(PORTLAND, Ore.) — Merchants Exchange has named Carl Bertapelle as its new marine operations services manager. Bertapelle will be responsible for the overall management of the marine operations services department, staff and programs.
“Carl will be a welcome addition to our executive management team. He brings an extensive knowledge of the Lower Columbia River gleaned from over 15 years working in marine operations on the river. This knowledge and experience, combined with his vision for developing Merchants Exchange services, will be a tremendous asset for the Merchants Exchange and our marine operations services,” said Executive Director Elizabeth Wainwright.
Merchants Exchange has provided maritime intelligence services, and accurate, timely and detailed vessel information to its members for over 142 years through its marine operations services department (MarOps).
MarOps operates 24/7/365 with a staff of four MarOps specialists, one MarOps supervisor and one MarOps manager. Bertapelle will oversee this legacy of service to our members and maritime industry stakeholders.
Bertapelle began his maritime career during the Exxon Valdez oil spill, sailing aboard a U.S. government research vessel in Kodiak, Alaska. He later obtained his U.S. Coast Guard merchant marine officer license and began a seagoing career that spanned over a decade. During his career, he sailed on many types of vessels and visited all seven continents.
He came ashore to Portland, Ore., in 2006 and joined a cargo inspection and testing company as branch manager. After a brief stint with a local stevedoring company, Bertapelle oined Talon Marine Services in 2014 as district manager of Columbia River operations. During his time with Talon Marine Services, he also served several terms as a board member andofficer of the Merchants Exchange board of directors, including a term as board president.
– Merchants Exchange
