Once a year, leaders from the Mid-Atlantic came together to learn about the challenges and opportunities at Maryland’s ports. It all took place at the Annual State of the Ports & Global Flavor Showcase. Beyond getting the lowdown from port leaders, attendees had the chance to:
- Sample wines and food from around the world at the Global Flavor Showcase
- Learn about key challenges impacting international trade at our breakout sessions
- Network with the influential leaders driving economic growth in our region
- Hear the State of the Ports address directly from Maryland’s Secretary of Transportation
2025 State of the Ports Agenda
4:00pm - Breakout Sessions
Safeguarding the Future: Security and Technology Opportunities & Challenges at Modern Ports
As ports become increasingly digital and interconnected, they face new opportunities and risks. This panel brings together experts in cybersecurity, maritime technology, and port operations to explore how AI, automation, and other emerging technologies are reshaping port security and efficiency. Speakers will discuss how ports can protect critical infrastructure, adapt to evolving threats, and maintain operational excellence.
Featuring:
Tim O’Connor
William Gallagher
Abhishek Motayed
Moderated by:
Tom Regnante
Supply Chain in Motion: Managing Today’s Changing Landscape While Preparing for Tomorrow
Change is the only constant in today’s supply chain. From new tariffs and infrastructure disruptions like the Key Bridge collapse to opportunities such as the Howard Street Tunnel expansion and AI-driven logistics, agility is essential. This panel features industry leaders sharing practical insights on managing uncertainty, ensuring continuity, and helping to position organizations to succeed in Maryland’s evolving port ecosystem.
Featuring:
Andrew Friesema
Tara Niesslein
Kevin Rhee
Moderated by:
Ryan Polakoff
5:15pm - State of the Ports Address
State of the Ports Address: A Fireside Chat with Maryland Transportation Leaders
Maryland is home to two of the largest transportation and trade meccas in the United States: the Port of Baltimore and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Once a year, we are fortunate to welcome port leaders to share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing our ports.
Moderated by:
Eddie Resende
Featuring:
Samantha Biddle
Shannetta R. Griffin
Jonathan Daniels
6:00pm - Global Flavor Showcase & Reception
Prepare to embark on a delectable journey as we present a remarkable selection of international food and beverages from across the world without leaving Baltimore at our global flavor showcase.
Sponsorship Opportunities
To learn about sponsorship, contact Jeremy Rosendale or download our sponsor information packet.
$5,500
- 8 Tickets to the event
- Opportunity to request post-event introductions to attendees
- Recognition during the program
- Pre- and post-event list of attendees (upon request)
- Display table (upon request)
- Premium seating
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Sponsor ribbons for all employees who attend
- Exclusive Sponsor of VIP networking reception
$5,000 – SOLD OUT
- 6 Tickets to the event
- Opportunity to speak at or moderate a breakout session and to help WTCI choose panel speakers
- Pre- and post-event list of attendees (upon request)
- Display table (upon request)
- Premium seating
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Sponsor ribbons for all employees who attend
$3,000
- 6 Tickets to the event
- Pre- and post-event list of attendees (upon request)
- Display table (upon request)
- Premium seating
- Inclusion in relevant earned media pitches
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials (e.g., WTCI website, email marketing messages that go to 5,000+ people and on-site event banners/slides)
- Sponsor ribbons for all employees who attend
$1,500
- 4 Tickets to the event
- Inclusion in relevant earned media pitches
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Sponsor ribbons for all employees who attend
2025 State of the Ports Sponsors
Co-Host
Breakout Sponsors
Signature Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Ecosystem Partners
Production Partner
