News Release
FOR RELEASE - October 28, 2024
Contact: Shawn Balcomb, press@aapa-ports.org

American Association of Port Authorities
Phone: (202) 792-4033
www.aapa-ports.org

AAPA Congratulates 2024 Port Professional Manager (PPM®) Graduates, Announces The Pasha Group as Presenting Sponsor

Washington, D.C. — The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is proud to announce and congratulate the 2024 graduates of the Port Professional Manager (PPM®) program, with an official ceremony set to take place at the upcoming AAPA Annual Convention in Boston on Tuesday, October 29. This year's cohort exemplifies excellence in the maritime industry, further advancing professional development within the sector.

The 2024 graduates are:

1. Mike Bomar, Director of Economic Development, Port of Vancouver USA
2. Matthew Creswell, Harbormaster, City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska, Docks & Harbors
3. Ceasar C. Duarte, Jr., Director of Engineering & Operations, New Bedford Port Authority
4. Helga Sommer, Acting Assistant Director, Capital, Port Miami
5. Connie Le Fevre, Senior Trade Representative, Maritime Commercial, Port of San Diego
6. Donovan Hutchinson, Acting Deputy Director, Finance, Port Authority of the Cayman Islands
7. Kevin R. Beardsley, Chief Financial Officer, Duluth Seaway Port Authority
8. Anna Silva, HSE & Cruise Ops Manager, Port Everglades Terminals, LLC
9. Katie Miller, Deputy Port Director, Administration, Stockton Port District

In addition, AAPA is thrilled to announce The Pasha Group as the official presenting sponsor of the Port Professional Development programs, which includes three professional development pathways: Port Professional Associate (PPA), Port Professional Executive (PPX), and the Port Professional Manager (PPM) programs. This exclusive sponsorship demonstrates Pasha’s commitment to the future of the maritime industry and the professional growth of port leaders across the Americas.

The AAPA Professional Development programs focus on professionals throughout all phases of their career to ensure there is a steady pipeline of talent to lead ports in the future. Pasha’s support will enable continued growth, innovation, and excellence within the program, fostering the next generation of port leaders.

Commenting on this milestone, AAPA President and CEO Cary Davis said, “We are thrilled to welcome The Pasha Group as the presenting sponsor of the AAPA Professional Development programs. Their generous support not only demonstrates their commitment to the future of the maritime industry but also underscores the importance of developing strong leaders who will drive innovation and success across our ports. I also want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 graduates, whose dedication and hard work are shaping the next era of port leadership.”

George Pasha, IV, President and CEO of The Pasha Group, emphasized the company’s dedication to professional advancement, stating, “The Pasha Group is proud to support the prestigious Professional Development programs and their development of future port leaders. Our partnership aligns with our mission to drive growth and innovation across North America's vital gateways and supply chain.”

For more information about AAPA’s Professional Development programs, please visit www.aapa-ports.org/ProfessionalDevelopment.

About AAPA:

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is the unified voice of port leaders and maritime industry partners across the Western Hemisphere who serve a vital role in job-creation, international competitiveness, and economic prosperity. Connecting small business owners, retailers, and manufacturers to the global marketplace, AAPA member organizations advocate for national policies and infrastructure investments in support of a resilient global supply chain and a positive impact on the way people live, work, travel, and engage in commerce.