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VMA25: MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

VMA25 was the largest International Trade Symposium yet, bringing together more than 600 attendees for three days of conversation, insight, and connection. From the first tee at the Golf Open to the final keynote, the event carried a strong sense of energy and collaboration that reflects the maritime community at its best.

The week opened with the VMA Golf Open, where a rainy morning didn’t slow anyone down. After golf, Shippers/BCOs and guests joined a harbor cruise aboard the Spirit of Norfolk, followed by a lively welcome reception that set the tone for two full days of discussion and networking.

Keynotes and panels explored nearly every corner of global trade and maritime logistics. Peter Friedmann of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, Mark George of Norfolk Southern, Renee Haltom of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Lars Jensen of Vespucci Maritime, and all of our expert panelists shared perspectives that challenged and inspired. Sessions covered bulk trends, supply chain security, tariffs, sustainability, and AI’s growing influence on logistics.

Across 64 speakers, the program delivered real-world insights from port leaders, policymakers, and industry experts. Governor Glenn Youngkin addressed attendees, recognizing that one in five Virginia jobs connects to the maritime industry and reaffirming the Commonwealth’s commitment to its growth.

The Exhibitor Hall was a hub of activity, with 40 exhibitors showcasing new tools, technologies, and solutions shaping the

The Port of Virginia® recognized Walmart as the 2025 Shipper of the Year, honoring its collaboration and commitment to strengthening supply chain efficiency.

Truxell

Assistant Treasurer

STAFF

Senior Vice President ................. Will Fediw

Vice President of Finance

& Administration ....................... Sam Davis

Director of Membership

Development .......................... Kristen Greene

Workforce Development

Director................................... Shayla Prince

Executive Assistant ................... Chanel Bolling

Marketing Manager ................. Jennifer Deason

Event Manager &

Accounting Assistant ............. Jennifer Parham

Membership Services

Manager ........................... Susan Wisniewski

For Questions about the Bulletin or Advertising jdeason@vamaritime.com - 757.628.2667

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VIRGINIA PORT AUTHORITY’S STEPHEN EDWARDS STEPPING DOWN TO PURSUE

A PRIVATE SECTOR ROLE

Stephen A. Edwards, chief executive officer and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority (VPA), has announced that he will step down at the end of 2025 to pursue a new opportunity in the private sector. His decision marks the close of a pivotal chapter for The Port of Virginia®, which has seen significant growth and major strategic milestones during his tenure.

Edwards has led the VPA since January 2021. Over the past four years, the port has completed the majority of its $1.4 billion capital investment program on time and on budget, no small feat given the shifting demands of global trade. Under his leadership, the port increased cargo volumes, revenue, earnings, and man-hours, strengthening Virginia’s position as a competitive global gateway.

Following his departure, Chief Administrative Officer Sarah J. McCoy will assume interim leadership of the VPA. McCoy, a ten-year veteran of the port, has overseen several long-term initiatives and operational improvements. Edwards noted that she is well prepared to guide the organization during the transition and throughout the search for a permanent successor.

As a Platinum Anchor member of the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA), The Port of Virginia has long been an essential partner to the maritime, logistics, and supply chain community. The VMA offers its appreciation for Edwards’ leadership and the cooperative approach he brought to the port’s work with industry stakeholders. His collaboration strengthened Virginia’s maritime ecosystem and advanced shared goals for efficiency, competitiveness, and economic growth.

The VMA looks forward to continuing its strong relationship with McCoy as she steps into her interim leadership role and carries the port forward.

Edwards’ final day will be December 31, 2025. The VMA extends best wishes to Stephen as he begins this next chapter and thanks him for his service to Virginia’s port industries.

DRIVING PROCESS EXCELLENCE:

LESSONS FROM THE VMA MARITIME LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Exploring Excellence Across Industries

As part of the Virginia Maritime Association’s Maritime Leadership Certification Program (MLCP), participants recently embarked on an immersive training day visiting Danville, Virginia’s Hitachi Energy, JTI Leaf Services, and the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) School for Advanced Machining, Ship Repair, and Building. The day offered an illuminating cross-sector look at how process improvement, technology, and workforce development intersect to drive excellence, lessons deeply relevant to the maritime industry’s evolving challenges.

Each visit demonstrated how continuous improvement and Lean Six Sigma principles can be applied to enhance quality, efficiency, and sustainability, key competencies for maritime leaders seeking operational agility and global competitiveness.

Hitachi Energy: Digital Kaizen and Continuous Improvement

At Hitachi Energy, participants discovered how the company integrates Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, and advanced digital tools to create its own version of the Toyota Production System. Rather than replicating TPS outright, Hitachi Energy tailors its methods to the energy sector’s complex, safety-critical environments.

Key takeaways included:

• Kaizen in Action: Every employee is empowered to suggest and implement improvements through structured Kaizen events and cross-functional teamwork. They promote their staff gaining six sigma training and process improvement actions and planning was evident all throughout the plant.

• Technology-Enabled Efficiency: The Lumada IoT platform, developed in collaboration with Toyota, uses AI and real-

time data to accelerate improvement cycles and optimize performance.

• Sustainability Through Lean Thinking: Continuous improvement extends beyond efficiency to include energy management and emissions reduction.

Hitachi Energy’s approach illustrates how traditional Lean practices are evolving through digital innovation, a valuable insight for maritime operations seeking smarter, data-driven efficiency.

JTI Leaf Services: Lean, Six Sigma, and Just-in-Time in Danville

The visit to JTI Leaf Services in Danville, Virginia, highlighted how Lean and Six Sigma principles drive efficiency in material handling and quality management.

Key observations:

• Investing in Efficiency: JTI’s 110,000-square-foot expansion enhanced material handling and storage, improving flow and reducing waste.

• Quality and Consistency: Collaborations with the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research ensure uniformity and precision in production, echoing Six Sigma’s focus on reducing variation.

• Just-in-Time (JIT) Practices: Close coordination with growers enables JTI to minimize inventory, shorten cycle times, and optimize throughput.

• Culture of Continuous Improvement: Local partnerships supporting Lean Six Sigma training reflect JTI’s commitment to process excellence and community engagement.

The visit underscored that Lean and JIT principles can thrive in any industry like maritime logistics, where coordination and timing are everything. JTI showed the class processes that translate into tangible business outcomes: less waste, better quality, and stronger supply chain partnerships.

ATDM School: Building the Workforce for Tomorrow

At the ATDM School for Advanced Machining, Ship Repair, and Building, participants witnessed the intersection of process discipline and workforce development. The school’s mission, rapidly preparing skilled technicians for defense manufacturing and shipbuilding, demonstrates how structured training and precision-based learning sustain continuous improvement.

CHARTING CHANGE IN THE CHESAPEAKE: HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYS SUPPORTING VIRGINIA’S COASTAL RESILIENCE

Across Virginia’s tidal rivers and estuarine sounds, detailed hydrographic mapping is giving scientists and maritime planners a clearer view of how these waterways function and how to strengthen their resilience. Over the past three years, NOAA and Woolpert have collected high-resolution bathymetric data across the Chesapeake Bay watershed, representing a major investment in public safety and environmental stewardship.

The first phase, launched in 2023, covered about 615 square nautical miles of the Potomac, Rappahannock, James, and York Rivers, many not surveyed in more than 50 years. Five vessels equipped with multibeam and side-scan sonar produced highresolution bathymetry, acoustic backscatter, and sea floor imagery for habitat mapping and Electronic Navigation Chart updates. These combined data types were displayed in real time through a customized GIS dashboard that tracked vessels and allowed NOAA and partners to monitor progress and data quality.

The benefits extend beyond navigation. Updated hydrodynamic models now support river-stage predictions, floodplain analysis, and sediment-transport studies. The data have guided oyster reef restoration, habitat management in rivers such as the Hampton and Rappahannock, and preservation efforts at NOAA’s Mallows Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Together, these applications help Virginia prepare for flooding, sea-level rise, and long-term ecosystem health.

In 2024, survey crews mapped Tangier Sound, a shallow, complex system important to commercial fishing and maritime heritage. The resulting 116 square nautical miles of new data improve navigation safety and contribute to global mapping initiatives like Seabed 2030. The information also supports work by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state agencies focused on oyster habitat and underwater archaeological documentation.

As the 2025 field season wraps up, the team is completing hydrographic work in Pocomoke Sound, spanning Virginia and Maryland and linking multiple working waterfronts to the larger Chesapeake. In total, the three projects account for 942

square nautical miles of new data, creating a unified dataset that supports navigation, flood preparedness, restoration, and long-range planning. Each area poses distinct challenges, but viewed together they reveal how interconnected Virginia’s tidal waters are and how consistent data collection improves coastal management.

All bathymetric data collected through these efforts are publicly available through NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information and can be viewed in NOAA’s Bathymetric Data Viewer. This open-data model ensures broad value, supporting researchers, agencies, and coastal planners. The principle of “map once, use many times” is fully realized, strengthening NOAA’s mission to provide high-quality geospatial data through strong industry partnerships.

As the maritime community reflects on this year’s Navigation Summit, these surveys demonstrate how hydrographic science underpins coastal resilience. Accurate, accessible data help decision-makers and mariners prepare for changing conditions, ensuring the Chesapeake Bay remains safe for navigation and ecologically strong for generations.

Contributor: Ryan Hawsey

Hydrographic Surveyor

(IHO/FIG Category A) Business Development, Maritime Solutions eTrac, a Woolpert Company

MLCP Class of 2026

Adding extra incentive to visit our exhibitors, VMA25 Passport Adventure, sponsored by Carnival Cruise Line, encouraged attendees to visit exhibitors and connect throughout the hall. Prizes included a Hilton Norfolk package and the grand prize Carnival Cruise for two. Congratulations to our grand prize winner, Chrissy Guerra of ArcBest! Congratulations to Carissa Say of Safran, winner of the Hilton Norfolk package.

Meaningful networking filled every part of the week with conversations that continued long after the sessions ended. The Maritime Mixer brought people together in the way only this industry can. The 105th Annual Maritime Banquet closed the conference with celebration and purpose. Guests viewed two new videos, Virginia’s Maritime Workforce: An Ocean of Opportunity and Wider, Deeper, Safer®: The 55-Foot Channel Project, and honored exceptional leaders, including the Distinguished Service award honoree George Brown (retired from CP&O), Port Champion awards to CAPT Peggy Britton, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Virginia, and W. Sheppard “Shep” Miller III, Virginia Secretary of Transportation.

Clifton Styles, Jr. was remembered with a heartfelt tribute video and honored posthumously with the newly established Clifton Styles, Jr. Beacon Award. His family accepted the award on his behalf, celebrating his lasting impact and the integrity, teamwork, and spirit he brought to the maritime community.

VMA ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS CLIFTON STYLES JR. BEACON AWARD

Clifton Styles Jr. was a beacon to everyone he met. His life was guided by purpose, rooted in family, strengthened by hard work, shaped by integrity, and defined by a steady commitment to excellence. At the 105th Annual Maritime Banquet, the Virginia Maritime Association was honored to posthumously award Cliff the inaugural Beacon Award and to name this award in his memory, recognizing those who guide others through integrity, teamwork, and spirit.

VMA is now accepting nominations for the Clifton Styles Jr. Beacon Award. This recognition celebrates individuals within our member organizations who bring steady dedication to their work and strengthen the people and industries around them, often without seeking attention.

Nominations are open to individuals affiliated with any VMA

member or member company. You may nominate someone within your own organization or from another member company. Submissions should include the nominee’s title, a brief job description, and a short explanation of why their actions stand out and reflect VMA’s mission to promote, protect, and facilitate commerce through Virginia’s ports.

The nomination guidelines and submission form are available on our website. Submissions are due February 25. Let’s recognize those serving daily as beacons of excellence for others, casting a positive light on Virginia’s maritime industries.

Recipient(s) will be announced at the VMA’s Maritime Breakfast Briefing on March 25.

Visit VAmaritime.com/BeaconAward for full details and to submit a nomination.

Clifton Styles, Jr.

L-R: David White, Judy Barrett, George Brown, and Lang Williams

L-R: David White, Judy Barrett, Shep Miller, and Lang Williams

L-R: David White, Judy Barrett, Daquan, Pamela, & Darell Styles, and Lang Williams

Chrissy Guerra

MLCP CONT.

The ATDM model reflects a powerful truth: process improvement starts with people. A well-trained, engaged workforce forms the foundation for innovation and operational excellence.

Bringing It Home: Lessons for Maritime Leadership

These visits reinforced that process improvement is not confined to factories; it’s a leadership mindset.

From energy systems to leaf processing to advanced ship repair, the core lessons remain the same:

1. Continuous Improvement is Cultural – Empowering every employee to improve their work builds resilience and innovation.

2. Data and Technology Amplify Efficiency – Digital tools enable faster learning cycles and more precise process control.

3. Quality and Efficiency Go Hand in Hand – Whether producing energy transformers or maintaining ships, reducing variation and waste strengthens both performance and sustainability.

4. Workforce Development is Key – Sustainable improvement depends on trained, adaptive people who understand and apply Lean thinking.

Conclusion: Leadership Through Improvement

The VMA Maritime Leadership Certification Program’s Danville visit showcased how different industries pursue excellence through process improvement. From Hitachi Energy’s digital Kaizen systems to JTI’s Lean operations and ATDM’s precision workforce training, the message was clear: Continuous improvement isn’t just a process, it’s a mindset. By bringing these lessons back to Virginia’s maritime community, program participants strengthen the region’s ability to lead with innovation, efficiency, and resilience. It’s a philosophy of leadership: to see problems as opportunities, data as insight, and people as the drivers of change. On Instagram, the currency is attention. On LinkedIn, it is credibility. In supply chains, the true currency has always been trust. A bill of lading is a handshake. A rate confirmation is a promise. Every shipment says, “I trust you to hold up your end.” Break that trust, and you lose not just a transaction, but a place in the network. Build it consistently, and your influence grows across regions, modes, and industries. Learn more about VMA’s MLCP at VAmaritime.com/MCLP.

Contributor: Vanessa Marie Lasko, MBA

MLCP Class of 2026

Senior Financial Analyst and Executive Assistant to the CFO

ZIM Integrated Shipping

COLONNA’S SHIPYARD ANNOUNCES $79 MILLION DRYDOCK INVESTMENT

Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., the oldest continuously operating family-owned shipyard in the United States, is expanding with the acquisition of a fourth drydock. This $79 million investment boosts the company’s capacity to support commercial and government vessels and strengthens Norfolk’s working waterfront, sustaining good-paying jobs, creating new opportunities, and keeping the city at the forefront of ship repair and innovation.

Drydock #4 is expected to have a lifting capacity of about 25,000 tons, allowing Colonna’s to handle larger and more complex projects. Governor Glenn Youngkin called the investment a win for national defense and commercial maritime operations, noting that it reinforces Virginia’s position as a leading East Coast hub for ship repair and shipbuilding.

Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III highlighted the advantages of growing in the Commonwealth, including proximity to the world’s largest naval installation, strong port infrastructure, and a skilled maritime workforce.

Colonna’s Chairman and CEO Randall Crutchfield said the new drydock reflects the company’s commitment to quality service and long-term growth. He added that the expansion also supports Colonna’s employees and the industrial waterfront that has been central to the company’s success for more than 145 years.

The drydock is expected to be delivered in the first half of 2028. Over the past decade, Colonna’s has invested more than $150 million to expand and modernize its facilities.

Virginia Maritime Association is proud to have Colonna’s Shipyard as a Platinum Anchor member, recognizing its longstanding leadership in Virginia’s maritime and supply chain economy

VIRGINIA MARITIME ASSOCIATION HOSTS THE 20TH ANNUAL VIRGINIA NAVIGATIONAL SUMMIT

The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) welcomed maritime, government, and industry leaders to the 20th Annual Virginia Navigational Summit on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club. The Virginia Navigational Summit, hosted by the VMA, brings together the Virginia Port Authority, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Virginia Pilots Association, and key stakeholders to coordinate navigation projects, secure funding, and align policy and operational needs that keep commerce moving. The Summit continues to serve as the Commonwealth’s key forum for aligning navigational priorities, securing resources, and advancing the shared mission of achieving unrestricted navigation for the Port of Hampton Roads.

VMA President Lang Williams, Executive Vice President and Principal at Colliers, opened the program with reflections on how far the region has come since the first Summit in 2006. He spoke to VMA’s 105-year commitment to strengthening Virginia’s competitive position and noted the progress on channel improvements that are positioning the Port as a major mid-Atlantic hub capable of handling the world’s largest vessels.

Attendees viewed the “Wider Deeper Safer®” video, which highlighted two decades of navigational planning to dredge to 55 ft. Williams emphasized that while the early Summits drew just over 40 maritime and government leaders, the work that began then remains central today. Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Funkhouser, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District and Stephen Edwards, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority shared updates on construction milestones, upcoming planning phases, and the close Corps–VPA partnership driving these major projects forward.

A detailed briefing on Priority Projects followed, led by USACE project managers Stephen Powell and Victor Roberts. They provided updates on Norfolk Harbor improvements, maintenance dredging, the Craney Island Eastward Expansion, and Southern Branch Navigation Improvements.

Capt. Whiting Chisman, President of the Virginia Pilot Association, presented the “Wider is Safer” review, outlining operational lessons learned and what lies ahead as larger vessels continue calling the Port.

CAPT Peggy Britton of USCG Sector Virginia and Bill Burket of The Port of Virginia followed with insights from recent mid-Atlantic casualties and tabletop exercises, underscoring the importance of coordination, safety, and readiness.

The industry panel, “Navigation in Support of a Nation,” brought together Jared Chalk, Chief Business Development Officer at the Hampton Roads Alliance; Randall Crutchfield, Chairman and CEO of Colonna’s Shipyard; and Fred Pasquine, President and CEO of Fairlead. Moderated by Will Fediw, the discussion explored future demands, modernization, how industry can better align its voice, and the importance of strengthening Virginia’s role as a strategic commercial and military gateway.

The program concluded with a forward-looking presentation by Keith Lockwood, Water Resources Division Chief at USACE, who outlined the next generation of navigational priorities and what they mean for long-term planning.

David White closed the Summit by recognizing the partners, stakeholders, and sponsors whose work keeps Virginia at the forefront of maritime infrastructure.

Thank you to our sponsors supporting VMA’s mission. Our Lunch sponsor was Host Agency, Priority Projects sponsors were McLean Contracting Company/Weanack Land, and The Port of Virginia. Coffee sponsors were Norfolk Dredging Company and Virginia Pilot Association and the Break sponsor was LS GreenLink USA, Inc.

Photo: AdobeStock

L-R CAPT Peggy Britton & Bill Burket

L-R Randall Crutchfield, Jared Chalk, Fred Pasquine, and Will Fediw

VMA CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT: SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

The Virginia Maritime Association’s (VMA) Southwest Chapter met on November 12, 2025, in partnership with the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) and Dock to Door.

We had a fantastic turnout with 20+ people in attendance. A special shout-out to VMA member Keith Lewis from Unique Industries who made the journey all the way from the Southern Chapter and the Danville location. Your dedication is truly appreciated! I also want to extend a big thank you to the Port of Virginia’s Lauren Foley for attending and to Mike Downy from the VEDP for being there.

The tour of the VT Smart Road was an absolute highlight. We had the opportunity to walk across the impressive 2,000ft bridge and see where they create various weather conditions for vehicle testing. The inside of the bridge was particularly cool, adding an extra layer of excitement to our visit! It was absolutely fascinating to witness this level of innovation up close. We also observed

testing on rural roads, gravel paths, and mountainous terrain, which was quite enlightening.

Kristen shared an excellent video from VMA showcasing the maritime and supply chain industry “Across Virginia” and also highlighted the success of VMA25. She encouraged everyone to save the date for VMA26 which will be held on October 13-15, 2026, in Norfolk, VA. We had productive discussions about our meeting frequency, and the consensus seemed to be that meeting four times a year is the right fit for us. In December, Kristen and I will begin working on our 2026 chapter meeting dates.

A huge thank you to Carl Mitchell with Dock to Door and VTTI for graciously hosting our Q4 meeting for the Southwest Chapter. Your hospitality made this event possible and successful.

VMA has established five regional Chapters across the Commonwealth, Central, Northern, Southern, Southwest, and Valley Logistics, to strengthen its presence and advocacy efforts throughout the state. These Chapters serve as a voice within their regions and work in partnership with local organizations to support maritime and supply chain initiatives. Review other Chapter Spotlights in the August issue the VMA’s Maritime Bulletin.

All VMA members are encouraged to participate in a regional Chapter. Visit VAmaritime.com/ChapterEvents to register for an upcoming meeting.

Contributor: Cameron Peel

VMA Southwest Chapter Chair President and CCO Camrett Logistics

VMA Executive Director David White announced a partnership with the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore to support local families during the shutdown. Every day, federal employees across multiple agencies perform work required to protect and facilitate maritime commerce. They are part of our maritime community. With the VMA’s $10,000 pledge and your donations, over 30,000 meals have been provided. Virginia’s Maritime Community Stands Together. The drive has been extended to support families throughout the holiday season. Scan the QR below to donate.

The Virginia Maritime Association extends sincere thanks to our Host Sponsor, The Port of Virginia, our sponsors, exhibitors, planning committee, attendees, and staff for making VMA25 unforgettable.

VMA25 proved why this is the conference to attend for anyone in maritime, shipping, logistics, or trade. Mark your calendar for VMA26: October 13–15, 2026, in Norfolk, where the conversations, connections, and momentum will continue to move the industry forward. Learn more at VMAsymposium.com.

Submissions for the Virginia Maritime Bulletin

Submissions: Contact Jennifer Deason, jdeason@vamaritime.com

The Maritime Bulletin is published quarterly in both digital and print formats. It highlights member voices through timely articles, insights, and perspectives that reflect the depth of Virginia’s maritime community. News stories from the latest issue are available on the VMA website, where you can also explore industry updates, thought leadership, and association activities shaping commerce across the Commonwealth.

We invite VMA members to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be 300 to 600 words, educational in nature, and relevant to the general membership or specific groups within the Association. High-resolution images or infographics are encouraged, and all sources must be credited. Submissions should focus on expertise and industry knowledge rather than promoting individual businesses. Thank you to our members who contributed to this issue. Submission deadline for the February issue is 01/31/26. For submission guidelines or to discuss ideas, please contact Jennifer Deason.

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS:

HOW THE MARITIME COMMUNITY CAN EMPOWER ODU INTERNS THROUGH THE MONARCH PAW

At Old Dominion University, internships are more than classroom extensions. They are students’ first steps into Virginia’s workforce. For those entering maritime, logistics, and the skilled trades, being prepared means having the right gear as well as the right résumé.

To help students start strong, the Monarch Internship and CoOp Office created the Professional Attire Wardrobe (PAW), a campus resource that provides free professional and workready clothing. Located in 1007 Webb Center and open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the PAW has already supported hundreds of students through partnerships with employers and community donors.

Dr. Barbara Blake, Executive Director of the office, noted that Virginia’s maritime community has been essential to this effort. “VMA members don’t just open doors for ODU students. They walk beside them,” she said. Their involvement helps students

arrive confident, professional, and ready to contribute on day one.

Every ODU intern can receive a free ODU-branded polo in sizes XS through 2XL, with extended sizes available. More than 75 percent of the PAW’s inventory is brand new thanks to grants, employers, and alumni.

As maritime employers continue to expand internship opportunities in shipyards, ports, and logistics facilities, the need now includes safety gear such as hard hats, steel-toed boots, reflective gear, gloves, and ear protection. These items can be costly for students just starting out.

Maritime employers can support ODU interns by donating new or gently used professional attire and essential work gear. Companies can also sponsor branded polos or safety apparel, host clothing or gear drives, or partner directly with the Monarch Internship and Co-Op Office to offer paid internships that strengthen Virginia’s maritime workforce pipeline.

To coordinate donations or a drive, call 757-683-JOBS or email internship@odu.edu.

With the continued generosity of Virginia Maritime Association members, ODU students can step into a boardroom or a shipyard confident, prepared, and equipped to succeed.

Contributor: Dr. Barbara Blake

Executive Director Internships & Co-Ops Old Dominion University

Photo: Koegelenberg/AdobeStock

2025 VIRGINIA GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS

On November 4, 2025, Virginians elected Abigail Spanberger as their next governor, with Ghazala Hashmi winning the race for lieutenant governor and Jay Jones becoming the new attorney general. House Democrats also expanded their majority, marking a decisive shift in the state’s political landscape.

The Virginia Maritime Association welcomes the newly elected Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and members of the House of Delegates. As the Voice of Port Industries, VMA will continue working with state, federal, and local leaders on issues that affect businesses connected to Virginia’s ports.

Governor

Abigail Spanberger (D) was elected Virginia’s 75th governor. When she is inaugurated at noon on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in Richmond, she will become the Commonwealth’s first woman governor.

Spanberger succeeds Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin, who was unable to run for reelection. The Constitution of Virginia prohibits governors from serving consecutive terms.

Lieutenant Governor

State Senator Ghazala Hashmi (D-Chesterfield County) is the new lieutenant governor. Hashmi is the first Muslim woman to win statewide office in the United States.

Hashmi’s victory triggers a special election for her Senate seat. And if the past is prologue, the special election could be held in early January before the General Assembly convenes on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

Attorney General

Jay Jones (D) is Virginia’s next attorney general.

Former Delegate Jones won the Democratic nomination for Attorney General in a June primary. He previously served two terms in the House of Delegates, representing his hometown of Norfolk, and held the seat his father once held. He becomes Virginia’s first Black Attorney General.

House of Delegates: All 100 seats of the House of Delegates were on the ballot. After the election, Democrats control 64 seats in the Virginia House of Delegates. Delegates serve two-year terms, while Senators serve four-year terms and are not on the ballot until 2027. Currently Democrats control the Senate (21-19), but as noted above, a special election for Senator Hashmi’s seat is forthcoming.

We look forward to working with the following newly elected Representatives and continuing our relationship with the re-elected members.

House District 22, Part of Prince William County

Elizabeth Guzman (D)

House District 30, Parts of Fauquier and Loudoun Counties

John McAuliff (D)

House District 41, Parts of Montgomery and Roanoke Counties

Lily Franklin (D).

House District 57, Parts of Goochland and Henrico Counties

May Nivar (D)

House District 64, Part of Stafford County

Stacy Carroll (D)

House District 66, Parts of Spotsylvania and Caroline Counties

Nicole Cole (D)

House District 69, Part of the City of Newport News, and Parts of York, James City, and Gloucester Counties

Mark Downey (D)

House District 71, City of Williamsburg, Parts of New Kent and James City Counties

Jessica Anderson (D)

House District 73, part of Chesterfield County

Leslie Mehta (D)

House District 75, City of Hopewell, parts of Chesterfield County and Prince George County

Lindsey Dougherty (D)

House District 82, City of Petersburg, Surry County, parts of Dinwiddie and Prince George Counties

Kimberly Pope Adams (D)

House District 86, City of Poquoson, Parts of City of Hampton and York County

Virgil Thornton, Sr. (D)

House District 89, Parts of the cities of Chesapeake and Suffolk

Karen “Kacey” Carnegie (D)

VMA COMMITTEE UPDATES

9/4 Warehousing & Distribution Center CBP officers outlined FTZ and bonded warehouse application processes, including mileage limits for inland FTZs. The group also discussed reviving the LogistXGames for spring 2026, with a planning subcommittee led by Shayla Prince. Standing updates from the Virginia Port Authority, VEDP, and Colliers covered current projects, initiatives, and regional real estate trends. They also received a briefing on the possible return of the Warehouse Workers Protection Act in 2026 and were asked to review and provide feedback.

9/9 Port Security Shayla Prince reported on VMA’s workforce efforts, highlighting work to connect recent training graduates with industry openings. The U.S. Coast Guard briefed the group on port security operations, grants, upcoming subcommittees, and military outload activity, followed by a cybersecurity update on new regulations, federal coordination, recent incidents, and available resources. Discussion covered coordination with the Harbor Safety and Area Maritime Security Committees and a request to address AI-related security issues at a future meeting. The group also began considering 2026 legislative items, including expanded drone protections and security needs tied to Wallops Island.

9/11 Inland Transportation The committee received an update on VMA’s workforce development efforts, including plans to hold quarterly hiring events beginning in October. Members also heard a presentation on Foreign Trade Zones and Bonded Warehouses, followed by an update from Norfolk Southern on its pending merger with Union Pacific and other company developments. The meeting closed with a reminder to share priorities and ideas ahead of the upcoming legislative session in January.

9/17 Terminal Operators Kristen Greene outlined the new VMA membership structure, upcoming renewal dates, and encouraged inviting additional terminal operators to participate. The U.S. Coast Guard shared updates on Facility Security Plans and cybersecurity requirements, including mandatory incident reporting, new training expectations, and the upcoming need for designated Cybersecurity Officers. The discussion highlighted emerging cybersecurity threats such as generative AI, evolving social engineering tactics, and persistent issues with default passwords. Will Fediw also noted the recent drone trespassing law and invited feedback on future legislative or regulatory needs.

10/9 Supply Chain Technology & Innovation Members shared positive feedback on the recent VMA Breakfast Briefing, particularly the discussion on AI. The group reviewed two industry papers on AI applications and considered how these insights could support future committee work. They also explored potential follow-up webinars and articles focused on practical use cases tailored to the maritime and supply chain audience. The goal is to introduce key concepts through written pieces and then build deeper conversations through webinars.

11/5 Communications & Outreach VMA25 was reported as the most successful annual conference to date. The committee also reviewed a range of federal and state updates, including election outcomes and agency impacts. Members discussed engaging newly elected delegates, preparing for Maritime Day 2026, and monitoring uncertain state revenue impacts following the shutdown. Additional items included potential legislation on U.S.-flag vessels, rail, warehousing, coal, and environmental issues as the VMA begins gathering input for its 2026 Legislative Agenda.

11/5 Membership Progress on June and September renewals were reviewed and discussed next steps for improving membership engagement, including development of a membership portal. Members revisited ongoing initiatives such as the Road to 500. The discussion also covered strengthening retention efforts, identifying prospects at events, and promoting referral opportunities. The group is considering forming a subcommittee to advance the Membership Ambassador Program.

11/6 Towing and Barge Operators Recent bridge and navigation issues were covered , including short-notice repairs at Great Bridge and the value of the fourth opening for reducing congestion. North Landing Bridge is open, though members emphasized the need for clearer communication and planning. Information was shared about a new safety bulletin being issued by the Coast Guard in the vicinity of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The U.S. Coast Guard also reviewed current bridge deviation procedures, including Great Bridge’s even-hour openings and the Coleman Bridge’s two-hour notice requirement.

11/7 Ship Operators & Agents Alicia Schuler from NOAA outlined current North Atlantic Right Whale speed regulations, followed by an update on the status of the proposed rule. The group received updates on USCG safety fairways, NOAA’s plans for charting subsea cables tied to offshore wind development, and upcoming telecom cable projects that may increase anchoring risks. Members also discussed offshore wind vessel movements, BOEM’s Central Atlantic Lease Area “2” process, and a recent petition seeking new cruise ship regulations. They reviewed postelection impacts and requested input for next year’s Legislative Agenda.

11/13 Offshore Wind An overview of offshore wind milestones along the East Coast was shared, along with a regional scorecard showing local company involvement in the CVOW project. The group also recognized Will Fediw’s reappointment to the Virginia Offshore Wind Development Authority and thanked Vance for his years of leadership as he moves into retirement. Dominion Energy provided a CVOW project update and noted additional offshore wind projects expected off Virginia’s coast in the early and late 2030s. Presentations were also given by Standard Calibration and Collins Engineers.

ASSOCIATION IN ACTION

Simply stated, active VMA members are Better Connected, Better Informed, and Better Represented. This segment of the Bulletin aims to provide insights into some of the ways in which the interests of VMA members were Better Represented during the previous month.

The first two weeks of October were largely consumed by final preparations and execution of VMA’s annual events: the annual Maritime Golf Outing, VMA25 International Trade Symposium, and 105th Annual Maritime Banquet; as well as numerous events affiliated organizations held in conjunction with the VMA events.

October also saw a flurry of activity in the run-up to the November elections for Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General and all 100 seats in the House of Delegates. It was a busy period for political events providing VMA the opportunity to strengthen relationships with candidates and elected leaders on both sides of the aisle. This included quality time spent with Republican and Democratic leadership from the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates.

Increasing VMA’s reach on workforce development included participation in a meeting of the Tidewater Educational Consortium to collaborate with K-12 administrators about opportunities to build awareness among K-12 students on career pathways in our industry. VMA also coordinated the participation of member companies in the Chesapeake Works Worlds of Work (WOW) Career Expo, which offered students hands-on experiences and exposure to the maritime and supply chain industries.

VMA was invited as a partner of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to participate in the Trade Pulse: Global

Challenges, Strategic Solutions hosted in Roanoke. In addition to connecting and showcasing VMA’s Southwest Chapter with VEDP International Trade clients and other strategic partners, VMA spoke about the opportunity for industry businesses to have their voices heard through membership in VMA and the regional chapters.

For many months VMA has participated in the development of the Hampton Roads Playbook, which was launched on October 29 by the Hampton Roads Alliance. The Playbook is a bold regional economic development strategy focused on leveraging the area’s strengths in Defense, Energy, Aerospace, and Logistics (DEAL) to drive long-term growth and competitiveness. It outlines eight transformative projects designed to mobilize regional assets, align public-private partnerships, and position Hampton Roads as a national leader in industrial innovation and strategic production.