Port Powerhouse: Barbara Melvin on Deepwater Vision, Inland Reach, and Real-World Logistics

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with Barbara Melvin, President and CEO of South Carolina Ports and the first woman to lead a top 10 operating U.S. container port. From harbor deepening to chassis pools, inland rail to cultural change, Barbara offers a powerful, practical look at what it really takes to run a modern, customer-focused port.

 Big Ships, Big Vision

Barbara explains how Charleston became home to the deepest harbor on the East Coast, capable of handling today’s ultra-large container vessels. But it’s not just about water depth, it’s about having the right people, the right infrastructure, and a mindset that balances operational performance with long-term sustainability.

 Expanding Inland, Extending Impact

The episode dives into the success of inland ports in Greer and Dillon, which have redefined how the port connects with customers 200+ miles away. Greer now handles more than 200,000 annual rail lifts, 4x the industry standard of success, while Dillon services key export markets in forest products and agriculture.

These facilities expand reach, relieve port congestion, and create new opportunities for businesses across the Southeast.

 Growth with a Conscience

When asked how SC Ports balances rapid growth with environmental responsibility, Barbara doesn't hesitate: it’s about transparency, community engagement, and collaboration with environmental groups. She points out that ports must be both economic engines and stewards of place.

"A port that operates invisibly in its community is winning. But a port that earns its community’s pride- that’s leading."

 Leadership Lessons from a Trailblazer

Barbara closes the episode with candid and inspiring advice for the next generation of logistics leaders:

1. “Get at the big table”-especially for women in the industry

2. Look beyond your own walls and understand the entire supply chain

3. Learn to take bad news well - otherwise people will stop telling you the truth

4. You either win or you learn - and both outcomes move you forward

"If you become an isolated leader, you're not a leader at all- you’re just filling a desk."

A Container’s Story

In a memorable moment, Barbara shares a real-world example of teamwork and purpose:

During a hurricane recovery effort, one container full of urgently needed goods made it off a vessel, through the terminal, and out the gate just in time to restore power for a family in North Carolina. That kind of compassionate, coordinated effort, across pilots, stevedores, motor carriers, and the port team, is what sets South Carolina Ports apart.

"If you're a container coming through our port, you're not just a box- you're a good that belongs to someone. And we treat it that way."

🔑 Key Takeaways

1. Ports are more than infrastructure - they’re culture, strategy, and community.

2. South Carolina Ports leads with clarity, creativity, and commitment.

3. Real leadership looks like empathy, honest communication, and a relentless drive to solve problems.

 Listen now to Episode 39 of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics – available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your logistics fix.

📌 Quote to remember:

“The future of logistics isn’t just about containers and cranes- it’s about courage and creativity.”