TOPS Goes to Savannah: Register Now! | How You Can Start Planning for ILTA 2026 | Fall EGHSS Recap | Meet Elías Abrego Alemán, VTTI: October Member Feature
Get a head start on your ILTA 2026 Conference & Trade Show planning!
Submit a Session Proposal Share your knowledge and experiences at our June 15–17, 2026 Conference & Trade Show. Proposal submissions are open to terminal members and 2026 exhibitors and should highlight timely issues, best practices, and innovative solutions. We encourage all submissions related to terminal operations, with particular interest in topics covering Environment; Health & Safety; Security; Government Affairs; Leadership; Operations; Engineering; Human Resources; and AI.
Registration Now Open! Join us in Savannah, GA, December 1–2, 2025for ILTA’s Terminal Operating Practices Symposium (TOPS). This one-of-a-kind event is built by terminal operators, for terminal operators—a place to share real-world lessons, explore proven operating practices, and strengthen safety and performance across the industry.
From natural disasters to near misses, you’ll hear first-hand experiences directly from your peers—what worked, what didn’t, and the practical takeaways you can apply at your own facility. Plus, enjoy networking at the Welcome Reception, a full day of operator-led sessions, and included meals.
Fall 2025 EGHSS Committee Meeting Brings Policy, Innovation, and Collaboration to Denver
Terminal professionals from across the country gathered in Denver last week for the Fall 2025 EGHSS Committee Meeting, kicking off with a private tour of the Colorado State Capitol Building. The visit offered stunning views from the dome and reinforced the importance of building strong relationships with state legislators.
A major highlight of the meeting was the participation of Congressman Gabe Evans and Representative Junie Joseph, who both emphasized the need for stories and data to help lawmakers understand and address industry challenges. Representative Joseph underscored ILTA’s role, noting that “ILTA is part of our energy future.”
Attendees received regulatory updates on environmental, safety, and security issues. Lee Scott of Odfjell Terminals US provided step-by-step guidance for meeting the 2025 Marine Transportation Security Act cybersecurity reporting requirements. A separate session addressed drone activity, highlighting the growing need for clearer FAA regulations to manage airspace around critical infrastructure and better protect terminal facilities.
Day One concluded with subcommittee roundtables, fostering cross-collaboration, followed by a taco bar networking reception where attendees continued conversations in a relaxed setting.
We extend our appreciation to our subject matter experts, subcommittee co-chairs, and all who joined us in Denver. Special thanks to our sponsor Voovio, whose technology uses digital replicas and simulators to onboard operators more efficiently, reduce downtime, and increase productivity. We encourage members to connect with Voovio to learn more about their innovative solutions.
We look forward to continuing these conversations in upcoming monthly committee meetings and seeing everyone at the Spring 2026 EGHSS Committee Meeting in Tulsa, OK, March 10–11.
From answering a newspaper ad at age 25 to becoming a seasoned leader in terminal operations, Elias’s career has been defined by adaptability, mentorship, and a deep commitment to safety and innovation. Reflecting on the industry’s rapid transformation—from paper plans to AI-powered systems—he also highlights one of the most encouraging shifts he’s witnessed: the growing presence of women in technical and leadership roles.
Read the full interview to learn more about Elias’s journey, insights, and vision for the future of the terminal industry.
Energy Transfer has demonstrated its commitment to advancing pipeline safety and environmental responsibility through a strategic partnership with Vanguard Pipeline Inspection, LLC, supporting the development and deployment of the Falcon XL Aerial Methane Detection Technology. The collaboration has enabled the company to survey more than 44,000 miles of pipeline, marking a significant milestone in leak detection and emissions monitoring capabilities.
Ergon is the proud recipient of the Silver Stevie Award for Best Youth Employment Strategy. This award highlights Ergon's dedication to providing STEM, trade and vocational opportunities to aspiring young people in Mississippi communities, helping them pursue new pathways for their futures.
UAB-Online has achieved a significant milestone in its global expansion with the successful Go Live of VTTI Seaport Canaveral, marking the second terminal to implement the digital platform in the United States. This launch represents more than an operational implementation—it serves as a strategic milestone that extends the proven efficiency, compliance, and collaboration benefits of the UAB-Online platform to the American maritime market.
Equinor and Shell have appointed Neil McCulloch as CEO and Nicoletta Giadrossi as Chair of their offshore UK Incorporated Joint Venture, Adura. These appointments mark a key step in establishing Adura as the UK North Sea’s largest independent producer, underscoring the company’s focus on operational excellence, strong governance, and a clear vision for the future of UK oil and gas.