A native of Gramercy, Louisiana, Patricia Landry landed her first job in the maritime industry in 1991. “It was another world on the other side of the levee that I never knew existed,” she recalled. She didn’t know it then, but this new world she was just introduced to would become an important part of her future.
After working two years as an Assistant Dispatcher, Patricia moved into the role of full-time Dispatcher at Cooper Consolidated Mile 164. “That’s when I really found my footing,” she said. “From that point on, I was hooked and ever since I’ve been continually developing my skills and pushing myself to learn more.” Part of the industry for 29 years and with Cooper Consolidated for 26 of those, Patricia is grateful for her long tenure with the company. “Working for the same company for so long and getting experience in different areas, has given me a unique opportunity to see how all sides of the organization operates.”
Working a seven on/seven off shift schedule as a Dispatcher, Patricia is responsible for dispatching fleets from both Mile 164 and Nucor Steel. As one might imagine, her days are filled with multitasking, planning, delegating, providing outstanding customer service, and meeting tight deadlines.
“My primary responsibility is to ensure a steady flow of grain to the Zen-Noh Grain elevator in Convent, Louisiana,” she explained. “I work closely with Zen-Noh to discharge barges and work with all carriers to get barges cleaned and scheduled for their next job.”
Additionally, Patricia tracks and delegates jobs to Cooper Consolidated’s nine pushboats to ensure the fleet’s horsepower is being utilized to its fullest potential.
“The role of Dispatcher is critical to the company’s success,” Patricia said. “From the moment we arrive at work and until the time we leave for home, we’re not only managing current jobs and processes, but planning for the next 24 to 72 hours.”
Patricia is amazed at how the industry has grown over the years, and is proud to be part of the Cooper Consolidated team. “I couldn’t succeed in this role if not for the wonderful team I work with and all of the tools that are provided for me to do my job to the best of my abilities,” she admitted. “I’m very thankful for our Management team, Logistical team, shipyard personnel, and the vessels and crews that work in our fleet.”
In this fast-paced job, it takes a special type of person to keep up with the demands of the day. “You have to be on our A-game at all times, organized and detail oriented,” Patricia explained. “We have that here on our team.”