Mike Bomar
Port of Vancouver USA

A Wave is Coming

This capstone paper examines the growing workforce and leadership transition challenges facing U.S. port authorities, with a particular focus on the urgent need for comprehensive succession planning as a wave of retirements approaches. Through industry research, a survey of North American ports, and case studies of three port authorities, the paper identifies current gaps in succession planning practices and presents a practical pathway that port leaders can use to develop talent, strengthen organizational resilience, and prepare the next generation of maritime leaders.