Rob Cannizzaro's commitment to the maritime and supply chain industries extends far beyond his day-to-day role in operations. As a Board Member of the Containerization and Intermodal Institute (CII), Rob plays an instrumental part in shaping the future of education and professional development within these sectors. Through his work with CII, Rob Cannizzaro is not only advancing his own career but also empowering the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation and success in the global supply chain ecosystem.

Growing up on the shores of Long Island, Rob developed a deep love for the water early in life, leading him to the State University of New York Maritime College at Fort Schuyler. His academic path eventually led him to complete both a master's degree in Maritime Industry from SUNY Maritime and an MBA from Centenary University of New Jersey, underscoring his lifelong dedication to learning. Rob’s career spans over two decades in the maritime industry, particularly with Hamburg Süd (formerly Columbus Line), where he held key roles, including Vice President of Operations. His extensive experience in port operations, ocean carrier management, logistics, and supply chain innovation has made him a respected leader in the field. 

Through his roles, Rob has consistently focused on collaboration and the importance of fostering connections across the maritime and intermodal landscape. This passion for collaboration and education naturally drew Rob to CII. “I wanted to be part of an organization that was not just focused on the business side of things, but also on building the next generation of leaders,” he says. "CII is where education meets real-world applications — it’s about making sure that students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities the industry presents."

Rob’s unique combination of industry experience, leadership, and dedication to education makes him an invaluable member of CII’s Board. His continued efforts to bridge the gap between academia and the practical needs of the industry ensure that CII remains at the forefront of shaping the future of supply chain education. As the Chair of the Education Committee, Rob, alongside fellow committee members, plays a key role in ensuring that the curriculum and training opportunities available to students align with the industry's evolving needs “What excites me about CII is the way we bring together industry experts and educators to discuss how to better prepare students. It’s not just about theory, it’s about understanding the industry’s pulse,” he says. The committee works closely with the Academic Advisory Committee, composed of professors and educators, to ensure that students gain both theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for the challenges they will face in the real-world logistics environment.

One of Rob's most rewarding experiences at CII has been his involvement in scholarship programs. Through these scholarships, CII provides crucial financial assistance to students pursuing careers in the containerization and intermodal industries. “I’ve seen firsthand how scholarships can make all the difference. It’s not always about full tuition; sometimes it’s about giving someone the chance to focus on their studies without worrying about basic needs,” he says. 

The personal connections made during scholarship presentations, where donors meet the students they are helping, are one of the most fulfilling parts of his role. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of the scholarships in real time, to meet the students and hear how much it means to them," he says.

As a mentor and mentee, Rob understands the power of professional networks. Over the years, he has built strong relationships with industry peers and leaders who share his commitment to collaboration. "The most valuable lessons I’ve learned didn’t just come from books or classrooms; they came from working alongside people who were willing to share their knowledge and experiences," he says. These relationships have not only contributed to his professional development but also allowed him to give back to the industry by guiding younger professionals and fostering an environment where new ideas and solutions can thrive.

“The future of our industry depends on education. Without it, we can’t continue to innovate or stay ahead of global challenges. That’s what CII is all about — investing in the future,” he says. By fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning, Rob is helping to ensure that future generations are equipped with the skills and networks necessary to succeed in the dynamic and ever-evolving maritime and intermodal industries.