Port Houston held a small business forum focused on doing business with the port’s maintenance services team Sept. 27.

Senior Director of Maintenance Paulo Soares shared some of the port’s best practices and procedures for procuring operations and equipment-focused contracts.

The port’s maintenance department is responsible for the purchase, support and repair of terminal equipment, docks and container yards, including major assets like ship-to-shore and rubber-tired gantry cranes.

“We practice safe and reliable maintenance work to exceed our customer’s needs,” said Soares, who noted that a good number of port contracts are awarded to small businesses.

The port also complies with safety and environmental policies, which all contractors must follow as well.

Port Houston’s small business and education outreach department was on site to provide information about other upcoming events and business opportunities. The event was held at the port's executive building. 

To get more information about Port Houston’s Small Business Program and a listing of procurement opportunities, please visit www.porthouston.com. 

The port’s next small business industry-specific forum will be held on Oct. 10 and will feature Port Houston’s environmental affairs team.