/ Port of Vancouver USA 2026 Lecture Series kicks off March 18
Free public lectures from Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, Tidewater and The Northwest Seaport Alliance
The Port of Vancouver USA’s popular public lecture series will feature three lectures in March and April. Lectures are free and open to the public, and will be held at the Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA.
Doors open to the public at 5:30 p.m., and port commissioners will be available to chat with attendees before the programs begin.
People interested in attending one or more of the free lectures are encouraged to RSVP online by clicking here.
Lecture Series Details
“From Commodities to Community: How the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association Keeps Maritime Thriving”
Neil Maunu, Executive Director – Pacific Northwest Waterways Association
Wednesday, March 18, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
The Columbia River is our region’s “liquid highway”–what makes it one of North America’s most reliable waterways? Learn about the vital role the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) plays in keeping the Columbia River and our other waterways open, efficient and competitive. Founded in 1934, PNWA has more than 150 members including ports, businesses, labor organizations and other entities, working hand-in-hand with federal agencies and policymakers to ensure our working waterways benefit our region. Neil Maunu, PNWA’s Executive Director, will dive into the successes and challenges of advocating for river maintenance, environmental stewardship, trade and more.
“Reliability by River: Tidewater Barge Lines on the Columbia-Snake River System”
Jennifer Riddle, Corporate Communications & Marketing Manager, PIO – Tidewater
Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Tidewater is the largest inland marine transportation company west of the Mississippi River. Its operating area extends 465 miles from the Port of Astoria, Oregon to the inland Port of Lewiston, Idaho. Discover how this Vancouver-headquartered business moves vital cargo up and down our river system. Tidewater’s Jennifer Riddle will detail the complex and integral work carried out by Tidewater’s tugs, barges, terminals and people.
“Collaboration is Key: Why the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma formed The Northwest Seaport Alliance”
John Wolfe, CEO and Tong Zhu, Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer – The Northwest Seaport Alliance
Wednesday, April 29, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Hear the story behind one of the Pacific Northwest’s most impactful partnerships – The Northwest Seaport Alliance. With two of every five jobs in Washington tied to international trade, the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle created this unique partnership over a decade ago to strengthen our region’s ability to move goods, support jobs and compete in the global economy. The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s CEO, John Wolfe, and Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer, Tong Zhu, will detail the decision to build this partnership between Washington’s two largest container ports and provide insight into how and why Washington excels at trade.
Food and drinks for purchase: Pizza, popcorn, and other concessions will be available for purchase, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Note that parking is free downtown after 6:00 p.m.
