concerns, such as labor issues and supply chain disruptions, are at the forefront of customer priorities.

Purpura explains, “Right now, customers are cautious, managing inventories, and awaiting resolution of labor issues.  However, Macsteel and South Jersey Ports remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering, as we have for years.”

As Macsteel and South Jersey Ports continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the steel industry, their enduring partnership serves as a beacon of stability, dedication, and collaboration. Here’s to the next 50 years of success and shared achievements.

“Over the past 50 years, we’ve built a relationship based on trust and a shared goal of superior customer service and meeting supply chain demand. It’s a true honor to celebrate this remarkable milestone together as we look forward to the future,” said Andy Saporito, Executive Director & CEO of South Jersey Ports.

Celebration Commemorating the City’s Role in the International Supply Chain Held on October 24, 2023
CAMDEN, NJ – Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a renowned international shipping company, honored the City of Camden, New Jersey, by naming one of its state-of-the-art vessels, the “Norse Camden,” in recognition of Camden’s vital role in the global supply chain. This remarkable tribute underscores the deep and enduring partnership between Clipper Bulk Shipping and the South Jersey Port Corporation, as well as the significance of Camden as the company’s largest U.S. port of call.

For more than three decades, Clipper Bulk Shipping has been a steadfast partner in Camden City, importing steel from Northern Europe, with a focus on tinplate in coils, steel coils, and structural steel. This enduring relationship has not only been beneficial for trade and commerce but has also contributed to Camden’s reputation as a pivotal gateway in the international maritime industry.

Camden Mayor, Vic Carstarphen expressed his enthusiasm for this symbolic gesture, stating, “We are honored to have our city’s name associated with Clipper Bulk Shipping’s Norse Camden vessel. This event highlights the importance of Camden in the global supply chain and reinforces our commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.”
State Senator Nilsa Cruz Perez also emphasized the significance of this occasion, saying, “Clipper Bulk Shipping’s decision to name a ship after Camden showcases Camden’s integral role in international trade. It reflects the commitment of our local, state, and international partners to the prosperity and economic growth of our community and state.”
Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. added, “This event is a testament to the dedication of our stakeholders, the City of Camden, South Jersey Port Corporation, Delaware River Stevedores, and Terminal Shipping, who have tirelessly worked together to strengthen our relationship with Clipper Bulk Shipping. We’re proud to be a part of this partnership.”

Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a privately held company founded by Torben G. Jensen in 1972, continues to thrive under the leadership of Chairman Frank G. Jensen and Partner and Member of the Board Niels G. Jensen. Clipper Bulk Shipping is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with operational offices in Houston, Hong Kong, and Cape Town and operates a fleet of approximately 90 vessels.

Andy Saporito, Executive Director & CEO of South Jersey Ports, highlighted the significance of the Norse Camden, stating, “The Norse vessels are a remarkable addition to the international supply chain and symbolize a more modern and eco-friendly approach to shipping which aligns with our sustainability and port modernization goals. We are proud to host the Norse Camden and are excited to continue our partnership with Clipper Bulk Shipping as we embark on a new chapter in our shared maritime history.”

NJ State Assemblyman Bill Moen expressed his excitement for the celebration of this milestone for Camden saying, “The Norse Camden is not only a testament to the ingenuity of maritime engineering but also a reflection of the global partnerships that drive our state’s economy. It’s inspiring to witness this ship’s journey from its construction in Japan to its vital role in our port in Camden, New Jersey.”

The Norse Camden is the fifth vessel in a series of eco-friendly ships, constructed primarily in Japan. This series, named after main steel ports worldwide, emphasizes the connection between global trade and the dedicated ports that facilitate it.
The official berthing of the Norse Camden at Balzano Terminal in Camden came on October 22, 2023, and was celebrated at Balzano Terminal in Camden on Tuesday, October 24. This event was a significant moment in the maritime history of Camden, celebrating its rich legacy and vibrant future in the global supply chain.

“South Jersey Port Corporation has been a great business partner for us for many, many years,” said Peter Svensson, senior vice president and head of Clipper Americas. He emphasized the incredible milestones achieved through this enduring partnership, “The millions of tons of steel that our ships have moved over three decades through Balzano Marine Terminal in Camden are a testament to the trust and reliability that defines our relationship. This is a great way to celebrate The Norse Camden and the tremendous growth and success we’ve made together.”

About the Norse Camden: The Norse Camden, a remarkable addition to Clipper Bulk Shipping’s fleet was meticulously constructed at the renowned Shikoku Dockyard Company Ltd. in Takamatsu, Japan. With a displacement of 48,617 metric tons and a deadweight of 40,020 metric tons at a draft of 35.52 feet in full load condition, the vessel boasts impressive dimensions. Her overall length extends to 600 feet, while her beam spans 99.7 feet, providing ample capacity for the transportation of cargo. Powered by a robust Mitsui-Man B&W engine producing 6,120 kW of power at 99 revolutions per minute, the Norse Camden cruises at a maximum speed of 14.2 knots. Launched on September 7, 2021, and delivered on January 17, 2022, this state-of-the-art vessel is registered in Singapore.

About the South Jersey Port Corporation: The South Jersey Port Corporation (SJPC) provides world-class facilities and beneficial services that support and accommodate the transportation of goods and commodities, both by water and land. It is the mission of the SJPC to foster regional economic development through revenue generation in a financially and environmentally sustainable manner to support facility, staffing, and infrastructure investment for the benefit of our Port District, including the cities of Camden, Paulsboro, and Salem, New Jersey.