From the Margins of the Manual

Manuals are written to capture what we know, but the margins are where we scribble notes, underline what matters, and add reminders from experience.
The margins are personal. They’re where the official meets the practical.

Latest Articles

Beyond the Helm: Developing Maritime Decision-Makers

From Operator to Operational Leader Every year, maritime first responders across the United States invest countless hours developing the technical skills required to safely execute operations on the water. They become proficient coxswains, tactical operators, maritime law enforcement officers, firefighters, rescue personnel, and emergency responders. They master vessel handling, navigation, search techniques, communications, emergency procedures,…

The Human Layer of Port Resilience

Earlier this year, I attended discussions focused on the future of ports, a topic that naturally centers on innovation, automation, infrastructure modernization, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Following that event, I wrote about what I believed was a missing component in many conversations surrounding the future of our nation’s ports: the human element. The discussions I…

About the Author

Courtney Livingston, PhD, is a nationally recognized leader in maritime first responder training, readiness, and the human factors that drive operational performance. Learn more.