The AAPA Annual Convention took place October 13-16 with a much-anticipated return to Norfolk, Virginia. The Port of Virginia and AAPA would like to thank the many attendees, including fellow port colleagues, speakers, sponsors and exhibitors, for another spectacular conference. This year’s convention included technical and policy committee meetings, a “Revolutionary Challenge” in the exhibit hall, and business sessions and social events that enabled port professionals and stakeholders to share information on key issues facing ports and expand business contacts.

Chris Connor, AAPA’s new president and CEO took over the helm of the organization, and Kurt Nagle, long-time president and CEO, officially retired after serving nearly 35 years. Kurt was honored for his dedicated service to the port industry and was presented with AAPA’s Distinguished Service Award by outgoing AAPA Chairman of the Board Will Friedman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority. Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson officially began his role as AAPA’s Chairman and was handed the gavel by past chairman Friedman. Kurt Nagle presented Will with a token of appreciation and gratitude to commemorate his dedication to AAPA and the port industry. The entire slate of 2019-20 delegation officers and board of directors were also installed during a membership meeting at AAPA's 108th Annual Convention.

Planning is already underway for the 109th Annual Convention, so get your passports ready to join us in Québec, September 13-16, 2020! Stay tuned for further details.

The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) welcomes transportation business development executive Alberto Cabrera as Director, Cruise and Cargo Development. Port of Vancouver USA Commissioner Jerry Oliver received a Distinguished Service Award from the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association.