AAPA Seaports
AAPA and the Professional Development Board are pleased to announce the latest addition to our esteemed Port Professional Manager (PPM) program – the Echo Cohort. Comprising 20 exceptional port professionals, this cohort marks a significant milestone in AAPA’s commitment to fostering leadership excellence and diversity within the maritime industry.
The PPM Echo Cohort stands out as the most diversified group since the program began in 1995, representing a wide spectrum of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within the port sector. From seasoned executives to emerging leaders, each member brings a unique set of skills and insights that will enrich their collective professional development.
- Alisa Praskovich, Chief, Strategic Projects & Commission Relations – Port of Tacoma, WA
- Angela Harris, Executive Director – Port of Edmonds, WA
- Ashley Barranco, Director of Administration – Port of Beaumont, TX
- Caleb McMahon, Director of Economic Development – Port of Port Angeles, WA
- Chris Hartman, Director of Engineering – Port of Port Angeles, WA
- Christian Clay, Director of Business and Economic Development – Port of Longview, WA
- Eduardo Cuadra, Trade Analyst, Global Trade & Business Development – PortMiami, FL
- Jacob Morales, Chief of Design and Construction – Port of Corpus Christi, TX
- Jose De Jesus, Director of Engineering – Port Tampa Bay, FL
- Kris Koski, Port Engineer – Port of Grays Harbor, WA
- Lawrence Garza, Director of Operations – Port of Beaumont, TX
- LeeAnne Schirato, Deputy Chief of Staff – Port of Seattle, WA
- Mark Price, Director of Marine Terminals – Port of Longview, WA
- Renee Yarmy, Program Director, Maritime Sustainable Development – Port of San Diego, CA
- Roxana Santoyo, Manager International Trade Hub – Seaport Manatee, FL
- Sophie Silvestri, Manager of Business Development & Government Affairs – PASHA
- Soufyane Meftah, Pre-Sales Solution Architect – Wabtec
- Todd Krout, Director of Operations – Port of Vancouver, WA
- Torrey Chambliss, Director, Foreign-Trade Zone and Business Development – Port Tampa Bay, FL
- Valerie Piper, Grant Compliance Administrator – PhilaPort, PA
Over the next two to four years, these PPM candidates will embark on a transformative journey of professional development, networking, and collaboration. Through a blend of coursework, hands-on projects, and peer-to-peer interactions, they will deepen their understanding of port management best practices and emerge as visionary leaders poised to drive positive change in our industry.
The PPM program is highly competitive, and each candidate’s successful admission is a testament to their achievements and potential in the port industry. Congratulations and best wishes to the members of the PPM Echo Cohort. For questions about the PPM program, contact Julie Barelas.
