Our popular public lecture series is back! Engaging speakers are invited to present on a specific topic related to the Port of Vancouver USA. Each season we cover several subjects from the maritime industry to global trade, tourism and more. It’s a great way to learn more about your port and what we do for Vancouver.
Lectures are FREE and open to the public, and are held at the Kiggins Theater, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver. Concessions are available for purchase (the popcorn is excellent!), including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A percentage of food sales will benefit the Fort Vancouver Seafarers Center.
Doors will open to the public at 5:30 p.m., and port commissioners will be available to chat with attendees before the programs begin.
Note that parking is free downtown after 6:00 p.m.
When asked if she would recommend the lectures to others, one attendee last year responded: “Yes! It’s an opportunity to see the great things happening here. You learn to appreciate how everyday lives are affected by trade and all the different work being done at the port.”
Lecture #1:
Discover Treasure in Astoria: the Columbia River Maritime Museum
Capt. Bruce Jones, Executive Director, Columbia River Maritime Museum and U.S. Coast Guard (Ret)
Thursday, March 6, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Capt. Bruce Jones completed his 30-year U.S. Coast Guard career in command of Sector Columbia River in 2014. He subsequently served as a helicopter pilot for the Columbia River Bar Pilots, served on Astoria City Council and also as Astoria’s mayor. He was deputy director of the Columbia River Maritime Museum before becoming the museum’s executive director, where he is overseeing the museum’s $31.5 million campus transformation project. Capt. Jones will share stories from his varied career and discuss the museum’s mission of collecting, preserving, displaying, and interpreting maritime history—with a focus on the Columbia River and Pacific Northwest. The museum boasts 22,000 objects, 35,000+ photos and a 20,000 volume research library. Construction is underway on a new exhibit and education hall to better share the museum’s collection of artifacts and boats that are currently in storage.
Lecture #2:
“Lightning Round: An Update on Port Projects and Activities”
Wednesday, March 19 , 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Hear a comprehensive overview from port department leadership including Alex Strogen, the port’s Chief Commercial Officer (marine and commercial); Mary Mattix, Director of Environmental Services (environmental); Mike Bomar, Chief Economic Strategy Officer (economic development and Terminal 1); and Kent Cash, Chief Operations Officer (terminal operations). Each will provide an update on their work including international trade; environmental activities, economic development and the maritime trades academy; Terminal 1 progress; and a look at the port’s capital program, terminal operations and projects underway.
Reserve Seats for Lecture #2
Lecture #3
“The Fascinating World of Washington State’s Public Ports”
Eric ffitch, Executive Director, Washington Public Ports Association
Thursday, April 3, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Washington state has 75 busy and diverse port districts operating in 33 of 39 counties. Each strives to bring investments and jobs to their communities through the operation of marinas, docks, airports, railroads, incubator spaces, industrial sites and recreational facilities. Eric ffitch will share fascinating facts about our ports, including the fact that ports don’t have to be located on water. Learn the history of why port districts were first created more than 100 years ago. And learn about ports that support the wine industry, handle radioactive materials, operate artisan food centers, move agriculture goods, and handle cruise ships. From apples to auto parts, our ports are unique and interesting!
Reserve Seats for Lecture #3
One of the ways the Port of Vancouver USA fosters community engagement is through our sponsorship and attendance of various community events. In 2024 we are supporting several local groups and events in Vancouver:
Ever been curious about what goes on at the Port of Vancouver USA? Ever wonder how nearly 75,000 Subarus get from ship to land every year? If so, join us for a free port tour. We’re always excited to welcome guests to the port and show our neighbors around. Tour season runs from May through September with several dates and times provided. Click here to learn more about the port’s tours.
Each year, the Port of Vancouver USA produces the “Port Report” video. This annual report looks back at the highlights and challenges of the previous year and gives an update on current and future projects. To view last year’s video, click here.
3103 NW Lower River Road, Vancouver, WA 98660
PHONE360-693-3611 FAX360-735-1565 EMAIL info@portvanusa.com
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