Tanya Alvaro is President of the Eastern Canada Response Corporation- La Société d’intervention maritime, est du Canada (ECRC-SIMEC), bringing extensive leadership experience from the Government of Canada, including roles with the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard. A strategic policy expert with a strong maritime background, she specializes in long-term planning and organizational vision. Tanya holds advanced degrees from Western University and the Royal Military College of Canada and is a graduate of the Canadian Forces College’s National Security Programme. 

Alan Arcand is Chief Economist at Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME).  

As part of the National Policy team, he leads CME’s major national research initiatives, which include producing economic forecasts, developing policy reports, and designing and managing surveys. He also supports the association’s government relations and public engagement efforts, regularly presenting to manufacturers, policymakers, and other key audiences. 

Before joining CME, Alan spent 20 years with The Conference Board of Canada where he held multiple roles, including the Associate Director of the Centre for Municipal Studies. Alan’s background includes expertise in municipal, regional, and national economic matters, with a focus on economic forecasting and policy. 

Alan has an M.A. in Economics from Queen’s University and a B.A. in International Relations from the University of Windsor. 

Jim Athanasiou was named President and CEO of the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) in July 2024, after holding several senior executive positions in the organization. His educational background includes engineering and management studies, and prior to joining the Seaway in 2008, he worked in the pulp and paper industry. His leadership is currently focused on growth and ensuring the long-term viability of the St. Lawrence Seaway and the many partners and stakeholders who depend on the waterway for their livelihood and their sustainability.

Chris Avery is the President & CEO of the Arctic Gateway Group (AGG), an Indigenous- and community-owned organization that owns and operates the Hudson Bay Railway and the Port of Churchill. Chris is an accomplished executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in the transportation industry. Since his appointment in July 2024, he has championed Churchill and the railway as a critical Canadian infrastructure that unlocks new economic opportunities for northern Manitoba and strengthens national supply chains. Under his leadership AGG has set a vision to be a major port in Canada and a significant set of trade enabling infrastructure in support of our national goals to diversify our trade, become an energy super power, and assert our sovereignty in the North.

As the former President & CEO of Canadian North and First Air, Chris led the successful merger and integration of the two airlines and guided the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, Canadian North was named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies and recognized as Regional Airline of the Year (2022) by Air Transport World. He spent 13 years at WestJet in a variety of senior leadership roles and has also held management positions with Alaska Airlines, Canadian Airlines, and other companies in the travel and transportation sectors.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Economics from Western University and an MBA from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University and serves on the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Board of Directors.

Sean is the Director, Marine Operations & Harbour Master at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. With over 20 years of experience in the maritime and ports industry, he is a recognized leader in marine and port operations. Sean is responsible for safe and efficient navigation and environmental protection at Canada’s largest port. He led the implementation of the Active Vessel Traffic Management program and was named a Business in Vancouver Forty Under 40 award recipient in 2025.

Captain Cédric Baumelle is a maritime executive and Master Mariner with more than 30 years of experience in marine operations, pilotage, regulatory oversight, and maritime safety. As Chief Operational Officer for the Great Lakes Pilotage Authority (GLPA), he provides leadership and strategic oversight for pilotage operations across the Great Lakes region, ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of vessels through one of North America's most important marine transportation corridors. 

Prior to joining the GLPA in March 2026, Captain Baumelle served as Director of Marine Operations for the Shipping Federation of Canada, where he led national pilotage files, port operations, and regulatory initiatives. In this role, he represented the interests of more than 200 shipping companies operating within Canada's marine transportation system. 

Earlier in his career, Captain Baumelle held several senior leadership positions with Transport Canada, including National Manager of the Pilotage and Port State Control Program and Manager of Maritime Safety in Montréal. His extensive experience also includes serving as a Marine Inspector, Navigation Instructor, and Master on commercial vessel, with operational experience throughout the St. Lawrence River, Great Lakes, northern waters, and Canada's coastal regions. 

A graduate of the Maritime Institute of Québec, Captain Baumelle holds a Canadian Master Mariner Certificate. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for operational excellence, regulatory expertise, and a strong commitment to advancing marine safety and the efficiency of Canada's maritime transportation network. 

Appointed to the position of Vice President Operations/ Harbour Master Mr. Berry assumed the role as the primary Traffic Control Officer, Chief Enforcement Officer, Port Development Officer and Lead Port Security Officer for the Windsor Port Authority.  

In that role Mr. Berry works closely with all levels of law enforcement and marine agencies within Canada and the United States. The Port of Windsor is one of 17 Federal port authorities and the only port with direct proximity to the international border. 

Mr. Berry is the Vice Chair on the Executive Committee of the US Coast Guard Southeast Michigan Area Maritime Security Committee including several sub-committees, Past Chair of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities Security Committee, and Executive Member of the National Ports Security Committee as well as numerous marine domain management committees in both the United States and Canada. 

In March 2026, Peter was appointed by the Governor General as the Honorary Captain assigned to the HMCS Hunter Navy Reserve Unit. 

Recipient of the following awards: 

- Department of Homeland Security/ United States Coast Guard Public Service Commendation 2019 

- United States Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation 2011 Labour Day Presidential Security Zone Enforcement Team 

- Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (Yugoslavia 1994) 

- Canada Customs Foreign Service Medal  

- United Nations Protection Force (Yugoslavia) Medal 

- Queen Elizabeth ll Golden Jubilee Medal 

- Marine Professional of the Year 2025 Canadian Association of Safe Boating 

Alexandre Beauchamp-Parent is President and General Manager of Navigation Desgagnés, where he oversees the commercial operations of a fleet of 13 dry-cargo vessels operating across the St. Lawrence, Great Lakes, Atlantic Canada and international markets. 

Since joining Desgagnés in 2013, he has played a key role in modernizing and growing the company’s dry cargo business through fleet renewal, operational optimization and the expansion of its international presence. He is actively involved in advancing short sea shipping as a resilient and sustainable complement to existing transportation networks. He works closely with ports, shippers and industry partners to strengthen the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence trade corridor and enhance the competitiveness, efficiency and attractiveness of marine transportation within Canada’s logistics ecosystem. 

Prior to joining SNC-Lavalin Capital, Alexandre was involved in structuring equity investments and debt financing for major transportation and infrastructure concession projects in Canada and Europe. 

Alexandre holds an MBA with Distinction from London Business School, as well as Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering from Polytechnique Montréal.

A graduate in Applied Geology, Paul Bird has extensive experience managing large-scale projects. Since joining the Montreal Port Authority (MPA) in 2020 as Senior Director of the Contrecoeur Expansion Project, and later serving as Executive Vice-President, Business Development and Operations, he has played a key role in securing environmental permits, finalizing the project's design and engineering, developing partnership agreements, and launching the initial preparatory work for the terminal project. Prior to joining the MPA, he was responsible for infrastructure development for the mining, rail, and port sectors at ArcelorMittal for nearly ten years.

Paul Blomerus leads the team at Clear Seas as they work to advance the safety and sustainability of marine shipping. Before joining the organization in 2020, he worked in a variety of industry roles including supply chain, product development and strategy positions for Westport Innovations and Rolls Royce. Through his consulting work, he has specialized in the impact of technology on the transportation sector and building innovation clusters through university research. He holds a PhD in engineering science from the University of Oxford.

Assistant Deputy Director of Marine Operations (ADDMO) William Carroll of the US Customs and Border Proetction/Air and Marine Operations (CBP/AMO) began his federal career on March 10, 1997 with the United States Border Patrol in San Diego, CA. In December of 2003, ADDMO Carroll transferred to the US Border Patrol Trenton (Gibraltar), MI Station in Detroit and then he later became a CBP/AMO Marine Interdiction Agent in Trenton Michigan.  

In December of 2025, ADDMO Carroll was named the Assistant Deputy Director of Marine Operations (ADDMO) for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Air and Marine Operations (AMO), Great Lakes Air and Marine Branch (GLAMB). ADDMO Carroll oversees four marine units from Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan to Sandusky, Ohio who conduct land and maritime law enforcement, provide domain awareness, respond to terror threats/incidents, provide disaster relief, and assist with National Special Security Events both locally and throughout the US. 

ADDMO Carroll has served over 29 years in a law enforcement capacity between his years in the US Border Patrol and CBP Air and Marine Operations. ADDMO Carroll studied marine engineering at the State University of New York Maritime College in New York and Criminal Justice at National University in San Diego, CA ADDMO Carroll holds a US Coast Guard, Master of Uninspected Vessels license (100 ton) with a commercial towing endorsement and he has been working on The Detroit River, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie since 2004. 

Joseph (J.J.) Chayeski serves as the Director of CBSA Operations at the Ambassador Bridge District in Windsor, Ontario. He embarked on his public service career in 1992, amassing extensive experience in border operations and project management across various roles in the Pacific Region, Southern Ontario Region and internationally. Throughout his career, he has held numerous leadership positions, which have equipped him with a diverse skill set and a wealth of expertise particularly with regards to commercial, traveller, postal, intelligence and marine operations throughout British Columbia, Ontario and the Middle East.  

Following his relocation, Director Chayeski embraced new challenges and successfully expanded several initiatives at the Ambassador Bridge District, with a particular focus on combating smuggling in the Windsor Corridor. This success was achieved through close collaboration with partners and enforcement agencies, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness and keeping Canadian communities safe. 

Director Chayeski holds a B.A. Liberal Arts and Business Studies from Simon Fraser University, supplemented by a range of management and technical training that further enriches his professional qualifications. His dedication and strategic mindset have been pivotal in advancing the objectives of the CBSA in the region. 

Mike was appointed the Chief Executive Office of the Charlottetown Harbour Authority Inc. (CHAI) operating as Port Charlottetown in May 2018.  Under his leadership, Port Charlottetown has redefined the role of a modern port — focusing on large-scale shore-side development, visitor experience, and sustainable growth. Mike has been a driving force behind more than $50 million in capital development projects throughout Charlottetown’s downtown waterfront district, helping to create a thriving hub that blends commercial vitality with community access and cultural appeal. 

Since joining Port Charlottetown, he spearheaded construction of an expansion project which doubled berth capacity to accommodate cruise industry growth in Charlottetown.  He stays abreast of current industry trends with a particular focus on decarbonization initiatives such as shore power and sustainable operational growth. With a focus on customer service and balancing user needs, he believes Ports must modernize and adapt to current trends to the industries they serve.  

A recognized leader in Atlantic Canada’s tourism and marine sectors, Mike guided the successful return of the cruise industry to Charlottetown and Atlantic Canada following the pandemic, rebuilding relationships with international cruise lines and ensuring the port’s readiness through safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations. His commitment to sustainable cruise growth is reflected in Port Charlottetown’s long-term environmental strategy — one that balances economic opportunity with stewardship of the Island’s coastal ecosystem. 

Beyond port operations, Mike has championed initiatives that celebrate Prince Edward Island’s culinary excellence and creative culture, positioning the waterfront as a destination where visitors can experience the Island’s authentic food, music, and community spirit. Through collaboration with local partners, Port Charlottetown continues to integrate tourism, economic development, and sustainability into every aspect of its operations. 

With decades of leadership experience and a passion for community development, Mike Cochrane remains dedicated to strengthening Charlottetown’s position as a premier cruise and waterfront destination — one that connects global visitors to the heart and hospitality of Prince Edward Island. 

Captain Edward S. Dahlgren is a senior maritime executive with over 45 years of leadership experience in Canada’s marine transportation sector. Currently serving as Vice President of Operations & Harbour Master at the Nanaimo Port Authority, Captain Dahlgren has held key roles with the Canadian Coast Guard, BC Ferries, Seaspan Marine, and the Department of National Defence. He is recognized for his expertise in harbour management, marine infrastructure development, navigational safety, and regulatory compliance within federally regulated environments. Throughout his career, Captain Dahlgren has built strong relationships with Indigenous communities, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, supporting safe, sustainable, and commercially resilient port operations. His collaborative leadership and deep operational knowledge have contributed to major infrastructure projects and modernization initiatives across the Salish Sea and Fraser River regions. 

Captain Caren Damon assumed duty as the Commander of Sector Detroit in June 2026. She oversees eleven subordinate units executing all maritime safety, security, and environmental missions across an area of responsibility stretching from Vermillion, Ohio west and northward beyond Tawas, Michigan along 427 miles of international border with Canada through Lakes Erie, St. Clair, and Huron and along the Detroit and St. Clair Rivers. Captain Damon serves as the Captain of the Port, Federal On-Scene Coordinator, Officer in Charge of Marine Inspections, and Federal Maritime Security Coordinator, as well as Active Search Suspension Authority.

Prior to assuming command of Sector Detroit, Captain Damon served as Deputy Sector Commander of Maryland-National Capital Region (NCR) overseeing eight multi-mission stations, three aids to navigation teams, and a cutter. In this role, she served as the initial Incident Commander for the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in 2024. Prior to Maryland-NCR, Captain Damon served as the Executive Assistant to the Deputy Commandant for Personnel Readiness. This assignment forged a unique opportunity for Captain Damon to lead the 27th Commandant’s Continuity Team and Action Plan Execution Team to drive the first female Service Chief’s strategic vision for the Coast Guard.

In previous assignments, Captain Damon served as the Chief of Maritime Law Enforcement and Homeland Security at Sector Houston-Galveston, Texas directly supervising the Sector boarding team, four cutters and five Level 1 ports, waterways, and coastal security stations. She also served as the Response Department Head at Marine Safety Unit Texas City, Texas; Command Duty Officer and Assistant Chief of Incident Management at Sector New York, NY; and Chief of Incident Management at Sector Sault Ste. Marie, where she helped transition the once Group/Marine Safety Office (MSO) to an all-hazards, all-threats Sector. As a prior Marine Science Technician, Captain Damon served in the Port Operations Department at Group/MSO Philadelphia, PA and MSO Valdez, Alaska.

Captain Damon graduated from Old Dominion University with an M.S. in Instructional Design Technology and a Certificate in Modeling and Simulation and went on to serve as Chief of the Design and Development Branch at the Coast Guard’s Performance Technology Center in Yorktown, Virginia. In this role, Captain Damon managed the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of new and existing human performance interventions, using electronic performance and training technologies in arenas determined to have the most significant return-on-investment.

Captain Damon grew up in Montgomery County, Maryland. She’s married to ENG3 Scott Damon, and they have two children, Carly (19) and Cole (15). Prior to enlisting in the Coast Guard, Captain Damon graduated from Coastal Carolina University with a B.S. in Marine Science and Biology.

Captain Damon’s personal awards include five Meritorious Service Medals, five Coast Guard Commendation Medals, four Coast Guard Achievement Medals, and the Volunteer Service Medal. In addition to other medals and awards, she also earned the Response Ashore, Prevention Ashore, and Basic Boat Forces Insignias.

Drew Dilkens is a lifelong resident of the City of Windsor. He holds business and law degrees from the University of Windsor (called to the bar in 2012) and an M.B.A. from Wayne State University. He received his Doctorate of Business Administration from the International School of Management in Paris, France with a focus on municipal amalgamation in Ontario. He obtained the Chartered Director (C.Dir.) designation from The Directors College (2021), and also holds the professional designation of a Certified Human Resources Leader, along with training certificates from the Canadian Foreign Service Institute, Canadian Securities Institute and Federal Bureau of Investigations in the United States.

Drew Dilkens was elected Mayor of the City of Windsor on October 27, 2014. He was re-elected on October 22, 2018, for his second term, and on October 24, 2022, for his third term. Mayor Dilkens is committed to a program of fiscal discipline, economic diversification, and investment in growth for the City of Windsor. Since being elected, he has continued to focus on improving the city’s infrastructure – including roads and sewers, holding the line on taxes, supporting economic development that creates jobs and attracts investments, and positioning Windsor as a destination of choice for those looking to build homes, careers, and families.

In 2017, Mayor Dilkens presented an 8-Point Plan to address flooding – including a push to expedite completion of the City’s Sewer Master Plan; the $5B plan for the next 50 years of sewer investments received Council approval in 2020. Under Mayor Dilkens’ leadership, significant investments have been made, and master plans approved that guide work for roadways, public transit, active transportation, parks, recreation and culture, public art initiatives, theming and districting, and more. While leading the community through major climate events involving floods and tornadoes, as well as the global pandemic (2020-2022), Mayor Dilkens also spearheaded the “Windsor Works” initiative to develop an economic strategy for Windsor’s future growth. Less than a year after Council adopted the plan, Mayor Dilkens helped secure a monumental investment of $5B for the first domestic EV battery manufacturing facility (NextStar) – the largest investment in Canada’s auto industry, and one of the largest investments in Windsor in a century. The results of that plan are also tied to Windsor attracting and leveraging additional opportunities connected to large-scale infrastructure projects including the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the new Windsor-Essex Acute Care Hospital, and more.

As communities across Ontario and Canada have tackled significant challenges connected to housing and the impacts of homelessness, mental health, and addictions issues, Mayor Dilkens led the City’s establishment of the H4 Homelessness and Housing Help Hub to support vulnerable residents. He was also a key leader in developing the Housing Solutions Made for Windsor plan, and helping to create a robust Downtown Windsor Revitalization strategy.

Larissa Fenn is Vice President, Corporate Affairs at HOPA Ports, leading a team responsible for strategic initiatives, public affairs, sustainability reporting, corporate governance and culture.

In progressive roles over 14 years, Larissa has helped to define and execute the strategy that has grown HOPA Ports into Ontario’s largest and most dynamic port authority. Her previous experience includes policy and communications management roles in financial services and municipal government.

Larissa holds a B.A. in Political Science from Queen’s University, and an MBA from the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University. A champion for the Great Lakes and vibrant waterfront cities, Larissa serves as a Board Member of the Ontario Marine Council and is former Vice Chair of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton/Burlington, Ontario.

Grantly Franklin is a Canadian diplomat serving as Consul for Political, Economic, and Public Affairs at the Consulate General of Canada in Detroit. A proud graduate of the University of Windsor, he spent ten years on Parliament Hill before joining the foreign service. He has previously served at the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations in New York and the Embassy of Canada to the United States in Washington, D.C.

Grantly works to strengthen Canada-U.S. ties by engaging leaders and policymakers, supporting intergovernmental coordination, and advancing shared priorities on trade, economic competitiveness, and regional cooperation. Outside of work, he is a dad to two young boys, enjoys exploring local cafés, and cheers on the Toronto Raptors whenever his schedule allows.

Daniel-Robert Gooch has served as President and CEO of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) since February 2022. Reporting to ACPA’s Board of Directors, he leads the association’s five-member team and oversees the operations of the national organization representing Canada’s port authorities. He also plays a leading role in engagement with the federal government, industry partners, and the media on issues affecting ACPA and its members. 

Before joining ACPA, Daniel spent 16 years with the Canadian Airports Council (CAC), including 11 years as President. In that role, he led the organization’s Ottawa office, directed government advocacy and industry promotion efforts, and coordinated policy and regulatory initiatives to advance the interests of Canada’s airport sector. 

Daniel brings nearly 30 years of experience in government and industry relations, communications, and marketing, with a particular focus on transportation and aviation. Prior to joining the CAC, he was Publisher and Editor of Commercial Aviation Today, a daily electronic news publication serving airline industry executives worldwide. He also worked in marketing and media relations for U.S. and Canadian clients in the financial services, healthcare, and business-to-business technology sectors. 

Daniel holds a degree in Political Science and History from Concordia University in Montreal. 

Matt Grant is a Director at KPMG Canada, where he leads the Digital Twin Centre of Excellence. He helps port authorities turn fragmented operational data into a governed foundation for insight, prediction, and simulation. His focus is on helping ports move from simply seeing their operations to predicting and simulating their future, on infrastructure they own and control.

Vicki Gruber is the Director of Safety & Security and Harbour Master at the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports).  

Vicki joined the Harbour Master’s Office/Port Patrol team in Hamilton in 2006. She became Patrol Supervisor in 2014 and was promoted later that year to Manager of Port Security and Harbour Master. In 2021, she advanced to Director of Safety & Security/Harbour Master, overseeing HOPA Ports’ port security, marine operations, emergency management, and health and safety portfolios. 

With more than 30 years of experience in the security industry, Vicki is actively involved in a number of community and professional organizations. She previously served on the Board of Directors for Mission to Seafarers Southern Ontario and is a recognized leader in port security governance, serving as Chair of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities’ Port Security Committee and a representative on National Port Security Committee.

Vicki graduated with honours from the Emergency Management program at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology.

Dave is a northeast Ohio native and has more than 30 years of experience in transportation and logistics, including senior level operations and business development positions in trucking, intermodal, and third-party logistics. He joined the Port as Vice-President of Maritime & Logistics in 2010, was promoted to Chief Commercial Officer in 2018, served as Interim President & CEO beginning January 1, 2025, and was named Chief Operating Officer on October 15, 2025. His responsibilities include the strategic management of all aspects of the maritime functions at the Port, including business development and operations. He sits on various local and national maritime and logistics committees and boards focusing on marketing and business development in the cargo industry. He graduated from Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH with a BA in Economics. He and his wife, Julie, have two grown children and after living in southwestern Ohio in the 1990’s, relocated back to northeast Ohio in 2001.

Chief Executive Officer of Ship and Rail Compensation Canada and Administrator of the Ship Fund and the Rail Fund Caroline Healey is the Chief Executive Officer of Ship and Rail Compensation Canada. She was appointed Administrator of the Ship Fund and Rail Fund in March 2025 for a five-year term. Ship and Rail Compensation Canada is the joint operating name for the two Funds.

She holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) in North American common law from the Université de Montréal, a graduate certificate in Chinese law from the China University of Political Science and Law in Beijing, as well as an MBA and a Bachelor of Civil Law (LL.B.) from Université Laval.

With 20 years of experience in the transportation industry, her career includes senior leadership positions at VIA Rail, the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), and Genesee & Wyoming, the largest operator of shortline railroads in Canada, the United States, and globally. She has held various management positions in legal and regulatory affairs, risk management, and government and external relations.

Caroline has also worked as a lawyer at several major national law firms specializing in corporate, commercial, and transportation law. She is a certified commercial arbitrator and previously served as Director of Legal Services at the International Air Transport Association. Additionally, she worked at Bombardier Aerospace, a leading aircraft manufacturer, where she negotiated large-scale procurement transactions.

She serves on multiple boards of directors and is actively involved in numerous charitable and community organizations.

Chris Heikkinen is Chief Executive Officer of Thunder Bay Port Authority, which administers the largest export port on the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system by tonnage. Since joining the organization, Chris has held progressively senior roles across finance, communications, business development, and terminal operations, culminating in his appointment as CEO in 2023. 

Drawing on a diverse background in port administration and commercial operations, Chris leads the Authority's efforts to enhance trade, support economic development, and position the Port of Thunder Bay as a key link in North America's transportation and supply chain network. 

Chris is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from Lakehead University. 

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Chris is a mediocre runner and enjoys camping with his young family and spending time outdoors. 

Civil engineer and experienced administrator, Carl Laberge has been Port of Saguenay’s President and CEO since 2015. With over 25 years of engineering, administration and project development experience, his leadership and forward vision are among the strong attributes that have expertly guided the strategic positioning of Saguenay Port Authority in recent years. 

He has developed deep knowledge of the marine sector, in addition to previous implication in various energy-based and industrial construction projects. Prior to joining the Port of Saguenay team, he was successively engaged as engineer and project manager for a major construction engineering firm. 

Carl Laberge is the holder of a Master’s of Engineering degree, as well as a Master’s of Business Administration. An active regional actor, he chaired the Saguenay-Le Fjord Chamber of Commerce and Industry from 2019 to 2021. He is also heavily involved in the marine industry. He has led the Canadian delegation of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) and acted as chairman of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities, as well as member of various governing bodies, including the St. Lawrence Economic Development Council (SODES).  

Doris has worked with numerous clients in various industries to identify broad economic benefits. With over 25 years of marketing and consulting experience at InterVISTAS, she manages the economic impact analysis practice. Doris also works in several different areas including market research, air service development, economic analysis and market intelligence. She has been involved in and has project managed several integrative consulting projects that span across several different practice areas. Doris has a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) in Marketing and Finance from the University of Manitoba. 

David Mennie is the Chief Product and Technology Officer at GSTS, where he leads product strategy, engineering, product management, DevSecOps, and technology innovation for OCIANA, the company’s AI-powered maritime intelligence platform. 

With more than 20 years of experience leading product and technology organizations, David has built AI-driven software solutions spanning supply chains, critical infrastructure, defence & security, and enterprise software. Today, he is focused on helping ports, shipping organizations, and government agencies apply artificial intelligence and advanced data fusion to improve operational efficiency, maritime domain awareness, and decision-making. 

David is passionate about helping organizations turn emerging technologies into practical operational capabilities. He works with ports and maritime stakeholders to apply AI in ways that improve efficiency, safety, and resilience across the marine transportation ecosystem. 

Deputy Commissioner Mes was appointed in May 2024 and is responsible for all Canadian Coast Guard 
programs and assets, including its fleet of ships, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, operations centres, and 
associated systems. He provides strategic leadership and operational direction, establishes program policy, 
and ensures effective delivery aligned with the priorities of the Canadian Coast Guard, the Department of 
National Defence, and the Government of Canada. In this role, he oversees key services such as fleet 
operations, marine navigation, maritime security, safety management, and emergency preparedness and 
response, including search and rescue, environmental response, and risks posed by hazardous vessels in 
Canadian waters.

Deputy Commissioner Mes is an experienced senior executive with more than 24 years of national and 
international experience in national security and public safety. Following a career in teaching, he joined the federal public service in 2002 with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade as a Counter-Terrorism Policy Officer. He later moved to Transport Canada, where he held progressively senior roles, including Director of Marine Security Operations. In 2010, he joined the Canadian Coast Guard as Director of Maritime Security and was appointed Senior Director, Operational Support in 2015.

From 2017 to 2020, he held several Director General positions at Health Canada. He returned to the Canadian Coast Guard in June 2020 as Director General, Fleet and Maritime Services. Deputy Commissioner Mes has built strong relationships with domestic, international, and industry partners. He also brings significant international experience through his work with the International Maritime Organization, the G8, the Organization of American States, various Coast Guard forums, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

Frank Montecalvo is Vice-President of Operations at LOGISTEC. With over 30 years of experience in port operations and logistics, Frank oversees terminal performance, strategic growth initiatives, and operational excellence across Ontario and Atlantic Canada. 

Since joining Logistec in 2016 as Sales & Marketing Manager for Ontario and Western Canada, Frank has played a key role in driving operational performance and business development. In January 2021, he was appointed Vice-President of Operations, where he continues to champion innovation, safety, and sustainability across the company’s marine operations. 

Throughout his career, Frank has been dedicated to advancing efficiency and collaboration across the marine transportation industry. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the competitiveness of the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence region and strengthening the broader marine transportation ecosystem. 

In addition to his corporate role, Frank has been an active contributor to the marine community. He has served on the Marine Club Board since 2008, was elected President in 2021, and currently sits on the Board of the Ontario Marine Council. 

Steve Salmons is President and CEO of Port Windsor (since 2018), Ontario’s third largest port.  He has held several previous leadership roles including General Manager for the City of Windsor, Director of Community Services and Development at Lakeshore, and CEO of the Windsor Public Library.  For several years, Steve was a senior advisor to several Cabinet Ministers in Ontario, including the Minister of Finance. He began his professional career as Manager of Branch Services and Operations for the Royal Bank of Canada.

Steve is a lifelong resident of Windsor, graduating from the University of Windsor with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Business (Labour Relations), and an MBA in Strategic Studies from the Odette School of Business, University of Windsor.  Steve is also a graduate of the Policy Governance Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Professionally, Steve serves on several Boards: Association of Canadian Ports Authorities (ACPA), Chamber of Marine Commerce (CMC), and Chair of the Ontario Marine Council (OMC).

Captain Satinder Singh brings over 26 years of distinguished leadership in the marine industry to his role as Vice President, Marine at the Toronto Port Authority. Recognized for his strategic vision and operational expertise, Captain Singh has a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions that drive efficiency, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration.

Before joining the Toronto Port Authority, Captain Singh served as Vice President of Operations and Harbour Master at Nanaimo Port Authority. He led transformative safety, security, and environmental initiatives while fostering relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, Indigenous communities, and industry partners. He has also held leadership positions with the Department of National Defence and in the private maritime sector, where he managed large-scale operational and fleet management projects.

Captain Singh is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and operational excellence. He has spearheaded projects integrating environmentally friendly vessel classes and advancing digital transformation in port operations. A recognized thought leader, he has chaired and contributed to several national and international maritime committees, including the Association of Canadian Port Authorities and the International Harbour Masters Association.

Captain Singh holds a Master of Maritime Management and a Bachelor of Maritime Studies from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He is also a Certified Port Executive with specialized certifications in marine port and facility security.

Fluent in multiple languages and an avid traveler, Captain Singh values cultural exploration and mentoring future leaders in the maritime sector. At the Toronto Port Authority, he aims to continue building resilient marine operations that enhance the economic and environmental well-being of the Toronto waterfront and beyond.

Douglas Smith, CEO of DP World’s operations in Canada, has nearly 30 years of industry expertise backed by a distinguished career in international trade, shipping, and logistics. Smith began his career with Sealand Service, Inc. and has held key positions at Maersk, APM Terminals, and Global Ports Management, which have taken him to 17 different locations across six countries and three continents. Most recently, he served as Joint President and CEO of Mundra and Tuna Ports at Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone in Mundra, India. 

Adam Tindall-Schlicht is the Americas Sector Lead for Ports, Transportation, and Infrastructure at Ramboll, where he leads strategy and client engagement across the United States and Canada focused on sustainable port development, resilient infrastructure and maritime decarbonization. 

Previously, Adam served as Administrator of the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation within the U.S. Department of Transportation, where he worked to advance the safe and efficient operation of one of the world’s most integrated binational maritime transportation systems. 

Earlier, he served as Director of Port Milwaukee, where he strengthened cross-border trade relationships and championed Great Lakes shipping as a vital link between U.S. and Canadian industries. Across government and private-sector leadership roles, Adam has been a prominent voice on North American supply chains, port modernization and the economic importance of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence corridor. 

Ansis Zeltiņš has a Bachelor's degree from Latvian Maritime Academy in Maritime Transport and a Master's degree in Business Administration from University of Salford (United Kingdom).

Previously, he was the Chairman of the Council of theSJSC “Latvijas dzelzceļš” and Member of the Board of “Rīgas Brīvostas flote” Ltd. He has gained diplomatic experience in the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Latvia to the European Union in Brussels,
working as a Transport Adviser. Prior to that, he was the Chairman of the Board of the subsidiary company “LSC Shipmanagement” Ltd. of JSC “Latvijas kuģniecība” and
managed the JSC “Latvijas Jūras administrācija” (Maritime Administration of Latvia) for more than 9 years.

The CEO of the Freeport of Riga since 2017. Ansis Zeltiņš has been involved in the maritime industry for 20 years now, representing the country at various international maritime  industry forums such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International
Hydrographic Organization (IHO), Member of the Board of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the Head of the Shipping Working Group of the Council of Europe.

Member of the Board of the Baltic Ports Organization (BPO) since 2018. Member of the Board of the Employers' Confederation of Latvia (LDDK) since March 2022, has served as Vice-Chairman of the European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO) since November 2022 and was elected Chairman of ESPO in November 2024.

Ansis Zeltiņš has the qualification of a chief mate on ships of 3000 BT and above.

Corey brings more than 20 years of leadership, engineering, and operations experience to his role as Director of Transportation & Infrastructure. After earning his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s in business, Corey spent nearly a decade in sales for a company that designed software for major manufacturers including Airbus, Tesla, and John Deere. A pilot and aviation enthusiast, he’s proud to have worked since 2017 to deliver innovative lighting solutions for aviation, ports, and other large-area lighting projects, helping to create safer and more efficient environments at many of the world’s most-used airports and terminals. He stepped into his current leadership role in July 2026. 

Devan is an Ontario native who brings extensive project experience and industry relationships to his role on Musco’s Transportation & Infrastructure Team, supporting clients across Canada. He focuses on new lighting installations and retrofit upgrades for airports, roadways, ports, and other large-area applications, helping customers plan systems that deliver safety, reliability, and long-term performance.

Michael Hebb is Vice President of Griffin Engineered Systems and has nearly 20 years of experience working in the Canadian ports and harbours industry, supported by more than 25 years of consultative sales experience. Michael works closely with port authorities, consulting engineers and marine contractors to understand project requirements and help identify practical solutions to complex infrastructure challenges, including the rehabilitation and life extension of pile-supported marine structures. 

With a strong technical understanding of the systems Griffin represents, Michael focuses on the overall application and project requirements, working closely with Griffin’s specialized manufacturing partners to develop the detailed technical solution. Through Griffin Engineered Systems, he represents a range of proven systems for structural rehabilitation, marine fendering, corrosion protection, marine lighting and other specialized port infrastructure applications. 

Charles Huot est un professionnel chevronné du commerce et de la chaîne d’approvisionnement qui compte plus de 15 ans d’expérience en logistique internationale, en transport de marchandises, dans les ports et en commerce mondial. Il occupe actuellement le poste de directeur commercial principal – chaîne d’approvisionnement stratégique chez DP World au Canada, où il se consacre à l’élaboration de solutions logistiques intégrées et au renforcement des liens entre les ports, le transport intérieur et les marchés mondiaux. 

Tout au long de sa carrière, Charles a travaillé dans le secteur de la logistique et du transport, notamment dans des fonctions commerciales et de développement des affaires auprès de DP World, DHL Global Forwarding et Scan Global Logistics. Son expérience couvre le transport maritime et multimodal, les corridors commerciaux, les chaînes d’approvisionnement stratégiques et le développement de la clientèle. 

Chez DP World, Charles s’intéresse particulièrement au développement portuaire et des terminaux, au commerce conteneurisé, à la connectivité intermodale et à la résilience des chaînes d’approvisionnement, en mettant l’accent sur l’accès des exportateurs et importateurs canadiens aux marchés internationaux. 

Charles est titulaire d’un baccalauréat en commerce, concentration gestion, de l’Université Laval et est établi au Québec, au Canada. 

Victoria Venturini is a Principal with DHI Water & Environment’s Marine & Coast team and a Senior Coastal Specialist with more than 15 years of experience supporting transportation-sector projects across ports, rail and aviation in coastal environments. Victoria has led all phases of project delivery, from initial scoping and technical execution through to final handover. Her port experience includes the application of numerical modelling to develop metocean design criteria, assess optimal berth orientation, support terminal throughput simulations and mooring analyses, recommend construction methodologies, and define site-specific data collection programs. Her Canadian and global project experience across industries, enables her to develop tailored solutions that reflect local operating contexts, align with international and regional standards, and address diverse client needs with precision and efficiency.

Francis Ries is a Vancouver-based Principal with Ramboll Canada’s Environment & Health business line.  He is a professional engineer with over 25 years of diverse experience across industrial, institutional, and municipal facilities and operations, including ports and marine, upstream and downstream petroleum, mining and metals, forestry, waste management, and power generation. Francis specializes in assessing the connections between the technical feasibility of projects and technologies and their potential positive and negative impacts on environmental and human health, with a particular focus on air pollutant and GHG emissions.  He has assisted ports and marine clients with landside fleet characterization, emissions inventories, air quality assessments, facility environmental assessments and permitting. 

Rudy Laguna is the Technical Director for the Trelleborg Marine Systems North America. He started his marine fender career with Fentek, Dubai in 2004, later rebranded to Trelleborg Marine & Infrastructure. For the past 22 years Rudy has provided tailored fender solutions from simple to most complex fender design on major ports across a few continents and continuous to enjoy the challenge each unique project brings. He worked with end users, consultants, and constructors, providing technical support to all stages, from conceptual fender design to installation and commissioning.  

Rudy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Western Institute of Technology, Philippines.  

Ratio Structural Engineering (RSE) specializes in supporting contractors and owners in near shore marine and heavy civil projects, with decades of experience designing and constructing marine facilities & bridges in several parts of the world.

Paolo G. P.Eng CEng MICE is a structural marine engineer with 20 years of experience in the industry, with vast knowledge of design and construction of marine terminals in Canada and abroad. As managing partner, he currently leads RSE’s marine engineering team based in British Columbia. RSE is currently involved in consulting and engineering works for over five CPA across Canada.