Robert Heinrich, Annual Forum Committee Chair and Transportation Specialist, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, announced that Bob Imbriani, UNZ & Co., will be presenting a training course at the COSTHA Annual Forum Monday, April 23, 2007 from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas, Scottsdale, AZ. The training is entitled “C-TPAT and The Hazardous Materials Importer/Shipper”.  

This program will provide the participant with an in-depth knowledge of the purpose, background and future of C-TPAT. It will provide “hands on” knowledge on the elements of a security program to include, personnel, information, facility, conveyance and more. It will also provide training and information on how: 

• C-TPAT relates to and affects shippers of hazardous materials

• To apply for participation in the program

• To create a "Memorandum of Understanding"

• To create a security program

• To create and analyze a security questionnaire

• To establish a verification process

• To create a continuing improvement process

• C-TPAT relates to DOT, TSA, FAA and other domestic transportation programs.

The program will also provide information on other security programs such as FAST, Container Security and others. It is a must attend program for anyone who imports hazardous materials.

C-TPAT is a voluntary government business initiative to build cooperative relationships that strengthen and improve the overall international supply chain and U.S. border security. C-TPAT recognizes that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can provide the highest level of cargo security only through close cooperation with the ultimate owners of the international supply chain such as importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers. C-TPAT offers trade related businesses an opportunity to play an active role in the war against terrorism. By participating in this first worldwide supply chain security initiative, companies will ensure a more secure and expeditious supply chain for their employees, suppliers and customers. Companies who import hazardous materials have always had a higher concern for security. C-TPAT participation is an excellent way to improve their level of security and partner with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to insure a fully integrated and compliant security system from origin to destination.

Mr. Imbriani has been in the international/domestic transportation and logistics field for almost four decades.  He has held various executive positions with major U.S. Customs Brokers/Freight Forwarders.  He is currently Vice President, International Development, of Team Air Express/Team Worldwide.  He also holds the positions of President for Team Worldwide Ltd. (Canada) and Team Customs Brokerage and Managing Director of Team Worldwide UK, Ltd.  Bob is a well-known speaker and educator in the areas of transportation, logistic solutions, customs brokerage, supply chain management, trade development and financial services.  He is an adjunct professor in these areas at Pace University and Baruch College in New York City. He is also a certified instructor/consultant with UNZ & CO.

Mr. Imbriani is a recognized authority in the international logistics field having provided "expert" testimony in numerous court actions.  He is a regular contributor to and has been quoted in major trade publications such as Air Cargo Magazine, The American Shipper, The Journal of Commerce, World Trade Magazine, IOMA’S Report on Managing Exports & Imports, The Shipping Digest and others.

For more details about the training courses industry participants are encouraged to visit the COSTHA web site – www.costha.com - http://www.costha.com/2007Forum/TrainingSchedule.htm.