Ports conclude productive, informative and inspiring 112th Annual Convention

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) recently wrapped up the 112th Annual Convention at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado. Over three days, AAPA hosted more than 60 exhibitors, 650 attendees, and 71 ports from the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America.

“America’s seaports have gathered every year since 1912 to learn, grow, energize, and then rally around a vision and compelling message of why everyone should care about ports,” exclaimed Cary Davis, AAPA President and CEO. “Congratulations to all our Lighthouse Awards winners, the PPM Program graduates, the new 2024 Board of Directors , along with the countless speakers, sponsors and attendees on an incredibly successful event.”

AAPA’s Board of Directors were pleased to announce the selection of Paul Matthews, Port of South Louisiana CEO a new at-large member for a two-year term of service in addition to the re-election of the rest of the board.

During AAPA’s annual convention, 27 total 2023 Lighthouse Awards were presented to ports recognizing best practices in the port industry across four disciplines: Communications, Environmental Improvement, Information Technology, and Facilities Engineering. Overall Beacon Awards of Excellence in Communications trophies – the top awards in AAPA’s Lighthouse Awards Program – were awarded to Portos do Paraná (Category 1), Port of Corpus Christi (Category 2), and Port Everglades and Port of Oakland (Category 3-tie). The three categories are based on the size of the port’s public relations, advertising and marketing budget.