2024 Highlights

Guillermina del Pino

Head of Project Logistics Americas

Siemens Energy Inc

Guillermina del Pino is a global logistics leader, with 24 years of experience in the field. She is responsible for Siemens Energy Project Logistics Americas, working to drive success both on planning and project execution.
  
Guillermina has lived in Argentina, Spain, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, currently resides in the US, and has seen firsthand how strong partnerships, diversity and teamwork leads not only to greater results and people engagement, but also increases the sense of belonging within organizations. 
Guillermina enjoys hiking, crafting, and traveling.

 

Victoria Malbrough

Process Specialist and Compliance Leader

Shell Oil and Trading

Victoria Malbrough is an accomplished process specialist with a unique background in regulatory compliance, business development, and human resources. Currently working at Shell Oil and Trading, Victoria serves as a subject matter expert in regulatory operations, helping to streamline processes, support the implementation of emerging regulations, and create more efficient ways of working. She thrives on problem-solving and is dedicated to optimizing business practices in a constantly evolving industry. Her role includes supporting low-carbon fuels (LCF) operations and contributing to the growth of this dynamic sector by collaborating with commercial teams and regulatory experts. This experience provides a solid foundation for navigating the complexities and uncertainties faced in today’s business landscape.
 
With a deep background in talent management, human resources, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Victoria brings a people-focused approach to her work. She has a proven track record of leading cultural transformation efforts, coaching senior leadership teams on resolving complex HR issues, and launching initiatives that improve team morale and inclusivity. Her expertise in fostering healthy, cohesive workplaces makes her a strong advocate for women in the maritime and energy sectors.

Victoria is passionate about empowering women to find their voices and thrive in professional environments, no matter how uncertain the times. She has hosted several women empowerment events and continues to champion DEI efforts, believing that diverse voices are key to fostering innovation and growth.”

 

Gretchen Sheirr

President of Business Operations

Houston Rockets

Lupita M. Almuhana

Founder and CEO

Stressie

Lupita M. Almuhana is the founder and CEO of Stressie, a corporate wellness platform that delivers personalized, psychology-backed solutions for employee wellbeing. With over two decades of experience in corporate wellness solutions, retreats, community interventions, and the industrial and logistics sectors, she deeply understands high-stress environments.

Her work includes collaborations with organizations like Kaiser, Apple, and the Golden State Warriors and extensive research on stress and human behavior.

Lupita now helps companies scale stress management solutions and offers talks on Employee Wellbeing, Burnout, and Resilience in the workplace.

Kattya & Co. and Stressie Inc. have partnered to revolutionize how the industrial sector manages wellbeing, focusing on the often-overlooked logistics industry. In a world increasingly built on technology, we must not forget the essential jobs that keep it moving. Together, we create a unique, human-centered wellness approach enabled by technology, bringing wellness directly into the hands of those in high-stress environments. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, connection-boosting workshops, or micro wellness solutions through our app, we have you covered. Our comprehensive approach ensures that employees have access to the tools and support they need to thrive, fostering a culture of health and resilience that empowers both individuals and organizations.

Taylor Dickerson

Vice President of Project Management

Kirby Corporation

Karsten Behrens

Managing Director

SAL Engineering GmbH

Dipl.-Ing. Karsten Behrens, managing director of SAL Engineering, the engineering entity within the Harren-group, a family-run shipowner group being specialized in heavy lift transport, maritime engineering and ship management.

With a background in the development of lifting appliances and over 17 years of experience in managing heavy lift and offshore installation projects, Behrens works at the interface between sales, development and realization in close cooperation with vessel crews, operators, clients and business partners.

Paul Baumer

Deputy Director for Infrastructure Development (Acting), Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy

U.S. Department of Transportation

Paul Baumer serves as the Acting Deputy Director for Infrastructure in the Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy in the Office of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy.  He is responsible for implementing National Freight Policy, developing the National Multimodal Freight Network and National Freight Strategic Plan, and advising on DOT leadership on freight infrastructure programs.  He previously served as the program manager for the INFRA, Mega, and Rural discretionary grant programs that collectively awarded $7.8 billion in federal funding to 165 infrastructure projects across the country. 

Prior to joining U.S. DOT in 2010, Mr. Baumer worked for the Economic Directorate of the Census Bureau and in the Office of Financial Services Industries in the International Trade Administration.  He has a BA in International Affairs and an MA in International Trade and Investment Policy from The George Washington University. 
 

Marco Poisler

Adjunct Professor, University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering

COO – Global Energy & Capital Projects, UTC Overseas, Inc.

Marco Poisler, a key figure in global logistics, serves on UTC's Global Executive Management Team and Board of Directors. Born in Jersey City, he studied economics at Georgetown University and earned a Master's in Transportation from SUNY Maritime. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, with working knowledge of Ukrainian, Mr. Poisler has been instrumental in establishing strategic Global Energy & Capital Project offices worldwide.

As an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston's Cullen Engineering Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Program, Marco teaches "Project Logistics" developed by Margaret Kidd. He is currently pursuing an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at UH Bauer, focusing on the intersection of AI and logistics under the guidance of Dr. Meng Li, founder of the Human-Centered AI Institute. This cutting-edge research complements his extensive industry experience, bridging theoretical advancements with practical applications in global supply chains.

Mr. Poisler’s community involvement includes serving on the Houston Maritime Education Center board and various trade associations. He co-authored the textbook "Project Logistics: The Universal Transportation Course."

With a strong background in economics, transportation, global logistics, and insights into emerging technologies, Mr. Poisler continues to make significant contributions to UTC Overseas and the industry. His leadership, combined with his commitment to education, innovative research, and community involvement, positions him as a key figure in shaping the future of global transportation and logistics.

Dennis M. Mottola

Project Logistics Consultant

Mottola Global Logistics LLC

Dennis is the owner and lead Project Logistics Consultant of Mottola Global Logistics LLC which provides customized supply chain/logistics related assessment and solutions support services that assist client shippers, LSPs, or other related entities in being the best at what they do. His career in Supply Chain and Global Logistics leadership spans experience in both shipper logistics management and as a provider of logistics services. He was most recently employed full-time by Bechtel Corporation where he performed a variety of roles and responsibilities over his twenty-one years with the company including corporate global leadership of the Logistics, Expediting, and Supplier Quality functions.

Dennis earned a Business Logistics degree from Penn State University, in addition to completing various university executive programs and professional certifications over his career. He participates in several Supply Chain and Logistics industry organizations and thought leadership activities including ECMC, Breakbulk Americas, HLPFI, The Journal of Commerce, and serves on the advisory boards for HMAA, the University of Houston, Lone Star College, and Houston Community College supply chain/logistics programs.

 

Jack Hedge

Vice President, Commercial and External Affairs

Pasha Stevedoring & Terminals

Jack Hedge is Vice President of Commercial & External Affairs for the Pasha Group, a diversified shipping and maritime services company based in the San Francisco Bay area.

Prior to joining Pasha in March of 2024, he was VP of Project Development for BayoTech, Inc., a developer of modular, distributed reactors to produce hydrogen, where he led the development of local hydrogen production hubs across North America.

From 2019-2022, Jack was Executive Director and President of the Utah Inland Port Authority, a statewide intermodal logistics agency dedicated to optimizing cargo and goods movement to and through the Western U.S. and the West Coast gateways.  In so doing, UIPA addressed solutions to bottlenecks, congestion and other issues impacting the nation’s supply chains.

Jack held the position of Director – Cargo & Industrial Real Estate at the Port of Los Angele from 2012 to 2019 and spent 6 years in a similar role at the Port of Tacoma in Washington.

Jack holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration (International Marketing) from Texas A&M University.
 

Cheryl Fee

Trainer

Luke Mace

Senior Vice President

GEODIS Project Logistics

Luke has been with GEODIS for over 14 years, spending the last seven years in his current capacity of Global Senior Vice President for Project Logistics. Starting his logistics career in his home country of Australia more than 25 years ago, Luke then moved to Singapore where he joined GEODIS and took the role of Director for South-East Asia.

After five years in the region, including serving as the Managing Director of GEODIS Indonesia, Luke and his wife moved to Houston in 2014 where he is still based today. Luke has a comprehensive understanding of the industry and is passionate about exploring different cultures and systems and their connection to logistics.

In his role as SVP, Luke leads a team of more than 600 full time staff, located in 36 countries. He is also a member of the GEODIS Freight Forwarding Board
 

Henrik Hansen

General Manager

AAL Shipping (AAL) Americas

Henrik is responsible for the strategic development of AAL Americas, overseeing the premium multipurpose project heavy lift carrier’s operations and commercial activity across the continent, and managing its busy schedule of regular monthly cargo sailings into and out of the region.

Henrik began his shipping career in 1984 In Denmark and progressed through the commercial and chartering ranks of several well-known global carriers in both Europe and the US, before joining AAL in 2015 as Commercial Manager. 

In October 2022, Henrik was promoted to General Manager of the entire Americas continent and has spearheaded AAL’s development into one of the most prolific and trusted multipurpose project heavy lift carriers.

 

Agustin Harriague

Vice President, Logistics, Inventory & Warehousing

Mitsubishi Power

Agustin Harriague serves as Vice President of Logistics & Warehousing at Mitsubishi Power Americas, leveraging extensive experience in the Energy Sector. A pivotal member of the Integrated Supply Chain leadership, Agustin oversees project logistics, transportation, and warehousing across diverse Mitsubishi Power businesses. With a career spanning regional and global leadership roles, he brings a focused perspective on power generation and renewables.

Recognized for his strategic leadership, Agustin provides direction for logistics, driving organizational growth while cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. He is deeply committed to fostering innovation and nurturing talent development initiatives within the company. Agustin holds post-graduate qualifications in Supply Chain Management, complementing his Bachelor's degrees in International Trade and Political Science.

Originally from Argentina, Agustin has been based in Florida since 2016, where he continues to make significant contributions not only to the energy sector but also to advancing diversity and championing talent pipeline development.

 

Cassia Bomer Galvao

Assistant Professor

Texas A & M Galveston

Dr. Galvao is recently promoted to be an Associate Professor at the Department of Maritime Business Administration of Texas A&M University at Galveston. She is an Economist and Social Scientist by training and holds a Master's in Political Economy and Ph.D. in Social Sciences, both from the Catholic University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Her research encompasses Maritime Economics, Policy and Management. She is a Fulbright Program Alumni and worked in the private sector for 10+ years for multinational maritime shipping & logistics companies. Her research utilizes qualitative data, applying techniques of content analysis and multi-method analysis, including interdisciplinary studies supported by an extensive network of collaborators. 

Her published research covers topics in Port Governance, Port Development, and Shipping Markets, including specialized issues in wind energy, refrigerated cargo and cruise markets. Presently she is working on several projects related to the Blue Economy focused on Port-City Relationship; Green and Sustainable Shipping; ESG and Stakeholder Management; including cutting-edge themes in Maritime Workforce development amidst Automation, Digitalization, and Decarbonization of the maritime industry.

She is a Guest Editor for the Transport Policy Case Studies Journal and a peer reviewer in several top-ranked journals in the Maritime Policy and Management field. She has 15+ years of experience in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in the International Trade and Maritime Business domain. She served as senior personnel at the TAMUG NSF REU Program (OceanUS). She serves at the NASEM/TRB (Transportation Research Board) Committees for Ports and Channels and Marine Environment and served at the IAME (International Association of Maritime Economists) Secretariat (2019-2021). 

Dr Galvao is a Professional Certified Marketer by AMA – American Marketing Association and is a member of IAMPE - International Association of Maritime and Port Executives.


 

Suresh Vasan

Senior Investment Advisor

Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office (LPO)

Suresh Vasan has held various roles in capital advisory and principal investing in his 25+ year career. He is currently a Senior Investment Advisor at the Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office (LPO). His role is to accelerate the deployment of billions of dollars to spur private sector investments across low/zero carbon energy assets across the US. 

Prior to the DOE LPO, he was a Partner at Energy Power Partners (EPP), a middle market renewable energy fund, responsible for general investment management, business development, capital solutions, and a member of the investment committee. At the direction of the managing partners and the IC, he led the sale of funds to NextEra for $1.2BN yielding significant return outcomes for its LPs. Prior to EPP, he spent ~3 years as Managing Director at Lazard focused on capital advisory for the energy and infrastructure sector. Suresh also spent ~12 years at GE Energy Financial Services, the energy principal investing arm of GE Capital, responsible for origination, risk management and board representation. 

In his career as a principal investor, Suresh successfully originated, underwrote and closed several billion dollars of transactions with simultaneous sell downs to investor groups across the energy and infrastructure value chain, including Power & Renewables, Fleet Electrification and Oil & Gas Infrastructure. He has global exposure, having worked overseas for ~ 9 years in London, the Hague, and Dubai. Suresh started his career at Enron, holding junior level positions in energy trading and principal investing.

Suresh received his Bachelors in Business Administration from the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin, with a focus on finance and a concentration on electrical engineering. He resides in Houston and is married with three children.
    
 

Madeline Inzenga

Associate

Norton Rose Fulbright

Madeline Inzenga is a commodity trading, shipping, and offshore energy lawyer at Norton Rose Fulbright.

Madeline has represented vessel owners, port authorities, energy companies, chemical plants, construction companies, and contractors in shipping and energy litigation matters. Madeline routinely assists energy companies and commodity traders to avoid disputes and mitigate risks by advising on proposed trading and shipping operations, with particular emphasis on unique Jones Act, Cargo Preference Act, and U.S. general maritime law issues. She has experience advocating for clients on matters involving the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Maritime Administration.

Madeline currently serves as Secretary for the Texas chapter of YoungShip, a networking organization for young professionals in the global maritime industry. She graduated from Tulane University Law School, where she received the Charles Kohlmeyer Jr. Award in Maritime Law. 


 

Ulrich Ulrichs

CEO

BBC Chartering

Ulrich Ulrichs has been Chief Executive Officer of Leer, Germany-based BBC Chartering since August 2019. He joined the company as Chief Commercial Officer in May 2019. Ulrich Ulrichs has more than twenty years of experience in management positions with specialized carriers in the multipurpose sector.

Before BBC Chartering, Ulrichs had been with Rickmers-Linie from 2005. In 2008 he was named Director Line Management and became Managing Director of the company in 2012. Ulrich Ulrichs was named CEO of Rickmers-Line in 2014, a position he held until leaving the company at the end of 2018. Prior his stint with Rickmers, he had been with Austral Asia Line in Shanghai and Brisbane for five years. Ulrich Ulrichs holds a diploma as industrial engineer from Oldenburg University of Applied Sciences, Elsfleth. 
 

Jessica Perez

Demurrage Analyst

Chevron Shipping Company

I work for Chevron in Commercial Shipping as a demurrage analyst.
I went to Texas A&M University – Galveston Campus
Got my bachelors and Masters from there. 

I have an education background where I was a graduate teaching assistant at TAMUG .
My professors selected me to represent our region at the IMO Student Conference in London where I meet with all the World Maritime Universities to collaborate and present how important it is to maintain the Sustainability of Maritime Education. 
I was most known around the industry as being a Student Volunteer Coordinator that helped many Maritime/Logistics Organizations within the Houston area to rally up for their events. 

 

Margaret A. Kidd

Program Director and Instructional Associate Professor

University of Houston

Margaret Kidd joined University of Houston in 2016, as Instructional Assistant Professor, Supply Chain & Logistics Technology. In 2018 she was promoted to Program Director and in 2022 was promoted to Instructional Associate Professor. Currently she serves on EIC, North & Central America Regional Advisory Board, Houston Maritime Centre Board of Trustees and University of Houston, Community Relation Alliance, Committee Member.

She is frequently in the media including, BBC World News, Fox Morning with Maria, Fox Sunday Night in America with Trey Goudy, NPR, Transport Topics, CNBC, Washington Post and many more, discussing supply chain disruption and solutions. Most recently, Margaret was featured on the cover of World’s Leaders as one of the World’s Outstanding Women in Supply Chain, 2022 and Breakbulk Magazine, Issue 2, 2024.

Margaret has a BBA, MA Cross-Cultural Studies, and has completed 60 doctoral credits in Urban Planning & Environmental Policy with a focus on port-city interface, sustainability, and economic development.