AAPA Seaports Advisory
March 6, 2025
 
   
Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, Louis E. Sola, is keynoting the 2025 AAPA Legislative Summit – Revitalizing America’s Portsstarting in 12 days.
 
Louis E. Sola was designated Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission in January 2025. Before serving as Chairman, he was a licensed ship and mega yacht broker who served as Chief Executive Officer of Evermarine and as an executive with prestigious yachting firms Northrop and Johnson Yacht and Campers and Nicholsons.
 
Between 1998 and 2004, Chairman Sola served as a consultant with Berkshire Capital and Arden and Price in the Panama Canal Zone. He also developed international finance strategies focusing on the maritime sector in Latin America (including ports, free trade zones and ship repairs) as well as management of greenfield projects. Chairman Sola served in the U.S. Army between 1986 and 1997 as a strategic debriefer and as a counterintelligence agent.
 
Join AAPA, 60+ U.S. ports, and 200 port professionals and executives in Washington, D.C. to learn from experts in our industry and advocate for the future of our ports.
 
 
 
   
The U.S. Federal Government has implemented new tariffs affecting trade with Canada, Mexico, and China, impacting key imports and supply chains across North America. AAPA President & CEO Cary Davis, and Vice President of Government Relations John Bressler, were on Capitol Hill earlier this week monitoring developments and engaging with policymakers to assess the implications for ports.
 
In this video update, they discuss what these policy changes mean for ports across North America, namely Canadian ports.
 
AAPA remains committed to advocating for free trade policies that protect the strength and efficiency of the North American supply chain while ensuring our members stay informed on issues that impact port operations.
 
AAPA President & CEO Cary Davis will be a featured speaker in an upcoming webinar, Impact of Geopolitical Changes on Ports – What Does the New Global Landscape Mean for Trade?, on March 12, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. ET.
 
As part of AAPA’s ongoing efforts to support member ports, Davis will engage with global port leaders to analyze key trade developments, including tariff shifts, shipping security in the Red Sea, and geopolitical risks impacting port competitiveness. This discussion aims to help Western Hemisphere ports navigate policy changes and maintain their position in global trade.
 
Other presenters include:
 - Moderator: Victor Shieh – Strategy and Communications Director, IAPH
 - Nigel Pusey – Chief Executive Officer, Container Trades Statistics Limited
 - Allan Gray – Chief Executive Officer, Sentient Ports
 - Patrick Verhoeven – Managing Director, IAPH
 
 
 
Organizational Development Resource Group, LLC
ROK Technologies, LLC
Governor Wes Moore announced that the Port of Baltimore handled 45.9 million tons of cargo in 2024, making it the second-best year in its history despite disruptions from the Key Bridge collapse. The Port maintained its top ranking for roll-on/roll-off farm and construction machinery and imported forest products while finishing 10th nationally for total cargo volume. Key achievements included launching double-stacked container rail service through the Howard Street Tunnel Project, securing a new five-year contract with Carnival Cruise Line, and receiving a top U.S. Coast Guard security assessment for the 15th consecutive year. The total cargo value reached $62.2 billion, and port activities supported over 273,000 jobs. With continued infrastructure investments and recovery efforts, the Port is positioned for further growth in 2025.
 
 
   
The Port of Hueneme and the City of Port Hueneme welcomed the annual FIRST Robotics Competition for the fourth consecutive year, bringing together 2,000 high school students from around the world to showcase their engineering skills. Hosted inside the FATHOMWERX lab, the event featured the DIVE theme, challenging students to design robots capable of navigating underwater-inspired obstacles while promoting STEAM education and ecological awareness. Supported by the Community Benefit Fund, the competition fosters collaboration between students, educators, and industry leaders to advance technological innovation. Officials from the Port and City presented a ceremonial check to FIRST Robotics, underscoring their commitment to STEM education and workforce development. The event also coincided with the Port of Hueneme’s recent $3.935 million state grant to enhance the California Port Data Partnership Program.
 
 
   
The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) and the Shames My Mountain Co-op have completed the Climate Resiliency Project at Shames Mountain, enhancing its ability to withstand changing winter conditions. PRPA’s Community Investment Fund contributed $181,000 to the $431,000 project, which included regrading the mountain’s base and improving drainage to address lower snowpacks and wet conditions. These upgrades will help extend the skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing season while improving safety for visitors and equipment. Since 2011, PRPA has committed $521,000 to multiple projects supporting Shames Mountain’s infrastructure and accessibility. Approximately 30,000 people visit Shames Mountain annually, benefiting from these continued investments in outdoor recreation.
 
 
   
The Port of Grays Harbor hosted its 10th Annual Business Report, sharing 2024 highlights with over 100 customers, officials, and community leaders. The Westport Marina maintained its status as Washington’s top commercial seafood landing port, while the Satsop Business Park welcomed three new businesses and hosted a major trade event with over 1,100 students. The Port's marine terminals handled a record 3.8 million metric tons of cargo, including new highs for soymeal, liquid bulks, and wood chips, with 149 vessels and 280 pilotage assignments. Additionally, Life Flight began construction on a $1.3 million hangar at Bowerman Airport, and Friends Landing saw a 55% increase in boat launches. Looking ahead, the Port is preparing for transformational projects, including the Terminal 4 Expansion, renewable energy developments, and continued modernization efforts at Westport Marina.
 
 
   
The Port of Everett is bringing back its free Community Bus Tour program on March 27, offering two guided tours showcasing Port operations, international trade, and waterfront developments. In addition, the Port is launching a new Aerospace Logistics Harbor Tour on April 23, highlighting its role in regional aerospace manufacturing and global trade. The popular “Working Waterfront” and “Throwback Thursday” harbor tours will also return in July and August, providing educational insights into the Port’s operations and Everett’s maritime history. Registration is required for all tours, with harbor tours costing $10 per person. More details and sign-ups are available at www.portofeverett.com/porttours.
 
 
   
The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) honored Black History Month by recognizing the contributions of its diverse workforce and commitment to community development. Speaking at Bryan County Middle and High School, GPA’s Director of Workforce Development and Training, Tanya Chisholm, highlighted the organization’s 1,700 employees, including Black American professionals in logistics, shipping, management, and technology. GPA has pledged $6 million to a multi-year initiative supporting affordable and workforce housing in near-port communities, including down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Additionally, GPA continues to invest in programs like the YES+ Student Mentoring Program to empower future leaders. The organization remains committed to fostering an inclusive workforce and strengthening the communities it serves.
 
 
   
North Carolina Ports has completed a new 75,000-square-foot warehouse at the Port of Morehead City, increasing storage capacity for bulk and breakbulk cargo. The $17 million facility, completed in December 2024, enhances port operations by meeting growing demand and supporting North Carolina’s agriculture industry. Approximately 70% of the new space is already committed, contributing to investment and job growth in Eastern North Carolina. The expansion aligns with North Carolina Ports’ strategy to maintain a balance between containerized and general cargo while evaluating future infrastructure investments. The additional capacity improves efficiencies for shippers and strengthens the state’s trade network.
 
 
   
The Government of Quebec has announced $130 million in financial assistance for the Port of Montreal’s Contrecoeur expansion project, supporting increased shipping trade and economic competitiveness. The expansion will raise the port’s capacity to 1.15 million containers, facilitating access to international markets for businesses in Quebec and across Canada. The project is currently in the planning phase, with construction expected to begin by the end of 2025 and operations commencing by 2030. The water-based component is being developed in collaboration with Pomerleau and Aecon, while the selection of a partner for the land-based component is underway. The expansion reinforces the Port of Montreal’s role in North America’s supply chain and strengthens the St. Lawrence River as a key trade corridor.
 
Case Study - How AI-Enhanced Data Fuels Port Growth
Everstream AI®
Port and terminal operators rely on Everstream Analytics to build operational data foundations that deliver value from day one. Everstream’s AI-powered platform analyzes and uncovers opportunity hidden in your vessel, cargo, yard equipment, carbon intensity and productivity metrics data. Improve cargo handling efficiencies, minimize dwell times, streamline operations, and grow your business with Everstream Analytics.
Unlock Port Growth
Advertisement
 
   
PhilaPort has announced the appointment of Jennifer Davies as its new Director of Human Resources, effective February 24. With over 15 years of HR experience, Davies specializes in employee relations, labor relations, compliance, and HR technology integration. She brings expertise in mergers and acquisitions, HR process optimization, and employee engagement, aiming to align HR strategies with PhilaPort’s organizational goals. Holding a degree in industrial psychology and pursuing Six Sigma certification, she is committed to fostering a high-performance, inclusive workplace. PhilaPort continues its mission of modernizing and expanding its facilities to support economic growth and job creation in the Philadelphia region.
 
The Port of Lake Charles is celebrating its 99th anniversary in 2025, reflecting on nearly a century of economic contributions to Southwest Louisiana while preparing for its centennial in 2026. Since its founding in 1926, the Port has grown into one of the nation’s busiest trade hubs and continues to invest in modernization and resilience. Recent infrastructure improvements include upgraded cargo-handling facilities, strengthened terminal structures, and advanced logistics systems to enhance efficiency and storm preparedness. The Port remains focused on innovation and growth, supporting global trade and expanding energy exports. As it approaches its 100-year milestone, the Port of Lake Charles is committed to sustaining its leadership in trade and transportation.
 
Naylor Association Solutions
Maritime Program Coordinator; Austin, Texas; Texas Dept. of Transportation
 
Port Security Guard; Vallejo, California; California State University Maritime Academy
 
Port Director; Pensacola, Florida; City of Pensacola
 
 
Deputy Director, Engineering Division; San Francisco, CA; The Port of San Francisco
 
Project and Planning Officer; Reserve, Louisiana; Port of South Louisiana
 
DEPUTY PORT ATTORNEY III; Oakland, California; Port of Oakland
  
Chief Human Resources Officer; Tacoma, Washington; Port of Tacoma, WA
 
Foreign-Trade Zone Manager; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Port Everglades - Broward County
 
Environmental Services Director; Tacoma, Washington; City of Tacoma
 
Green Marine
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, LLC
A draft order includes measures such as raising revenue from Chinese ships and tax credits and grants for shipyards
Paul Berger
Wall Street Journal
 
Greg Knowler
Journal of Commerce
 
Mike Schuler
gCaptain
 
Logistics Managers’ Index sees inventory spike to start year
Todd Maiden
FreightWaves
 
Laura Curtis, Shawn Donnan and Erik Hertzberg
Bloomberg
 
The world economy could face a crash similar to the Great Depression of the 1930s
Joshua Kirby
Wall Street Journal
 
AJOT
 
Mike Schuler
gCaptain
 
Inflationary fears weigh on manufacturing sentiment
Michael Rudolph
FreightWaves
 
Stas Margaronis
AJOT
 
13
Mar 2025
 
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm ET
 
For more information or a link to attend, please contact AAPA staff liaison, Shannon McLeod at smcleod@aapa-ports.org.
13
Mar 2025
 
Dates: March 13th and 14th
 
Time: TBD
 
Location: Port Tampa Bay - Tampa Bay, Florida
 
For more information, please contact AAPA staff liaison, Holden Haley at hhaley@aapa-ports.org.
18
Mar 2025
 
The AAPA Legislative Summit is the premier port industry government affairs and advocacy forum held annually in Washington, D.C. and will take place March 18-20.

The summit brings together senior port executives from around the nation with federal government leadership to discuss issues important to one of the most critical national industries. AAPA plans and manages private meetings with Congressional leadership for our port executives as part of this event.
18
Mar 2025
 
Time: 8:00 - 11:45 am ET
 
Location: JW Marriott Washington, DC, Salon J
 
For more information, please contact AAPA staff liaisons, Cary Davis at cdavis@aapa-ports.org or Ian Gansler at igansler@aapa-ports.org.
 
*Please note, this is an in-person meeting only.
18
Mar 2025
 
Time: 9:00 - 10:30 am ET
 
Location: JW Marriott Washington, DC, Salon H
 
For more information, please contact AAPA staff liaison, John Bressler at jbressler@aapa-ports.org.
 
*Please note, this is an in-person meeting only.
19
Mar 2025
 
Time: 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET
 
Location: JW Marriott Washington, DC, Salon J
 
For more information, please contact AAPA staff liaisons, Charissa Meikle at cmeikle@aapa-ports.org or Shannon McLeod at smcleod@aapa-ports.org
 
*Please note, this is an in-person meeting only.
8
Apr 2025
 
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm ET

Agenda
Topic 1: AAPA CEO update to the Committee Presented by Cary Davis, CEO/President of AAPA
Topic 2: Municipal Finance (Seaport Sector) Update
 - Presented by Conner Benoit, Senior Vice President, Hilltop Securities Inc.

For more information or a link to attend, please contact AAPA staff liaison, Charissa Meikle at cmeikle@aapa-ports.org.
15
May 2025
 
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 pm ET
 
For more information or a link to attend, please contact AAPA staff liaison, Liz Mancini at lmancini@aapa-ports.org.
Orion Marine Group