Eduardo Acosta is currently the Vice President of RL Jones Customhouse Brokers, with offices in 8 southern border cities and Los Angeles. He has been a partner since 1996.  Eduardo started his brokerage career in San Diego/Otay Mesa in 1990.  He got his Brokers license in 1997.

He is Chair for the NCBFAA’s Government Affairs Conference, as well as its Area 8 representative.  He is also Chair for the Pacific Coast Council (PCC), as well as board member (and past president) of Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce, Border Trade Alliance, Border Philanthropy Partnership and Smart Border Coalition.  He is also an active member of the SD Brokers Association, Tijuana Development Corporation (DEITAC), and Tijuana Maquiladora Association (Index).  

Eduardo is a graduate of the University of Arizona and is married (Anna) and has 3 children (Eduardo, Anna Lucia, and Maria Ines). 

Kimberly began her career in customs brokerage in 2008 and earned her U.S. Customs Broker license in 2015. She spent a decade at Albatrans, starting as an entry writer and rising to the role of Brokerage Supervisor. She then joined DB Schenker, where she served for six years as the FTZ Compliance Manager. In March 2024, Kimberly took on the role of Client Services Manager in the brokerage division at Metro Customs Brokers. She holds both Customs Certified Specialist and Certified Zone Specialist credentials through the NCBFAA and currently serves on the JFK Airport Customs Brokers Association Board of Directors

Laurie Arnold is Vice President Compliance leading the corporate compliance department of JAS Forwarding USA, Inc. since 2007. 

Laurie grew up in the transportation/logistics industry.  At a very young age, she started working in her family’s business and was able to gain a wealth of knowledge that created a pathway for success.

Laurie has experience and expertise in several areas including but not limited to Customs, import, export, regulations, trucking, corporate compliance, CTPAT and more.  She is  a Licensed Customs Broker, and is CCS and CES certified. 

Laurie is very passionate about her professional career.  She is actively involved with industry related associations and is currently the Treasurer for the NCBFAA. She previously held the position of the Legislative Committee Chair for several years prior.  She has held the position of COB and as President of AIFBA from 2013 until 2016.  Prior to holding the title of President, she served holding the positions of Vice President and Treasurer, and Government Affairs Coordinator for the State of Georgia.  

Lorine (Lori) Azzopardi is a Licensed Customs Broker with over 20 years of brokerage experience handling air, ocean, rail, and border crossings.  She completed the International Logistics Programs at Skyline College in 2010 and is a Certified Customs Specialist. With Thornley and Pitt from 2009 to 2018, she joined EFI Logistics Inc in 2018.  Lori is a client advocate assisting through international trade concerns and stays current with evolving trade laws and customs requirements. 

 Advancing trade and port community concerns, Lori serves as Second Vice President of the Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of Northern California (CBFANC).  As CBFANC Customs Committee co-chair and the Airport Committee Chair, Lori actively works with local port CBP and other government agencies.  Lori also continues her advocacy for the greater trade community as Area Six Representative for the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)

Nicole Bivens Collinson was appointed NCBFAA Legislative Counsel on October 15, 2021.

Collinson leads the International Trade and Government Relations Practice of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A., in Washington, D.C., and serves as managing principal of the Washington, D.C., office. She is also a member of ST&R's Operating Committee and a commentator on trade matters on MSNBC CNBC, BBC Worldwide and NPR.

Collinson has over 35 years of experience in government, public affairs, and lobbying. She has drafted and guided the successful implementation of several pieces of key international trade legislation positively affecting the bottom line of many U.S. companies. 

Collinson is a well-known international trade authority in Washington, regularly called upon by members of Congress and the Administration to help explain complex trade programs. Her decades of work with the House Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security committees and the Senate Finance; Commerce, Science and Transportation; Foreign Relations; and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs committees has established deep and lasting relations with members of Congress and their staffs.

Prior to joining Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, Collinson served as assistant chief negotiator for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, responsible for the negotiation of bilateral agreements with Latin America, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, the Sub-Continent and Africa. She also served as a country specialist in the International Trade Administration at the Department of Commerce, where she was responsible for the preparation of negotiations on specific topics between the U.S. and Latin America, Eastern Europe, China, and Hong Kong, as well as the administration of complex textile agreements.

Celebrating 80 years in business, Mr. Brauner’s company, Brauner International, has been a licensed customs broker and international freight forwarder since 1931. He served as NCBFAA President from 1992-1994 after which he was NCBFAA Chairman until 1998. From 1977-1979, he was an Executive Committee Director, precursor of the current Board of Directors, a 1984 member of the Annual Conference Committee, and he chaired the NCBFAA Budget and Finance Committee for many years. His son, Matthew, following in Dad’s footsteps, was elected to the Board of Directors in 2010 to represent NCBFAA Area 2, the New York/New Jersey region.

Brian Barber brings more than 25 years of hands‑on experience in customs regulations, international trade, and cross‑border logistics. As Vice President of U.S. Brokerage Operations and Government Affairs at Willson International Inc., he leads with a blend of regulatory expertise and practical operational insight.

A licensed U.S. Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) in both the U.S. and Canada, Brian oversees compliance, staff development, and operational performance for Willson’s brokerage operations. He also serves as the qualifying officer for the company’s corporate license and national permit, helping ensure Willson maintains its long‑standing reputation for regulatory excellence. His work often bridges policy and technology, partnering with solution providers to meet evolving government requirements while improving the client experience.

Brian’s industry involvement extends well beyond his day‑to‑day role. He spent a year in Washington, D.C. with the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, served two terms on the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC), and is a Past President of the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association. He continues to stay active in key trade facilitation and policy groups with U.S. Customs and Partner Government Agencies.

Brian is known for making complex regulatory topics accessible, and he brings a practical, real‑world perspective to every conversation.

Pam Brown is the Vice President of Future Forwarding Company who operates as a freight forwarder, 3PL provider, customs broker, FTZ operator as well as provides compliance services for import and export.  She has been in the industry for 40 years and has a broad base of experience across multiple facets of the international trade industry.  Currently operating two CFS stations as well as two FTZ’s in the Metro Atlanta area, regulatory requirements and compliance are a passion.  She is a licensed Customs broker, certified customs specialist, certified export specialist and currently serves as the Area 4 representative on the NCBFAA Customs Committee as well as the Board of Directors.  She has previously served in the Atlanta International Forwarders & Brokers Association for many years in roles and loves serving the community.  Currently serving as Scholarship Chair for the association.  

Since 2004, Anne-Marie Bush has been president of Veritrade International, a duty drawback specialist in Bellevue, WA.  Ms. Bush is active on the drawback committees of the NCBFAA, the PCC and the Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders Association of Washington State.  Currently she is serving on the CBP Drawback Working Group. 

Starting out at 6 months old with crossing back and forth to Canada, Ms. Bush began a lifelong connection in getting things “cleared” through Customs.  And even though she cleared her first shipment through Australian Customs in 1977, she did not officially enter the industry until after graduating from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.  Ms. Bush became a licensed customs broker while working for Emery Customs Brokers in Seattle.  It wasn’t until she began working at Veritrade International that she found her true passion – giving money back to her clients.

Kim Calicott serves as Vice President of Global Logistics & Export Compliance at Western Overseas Corporation, where she leads international freight operations and directs the company’s transportation compliance strategy. Her commitment to advancing the industry is demonstrated through her service as Chair of the NCBFAA Transportation Committee. With more than two decades of experience in global logistics, Kim is dedicated to promoting efficient, compliant trade and strengthening collaboration across the global logistics community.

Maurine has been working in international business for over 40 years.   She is a licensed Custom Broker and the Regional Compliance Director of Western Overseas Corporation, a national Customs Broker and International freight forwarder. Maurine obtained her Customs Brokers License in 1991, she is currently a Certified Customs Specialist as well as Certified Export Specialist..

Maurine is a past President of the Los Angeles Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Assoc.   Other association experience includes a chair position on the Pacific Coast Council; including WESCCON chair, as well as representing the LACBFFA on the steering committee for Cal State Long Beach’s Center for International Trade and Transportation and as a past instructor of their training classes.   Maurine has also held chair positions for Women in International Trade-L.A and was a past NCBFAA NVOCC Committee Chair

Jeff Coppersmith is President of Coppersmith Global Logistics. Jeff has been active in NCBFAA as an area director, Freight Forwarding Chair, Annual Conference Chairman, Treasurer, Vice President, President, and Chairman.  Jeff also served on the Board of the Los Angeles Brokers Association, Chairman of the Los Angeles World Trade Week, and also served as Chairman of the Pacific Coast Council.Coppersmith Inc. is celebrating 60 years in business. 

Started by his grandmother Adrienne, Jeff and his brother Bud are the third generation in the family business. Coppersmith has acquired several companies in the last few years and now offers complete Global Logistics.  Coppersmith has 11 offices throughout the United States and prides itself on the ability to give personal service with big time technology. Jeff who received his brokers License in 1985 and has been President of Coppersmith since 2002, is married to Roberta and they have two grown sons.

Mr. Corn was selected to take an active role for the trade in the Trade Support Network’s Drawback Working Group, leading efforts to write new regulations for drawback through the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 and to support the development and transition of drawback to the Automated Commercial Environment. David currently serves as the co-chair for AAEI’s Drawback and Duty Deferral Committee, as the vice chair for the NCBFAA’s Drawback Subcommittee, and he represents the New York/New Jersey region as a member of the board to the NCBFAA. In January 2022, Mr. Corn was appointed to the 16th term of the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC).

David actively discusses drawback with congressional representatives from NJ and NY, and the U.S. Trade Representative’s office. Mr. Corn is a frequent speaker on duty drawback in venues across the country each year.

David has a Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University in Consumer Affairs and is both a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist.

Ashley Craig was appointed NCBFAA Transportation Counsel on October 1, 2021.

Craig is co-chair of Venable’s International Trade Group, where he maintains a diverse practice advising industry clients on domestic and international regulatory compliance concerns. He regularly appears on behalf of clients before executive branch agencies and congressional committees with oversight of global commercial matters, foreign investment, transport/logistics, and economic regulation.

As an attorney, Craig has worked on transportation and logistics regulatory and legislative matters for more than two decades. His legislative experience includes, in part, the SAFE Port Act of 2006, the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, the Trade Act of 2002, and numerous miscellaneous trade and tariff bills, as well as implementation of regulations before federal agencies.

Karen Damon is Vice President, Regulatory Compliance at Mohawk Global Logistics.  Currently, she proudly serves as the president of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA). 

As a licensed customs broker, NCBFAA NEI Certified Customs Specialist and Certified Export Specialist she is an advocate for trade.  Through active participation in various trade organizations, such as the Trade Support Network and CBP’s Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) working groups, Karen is proud to demonstrate Mohawk Global Logistics’ core values of Enrich, Care and Deliver. 

 She served as a past President of the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association and co-chair of the regulatory agencies committee (RAC), treasurer and vice president of the NCBFAA. 

 Karen gives back to her community by volunteering through the SPCA Paws for Love program, visiting assisted living and behavioral health facilities with her dog, Molson.

Ralph De La Rosa is currently serves on the board of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) and was recently named as the Vice Chair of the NCBFAA Customs Committee as well as chair of the NCBFAA Trade Interruption and Resumption Subcommittee. He is also Vice President and Customs Committee Chair of the Florida Customs Broker and Forwarder Association (FCBF). He has been a Board member of FCBF since 2018. Additionally, he serves as President and CEO of Imperial Freight Brokers, a full-service supply chain, logistics, customs brokerage, and transportation firm based in South Florida that has been serving the global marketplace for the past 52 years. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Florida International University and is a licensed customs broker.

Monica joined C. H. Robinson in 1998 and became a Licensed Customs House Broker in 2001.  Monica is Manager of U.S. Customs at C. H. Robinson where she works with our network building compliance solutions for clients.  She has been an active participant in the local Detroit Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association (DCBFA) serving as an officer for many years and President for the past two years.  Monica is also a Board Member and serves as the Customs Committee Co-Chair for the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association (NBCBA) and is a Board Member for the NCBFAA – Area 5 and member of the Legislative Committee. Monica has consulted clients on a number of import compliance matters including tariff classification, bond sufficiency and valuation matters to name a few. Monica is located in the Southfield, MI, Detroit Global Forwarding office. 

Lenny Feldman, Esq. is a Senior Member of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. where he serves on the Firm's Operating Committee. He serves as both general and customs counsel to NCBFAA.

Lenny formerly co-chaired the 15th Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) and previously served as the Co-Chair of the 14th COAC's Trade Modernization Subcommittee. He has led COAC working groups including: Ecommerce/Section 321, Broker Regulatory Reform, Regulatory Modernization, Centers of Excellence & Expertise Uniformity and International Engagement & Trade Facilitation.

Lenny innovatively and efficiently advises customs brokers, freight forwarders, importers, exporters and carriers to develop and adopt best practices and compliance programs in the import and export context. Prior to joining the Firm, Lenny served nine years as a senior attorney with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (formerly the U.S. Customs Service) responsible for issuing national rulings, decisions and directives relating to import and export compliance and enforcement.

He also formerly served as the Chief Compliance Officer of a software development company created to automate global import and export regulatory requirements. Lenny has been recognized for his efforts by numerous trade publications and associations such as the Florida Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association and World Trade Center Miami over the years. By serving on local and national boards and taskforces he passionately advocates for laws, policies and strategies that increase two-way trade and stimulate international business

Rob Fickeisen is a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist, who works as a Customs Brokerage Compliance Manager with UPS Customs & Trade Compliance.  He has been with UPS for nearly 20 years.  Prior to Compliance, Rob had brokerage experience on the Northern Border, in air/ocean freight, with small package/express, in client support, and in training.

Rob is a proud and active member of the NCBFAA.  He’s the chair of the Annual Conference Committee, and serves on the Regulatory Agencies Committee, the CPSC RAC Sub-Committee, and the AD/CVD Customs Sub-Committee.  He is also a member of the currently in hiatus TSN eCommerce Committee.

Rob has two cats, and his favorite color is purple.

Janet B Fields (Jan) began her career with John S. James Co. when she was 18 years old.   She advanced from Export Administrator to Office Manager and now holds the position of corporate Director of Risk Management at John S James Co.  Jan became a licensed Customs Broker in 1988, a Certified Ocean Forwarder in 1997, a Certified Customs Specialist in 2006 and a Certified Export Specialist in 2009.  Jan has served as President of the Savannah Brokers & Forwarders Association as well as the Legislative Chairman.

Jan has been an active member of NCBFAA since the 80s volunteering for whatever position was needed for the success of the association.  Serving as Area 4 board member and Transportation Committee Chairman for many years.  Jan was instrumental in forming the NEI meeting with Canada on their CCS program and nurturing the CES program by teaching and testing for certification. Jan served as NEI chairman for many years, has served as President of the NCBFAA and is currently a Senior Counsel.

Jan resides in Savannah Georgia with her husband Billy.  They have two sons, one daughter and eight grandchildren.

Michelle Francis is a licensed Customs Broker and Vice President of Magic Custom Brokers Inc, in Canton MA.  Magic Custom Brokers Inc is a family-owned business started in 1984 by her father-in-law. The company is now run by Michelle, her husband Kevin, brother-in-law Will and her son Owen. She is a Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) with the NCBFAA. Michelle is currently the President of the Boston Custom Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association (BCBFFA), NCBFAA Membership Committee Chair, and a member of the NCBFAA Customs Committee. She also served as Chair of the NCBFAA Affiliated Presidents Network. Michelle has BS from the Isenberg School of Management, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Jose D. Gonzalez is a licensed U.S. customs broker who has operated a customs house under the same name since 1994.  He currently serves as the LLUSCBA Customs Committee & Education as well as senior advisor to the board of the LLUSCBA. Prior to his involvement with these Committees, JD was Executive Chairman of the LLUSCBA, president of the Laredo Customs Brokers Association in 2010-2011 whom represents one of the largest concentrations of customs brokers who work closely with CBP.

During his time as chair of these two committees he has been very instrumental in managing the Associations issues to submit to US Customs at our monthly meetings and creating and marketing the education program by developing an educational outreach program that ensures that the Association meets its educational and professional goals. The programs offered by the Association are not only for Customs Brokers and Forwarders but all Trade Stakeholders that are involved in the international supply chain.

Mr. Gonzalez has been and continues to be involved in many trade related as well as civic related organization. A few of the organizations he is involved with are the following:, Present board member of The Airport Advisory Board, past advisory board member of The Laredo Development Foundation past board member of the City of Laredo Blue Ribbon Committee, in addition to being recognized for several accomplishments for Trade related development

Mr. Gonzalez proudly served in the United States Navy from 1982 until he was honorably discharged in 1992 after being named Sailor of the Year for his command. During his enlistment, he was involved in Mediterranean operations off the coast of Beirut, operations in the North Atlantic, as well as several Western Pacific operations during the Iran Iraq crises. In addition during his enlistment he continued his education and graduated in 1992 from National University in San Diego Ca, where he earned a Bachelors of Business Administration Degree in Accounting.

Len James is a Licensed Customs Broker elected as the interim Treasurer for the NCBFAA. Since 2002, Len has worked as Chief Financial Officer for the John S. James Co., a third-generation family business founded in 1941 in Savannah, GA.

Over the course of his career, Len has worked in all aspects of the forwarding and customs brokerage industry. From time spent in the warehouse, he moved to export documentation, accounting, NVOCC operations, import clearance, department and branch management, and ultimately executive leadership and ownership. He is a Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), Certified Export Specialist (CES), and supports all forms of continuing education in our industry. Len is a passionate advocate for the NCBFAA and its value to its membership.

Len previously chaired the NCBFAA Annual Conference Committee and was honored to be a member of the NCBFAA board of directors. Locally, he is the current president of the International Propeller Club, Port of Savannah, and served in many executive offices of the Propeller Club. He was president of the IFFCBA of Savannah for many years, and volunteers for several local non-profit boards, including the CFO Council of Savannah and the Savannah Children’s Theatre.

Len earned his undergraduate degree in International Political Science from the University of Georgia, and an MBA in International Business from Georgia State University. He lives in Savannah with his beautiful wife Lisa, with whom he has two wonderful daughters and a dog.

Jaynette (Jay Jay) Kettler has over three decades of experience in managing critical import and export processes and controls for a wide array of global clients.   Her skills include the establishment of Key Performance Indicators to assure customer satisfaction and compliance with all import/export rules and regulations.

Her industry experience includes service to projects in wind and petroleum energy, and manufacturing plants and production equipment ranging from steel and wind energy, to galvanizing lines and chemical facilities.

She was also part of the UTC team handling logistics relating to the construction and installation of the Williams Project – a massive offshore FPS in the Gulf of Mexico. UTC has handled logistics for all elements of the project from materials and equipment to delivery of sub sections of the platform and tower (units of up to 200 tons) to final assembly locations in Texas and Louisiana.

Ms. Kettler’s duties on the project have included import documentation management for all globally sourced materials and equipment shipped to U.S. sub-contractors across the USA including Puerto Rico and Alaska.   She has also met with U.S. Customs office staff to assure compliance with clearance requirements on final shipments delivered to offshore platforms. Timely completion of documentation is a critical element of the project’s success, given customer requirements for critical-path construction timetables.

Ms. Kettler is active in many associations and is the current Area 7 Director for the National Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association www.ncbfaa.org, along with the Vice President of the local Houston Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association.  She also supports US Customs participating in the Trade Support Network. 

 

Michael Lahar is the Regulatory Affairs Manager for A.N. Deringer, Inc.  He began working in the field of international trade and Customs in 1987, obtained his Customs brokers license in 1990 and joined the Deringer family in 1997. Mike has corporate oversight of Customs and Regulatory Affairs as well as Deringer’s FDA Agent Program, USCMA Program, and the Bond Department.  He is a recognized industry leader in matters regarding “Partner Government Agencies” (PGAs) and chairs the Regulatory Agencies Committee (RAC) for the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).  Mike has participated in numerous forums in support of streamlined trade and has testified before Congress. He speaks regularly as well as providing training concerning CBP and PGA matters.  

Langford-Coty, Sandra LCB, CCS

Sandra (Sandy) Langford-Coty is the Director of Operational Development at A.N. Deringer, Inc. In this position, she strengthens Deringer’s operational efficiencies and compliance as well as increasing customer satisfaction.  

Sandy is Chair of the Customs Committee for the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). Additionally, she serves the Pacific Coast Council of Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association in her role as President. She is active within US Customs and Border Protection’s Trade Support Network and Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) working groups, as well as the Past President of the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association (LACBFFA). She holds much expertise within Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and Partner Government Agencies (PGA).

Prior to joining Deringer, Sandy held the role of Vice President of Customs Brokerage with a large logistics company. Sandy is a Licensed Customs Broker and a Certified Customs Specialist with a bachelor’s degree in Resource Economics from the University of Massachusetts.

Scott Larson began his career in international logistics in 1987 as an IBM computer mainframe support technician, RPG-II and Cobol programmer. Scott obtained his Customs Brokers License in 1991 and currently holds the position of Senior Vice President and Corporate Compliance Manager for MOL logistics (USA) Inc. He is responsible for all facets of import and export activity for MOL's U.S. and Canadian offices.

He has served the NCBFAA as Area 5 representative, Affiliated President's Network Committee Chairman, and Customs committee representative and Treasurer.  NEI Customs Certified Specialist (CCS), and Certified Export Specialist (CES).  Past President of the Chicago Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association; and former director of the International Air Cargo Association of Chicago.  

Arthur Litman is a licensed customs broker. In 1998 Mr. Litman retired from FedEx Trade Networks, where he served as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Compliance. He started with Castelazo & Associates in 1964 and rose to become President of the company. Castelazo & Associates was acquired in 1991 by Tower Group and later by FedEx.

Active in trade associations. He is a past president of the International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations, the NCBFAA, and the Foreign Trade Association of Southern California. He served on the board of the American Association of Exporters and Importers for 17 years.

Appointed to the Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) when it was chartered in 1988, Mr. Litman has served six two-year terms. While a member of COAC, Mr. Litman was a leader in efforts to move to a monthly payment process for duties and taxes, and during the 9/11 term was active developing C-TPAT and other security measures.

Mr. Litman is an ACE Trade Ambassador and for 10 years was co-chair of the Trade Support Network Entry Committee. Mr. Litman represented FedEx on the World Customs Organization’s Private Sector Consultative Group in Brussels, working on the WCO’s SAFE Framework of Standards.He is a recipient of the Stanley T. Olafson Bronze Plaque Award, the first NCBFAA Centurion Award, the AAEI Trade Warrior Award, CBP’s ACE Award and the Commissioner of Customs Award of Recognition.

Mr. Litman is an attorney admitted to practice in the State of California. He can be reached at (310) 838-4205 or via e-mail at litman@customsadvice.com Arthur Litman is a licensed customs broker. In 1998 Mr. Litman retired from FedEx Trade Networks, where he served as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Compliance. He started with Castelazo & Associates in 1964 and rose to become President of the company. Castelazo & Associates was acquired in 1991 by Tower Group and later by FedEx.Active in trade associations, Mr. Litman is currently a Senior Counselor of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America. He is a past president of the International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations, the NCBFAA, and the Foreign Trade Association of Southern California. He served on the board of the American Association of Exporters and Importers for 17 years.

He is a recipient of the Stanley T. Olafson Bronze Plaque Award, the first NCBFAA Centurion Award, the AAEI Trade Warrior Award, CBP’s ACE Award and the Commissioner of Customs Award of Recognition.

Mr. Litman is a licensed customs broker and an attorney admitted to practice in the State of California.

U.S. License Customs Broker
Certified Customs Specialist
Graduate from Grand Canyon University
Bachelor of Science in Applied Management

Eduardo E Lozano is the CEO and President of Eduardo E Lozano & Co Inc dba EELCO with offices in Laredo, Miami and Mexico.

Eduardo opened his first FTZ warehouse in 1994 and obtain his US Customs Brokerage license in 1997. With over 33 years of experience in the customs brokerage he has contributed to the international community by teaching, mentoring, and mentoring new graduates from the university (TAMIU) and Laredo College.

Currently Eduardo is actively involved with the Local and national customs brokers association. Here are the most recent participations: 

2017-2023 Subcommittee member of the Automation committee for the NCBFAA
2018-2019 Board Member of Laredo License Customs Broker Association
2022-2023 Board Member of Laredo License Customs Broker Association
2022-Present Education Committee at Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association
2022-Present Membership Chair LLUSCBA
2023-Present Area 8 Nominations committee at NCBFAA
2023-Present Area 8 Board
2024-Present LLUSCBA Board Member

Amy Magnus, Director of Customs Affairs and Compliance for A.N. Deringer, Inc., in Champlain, NY, is a licensed Customs Broker, Certified Customs Specialist, and Certified Export Specialist. She also serves on COAC’s 14th term and is the former NCBFAA Vice President and Secretary as well as former President of the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association in addition to being an ACE Trade Ambassador working with the Trade Support Network.

Prior to becoming a Customs Broker, Ms. Magnus worked for U.S. Customs Service for 18 years. When she left Customs, she was the Trade Manager in the Champlain NY Area Service Port. During her career, she worked with various Customs HQ Offices in Washington, DC assisting in drafting policies and procedures as they related to NAFTA, Compliance Measurement, Enforcement and other trade sensitive issues. Ms. Magnus is a former Fines, Penalties, and Forfeiture Officer, and in her early years with U.S. Customs served as an inspector and import specialist.

Ms. Magnus has a BA and an advanced teaching degree from the University of Vermont.

Prior to joining the NCBFAA, Megan was the Principal Consultant for Washington, DC-based MWM Consultants, in which capacity she  managed conferences, events and operational activities for multiple clients. In addition, she brings with her extensive industry experience that she acquired during five years of service as the Director of Government Affairs at the American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI) in Washington, DC.

During her AAEI tenure, she engaged in budget management, educational outreach, communication initiatives, public appearances, and she managed association issues and volunteer-driven committees that involved general Customs/CBP issues, Homeland Security programs and initiatives, drawback, and general trade policy to connect trade professionals and facilitate learning.

Before joining AAEI, Ms. Montgomery was Director, Economic Development and Government Affairs for the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce, Towson, MD. In that capacity, she lobbied various governmental bodies on issues such as immigration, health care, education and taxation as well as maintained regular contact with local and state news media. In addition, she tracked legislation and county regulations as well as informed chamber membership about relevant developments. She also developed and implemented the legislative agenda and strategy for the chamber.

Ms. Montgomery was also Government Affairs Assistant for the Motor and Equipment Manufacturing Association in Washington, DC. That position involved lobbying members of the House and Senate on business and international trade as well as drafting issue papers and talking points for Congressional visits by industry executives. In addition to writing on regulatory, legislative and trade policy issues, she also monitored government affairs issues including U.S. trade with China, product counterfeiting, healthcare, trade safeguard measures, foreign trade practices, and small business programs.

Similar to our upcoming Government Affairs Conference, she coordinated congressional visits for over 100 volunteer representatives with 50 congressional offices as part of fly-in.

In addition, Ms. Montgomery has worked as a Staff Assistant for former Representative Richard Norman "Doc" Hastings (R-WA)and a Congressional Intern for former Senator Thomas Slade Gorton III, (R-WA). She was also a Series 6/63 licensed Financial Advisor for Fortis Investors in Bellevue, WA.

Ms. Montgomery has earned a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Washington, Seattle, WA, and a Juris Doctor degree from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law, Washington, DC.

Mary Jo Muoio is Director, Customs and Trade at Amazon leading development and deployment of Amazon-offered customs brokerage and strategic trade services. Prior, Ms. Muoio was Senior Vice President of Trade Services and Government Relations with Geodis, Inc.  Before assuming leadership of the consulting division, Ms. Muoio was a Senior Vice-President of Barthco International, Inc., a leading customs broker acquired by Geodis. She is a licensed customs broker, having passed the exam with the highest score in the nation.  In 2023 she was recognized by the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, Inc. with the coveted Centurion Award—one of only 12 recognized individuals in a field of over 14,000.  In May of 2024, Ms. Muoio was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame—marking the first time this recognition was extended to a licensed customs broker. 

Ms. Muoio is currently serving as Senior Counselor/Board of Director and Chairman Emeritus of the Customs Committee of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, Inc., a post she assumed after serving as Chairman of the Board and two terms as President. Before being elected as the first female president of this influential association, she served as Vice-President for several terms, Secretary, Board of Director and on key Association committees. Ms. Muoio was appointed as a Director to the International Federation of Customs Brokers and represents the US customs brokerage industry under the IFCBA flag at the World Customs Organization.

Ms. Muoio served as Vice-President for Imports of the New York New Jersey Forwarders and Brokers Association for many years, resigning to focus her energies on the national level. She continues to serve on the Board of Governors and is honored to be a recipient of their Captain of Industry Award. She is a Past-President of the Philadelphia Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association. Ms. Muoio served two terms on COAC, the Departmental Advisory Committee on Commercial Operations of Customs and Border Protection and Related Functions and continues to serve on several working groups. Ms. Muoio serves on the Board of the American Association of Exporters and Importers where she has been a career-long member and serves on the Trade Support Network. At the start of her career, Ms. Muoio taught at the college level in Japan. Ms. Muoio is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s University with a degree in International Relations.

Lori Mullins is a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist with over 35 years of experience in import customs brokerage and trade compliance. As Director of Operations at Rogers & Brown Customs Brokers, she oversees multiple import teams and provides compliance consulting and training to help clients navigate complex regulatory requirements.

Lori is an active industry leader, currently serving as President of the Houston Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association after holding several board roles. She also serves as Media Chair for the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), advocating for the international trade community both locally and in Washington, D.C.

Passionate about international trade, Lori is dedicated to supporting the customs brokerage and forwarding community and investing in the future of the industry.

Jerrod Nutt is a member of the leadership team at Deringer, serving as a District Manager. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Jerrod is a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. As a District Manager, Jerrod is responsible for overseeing the CHB and meat inspection operations in Champlain, NY. He previously held positions in Deringer’s Pembina/Portal, Buffalo and Highgate locations.

Jerrod is a graduate of the State University of New York at Geneseo, where he studied International Business, further enhancing his understanding of the global trade landscape.

In addition to his role at Deringer, Jerrod is a board member of the Northern Border Customs Broker’s Association. He is also a past board member of the Canadian-American Border Trade Alliance.

Geoffrey Powell is currently CEO of C.H. Powell Company, a 4^th generation family business that was established in 1919 by his grandparents in Boston, Massachusetts. C.H. Powell Company is an International Logistics Provider, Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker with offices located throughout the United States and has ownership in Tandem Global Logistics, a global logistics company.   

In January 2007, Mr. Powell was appointed to Customs and Border Protection’s advisory Committee (COAC) and served for two terms, and continued to serve on other COAC work groups.  In August, 2013, Mr. Powell was appointed to the President’s Export Council, Subcommittee on Export Administration (PECSEA), an advisory committee to the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security. 

Mr. Powell has also been actively engaged with the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), an association that has represented forwarders and customs brokers since 1897, and served in multiple positions, culminating in the role of President from April 2014 until May 2018. In April 2025, he was awarded the NCBFAA Centurion Award, the association’s highest recognition to an individual for their dedication to the customs brokerage industry. 

Jenette Prince is Vice President, Trade Control for Kuehne+Nagel Inc., where she leads the U.S. trade compliance program supporting customs brokerage and freight forwarding operations. In this role, she oversees customs and export compliance, internal controls, policy development, and regulatory engagement, with a strong focus on CBP‑defensible governance and operational execution.

Jenette is a Licensed Customs Broker and holds the Master Customs Specialist (MCS) and Certified Export Specialist (CES) designations. A committed advocate for compliant and efficient trade, she is actively engaged in industry leadership and professional development initiatives. Jenette currently serves as Chair of the NCBFAA Government Affairs Conference Committee and previously served as Chair of the NCBFAA Political Action Committee. She also serves as a mentor with Women in Logistics Leadership (WILL) and has held multiple association leadership roles, including President and Chair of the Board for the Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association (FCBF) and Vice President of the Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association of Northern California (CBFANC).

Jenette is dedicated to advancing the mission of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) through collaboration, standards‑building, and education within the international trade community. As part of her ongoing professional development, she will begin law school in Fall 2026, further strengthening her expertise in regulatory, compliance, and trade‑related matters.

Charlene is the East Coast Vice President with J W Allen, a logistics firm that has been in business for 92 years. 

Charlene started in the industry after receiving her degree in International Politics from Pennsylvania State University.  She has been in the logistics industry for over thirty-five years.  Charlene received her customs brokerage license in 1989.  She has been in various corporate leadership positions in offices throughout the United States, among them New York/Newark, JFK, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia. 

She has been on the board of the New York/New Jersey Foreign Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers Association (“NYNJFFFBA”) since 2004.  She served as the treasurer, Vice President of Imports and President of the NYNJFFFBA.  She currently serves as a senior advisor to the NYNJFFFBA.  She has been an active volunteer with the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (“NCBFFAA”).  She served on various committees with the NCBFAA – Customs Committee representing the Port of New York, Chair of the Legislative Committee and Chair of the FIATA committee.  Charlene represented the NCBFAA at two FIATA World Congress events.

Charlene received NYNJFFFBA’s 2025 Captain of Industry Award. 

She has many interests which include movies, theater, music, sports and travel.  She enjoys sharing a meal and wine with friends and family on the weekends. 

Rich Roche has worked in the NVOCC field for the last 32 years in Syracuse NY where he is currently Senior Vice President at Mohawk Global Logistics.  He also supports the forwarding industry nationally through NCBFAA where he is Chairman of the NVOCC sub-committee. He served on three of the FMC’s Innovation Teams covering supply chain and detention & demurrage issues. He previously worked at Hapag-Lloyd, and as a licensed marine cargo insurance broker in Manhattan. Rich is a graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY where he received a bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science & Marine Transportation and was commissioned in the United States Naval Reserve.  During his seagoing career, Rich sailed as deck officer aboard breakbulk ships, oil tankers, ro/ro’s and containerships, upgrading his license to Chief Mate of vessels any gross tons upon oceans and First Class Pilot on the Upper Bay of NY Harbor. Rich regularly appears as an expert witness in maritime related cases that include cargo claims, documentation, and contract disputes. Rich recently completed a four-year term serving on the National Shippers Advisory Committee to the FMC. Rich has also been admitted as a Non-Attorney Practitioner at the FMC.

Christine Sliwinski is a Licensed Customs Broker and CCS professional, serving as the Customs Brokerage Responsible Supervision and Control Manager at Maersk Customs Services USA, Inc. With more than 35 years of experience in the industry, she possesses comprehensive expertise in imports, operational efficiencies, trade compliance, and PGA matters.

Christine is also known for her dedication to education and professional development at Maersk Customs Services USA, Inc.  She has recently collaborated, restructured, and implemented a guided, self-study Customs Broker Licensing Exam (CBLE) Prep Course at Maersk, which aims to prepare aspiring customs brokers for their licensing exams.

In addition to her role at Maersk, Christine has been the Vice President of the Boston Customs Broker & Freight Forwarders Association since 2017. She is also a member of the NCBFAA Customs Committee and the Regulatory Affairs Committee

Paige Stewart Morgan is a third-generation customs broker who has been immersed in the industry since childhood. She began her professional career in her family’s customs brokerage business in 1985 and earned her Customs Broker License in 1993. In addition to her extensive experience, Paige holds the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) designations of Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and Certified Export Specialist (CES).

In December 2012, Paige joined forces with Page & Jones, Inc., where she leads the Dallas/Fort Worth branch office. A long-time advocate for the industry, she has been actively involved with the North Texas Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association since the 1990s and currently serves as its President.

William J. St. John, Jr. is President of W.R. Zanes & Co. of LA., Inc. a Customs Brokerage and Freight Forwarding firm which has been active in international trade over 95 years.

Mr. St. John has been personally involved in Customs Brokerage and International Freight Forwarding for over 50 years.  He was licensed as a customhouse broker on November 8, 1955 and practices in the New Orleans District.

Mr. St. John, a native New Orleanean, attended parochial schools in the City of New Orleans.  His professional and civic achievements are numerous.  Mr. St. John is a past President of the New Orleans Association of Customhouse Brokers, Inc (1973-75) and of the New Orleans Traffic and Transportation Bureau (1979-81).  He also served as the first President of the newly organized Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers Association of New Orleans, Inc. (1975-77).

In addition, Mr. St. John has a long-standing relationship with the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, Inc., in which he held many prestigious positions, including New Orleans Area Representative on the National Advisory Committee (1962, 1971-77) and Area Vice-President for the Gulf Region (1972-75).  Mr. St. John also served as the Secretary for the Association (1976-78), the Vice-President (1979-1982), President (1982-1986) and Chairman of the Board (1987-1990).  Presently, he is a Senior Counselor on the Board of Directors.

Cindy Thomas became the NCBFAA Regulatory Agencies Committee (RAC) Counsel in January 2020.

After many years of working with NCBFAA as part of the Kent & O’Connor Washington Representative team led by Jon Kent, Thomas brought to this position an in-depth knowledge of Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) policy and operational matters, as well as their impact on customs brokers and freight forwarders.

As RAC Counsel, Thomas has worked with RAC leaders to energize and expand the Committee’s work, ensuring a coordinated and cohesive strategy for effectively engaging PGAs. With her guidance and expertise, the RAC has developed innovative resources for NCBFAA members, such as the Organics Toolkit to assist members with the challenging rollout of the USDA's National Organic Program electronic Import Certificate and a PGA Matrix to provide a top-down overview of all the PGAs, including links to useful materials. With unprecedented outreach to agency policymakers, the RAC continues to shape policy and operational implementation that improves our nation’s import processes.

Joe Trulik is the Director of Compliance and Consulting for Cole International USA, Inc., and a Licensed U.S. Customs Broker.  He specializes in customs compliance strategy, regulatory guidance, and risk mitigation, helping importers navigate complex trade requirements and enforcement environments. The consulting practice he leads focuses on classification, valuation, trade remedies, post-entry corrections, and a broad range of regulatory initiatives.

Joe previously held senior executive roles at FedEx Trade Networks and Russell A. Farrow (U.S.) Inc., where he led U.S. brokerage operations and compliance functions while supporting enterprise-wide initiatives. Across these roles, he has developed deep expertise in operational compliance, trade regulations, and client advisory services.

Joe holds a B.A. from the University of Michigan and an M.B.A. from Eastern Michigan University. He began his career in international transportation and customs brokerage with CJ Tower & Sons, a predecessor organization to FedEx Trade Networks.

He has held leadership roles with the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association (NBCBA), previously served on the board of the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), and is a past President of the Detroit Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association (DCBFA).  Joe remains active on multiple NCBFAA and NBCBA committees, has supported COAC working groups and holds both Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and Certified Export Specialist (CES) designations.

Patty Tschaepe is the Chief Compliance Officer for J&K Fresh, LLC, a customs brokerage firm specializing in the clearance of fresh produce. In this role, she leads the development and implementation of compliance programs and business strategies that strengthen regulatory integrity across the organization and support the diverse client base J&K Fresh represents.

Patty is an active industry leader and currently serves as Chairman and Seaport Chair for the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association. She also holds the position of Vice President of the Pacific Coast Council (PCC), where she collaborates with the leadership team to support the PCC’s signature events, including the PCC Mission and the WESCCON Conference. In addition, she represents the Los Angeles area as a Board Member of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America.

With more than 30 years of experience in the customs brokerage industry, Patty is a licensed U.S. Customs Broker recognized for her depth of knowledge and commitment to compliance excellence. She holds an Associate Degree in Merchandise Marketing from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM), Los Angeles.

Based in San Pedro, California, Patty overlooks the Port of Los Angeles each day—an ever-present reminder of the critical role international trade plays in the global economy and the industry she is proud to serve.

Ms. Whittenburg is a committed champion of international trade education and training, currently serving as the Executive Vice President of the NCBFAA Educational Institute whose mission is to provide relevant content via multimedia platforms to equip our nation’s 21st century cross-border, trade-related workforce. She is a civil service and U.S. Army veteran helping American businesses design clear, legally compliant, and socially responsible cross-border trade strategies. In her over 10 years as a Senior Executive and director, she oversaw a complex mission of facilitating lawful trade and exercising trade enforcement to ensure fair and competitive trade.  Ms Whittenburg managed a $300+ million budget leading a highly diverse staff of CBP professionals in pursuing transformative trade policies that promoted economic security and growth for American businesses, along with ensuring only safe and legitimate products entered the U.S. commerce.  She is currently serving as a member of the United States Trade Representative Trade Advisory Committee on Africa. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/Business at Dillard University, holds master’s degrees in both Public Administration from Georgia Southern University, and Legal Studies in International Business Law from the University of Oklahoma.  Ms. Whittenburg also completed the Senior Managers in Government course at Harvard Kennedy School of Government.  As an active member of the Executive Women in Government, Ms. Whittenburg recently served two terms as President of the this  organization whose objective is to advocate for the advancement of women in senior leadership positions as well as prepare the up-and-coming tier of women for senior executive roles in the Federal Government.

Melzie Wilson is CEO of The Global Zolutions, a supply chain consultant in Memphis, Tennessee.  With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our services offer a wide range of support from imports, exports, warehousing, FTZ, and transportation, especially around those under the FMC.  CargoWise training is also a service that is available for clients as well.

Licensed Customs Broker, a Certified Customs Specialist, and a Certified Export Specialist. 

Active member of the National Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association:

                        Board of Directors – Area 7 Representative

Former Chair of the Logistics Sub-Committee

                        Member of the NEI Content Committee
Former Chair of the Transportation Committee.Former Vice Chair of the Transportation Committee

Former Area 7 Representative of the Board of Directors

Former CESAC Representative under the Customs Committee

Former Co-Chair of the Annual Conference Committee

Former Member of Secretary of Commerce’s Advisory Council on Supply Chain Competitiveness

Member of International Compliance Professional Association.

Melzie is an avid fan of sports and especially the New Orleans Saints.

Melzie still finds time to volunteer with the Hogs for the Cause Organization out of New Orleans. It is a unique barbeque competition where money is raised to assist families with children who have brain cancer.   She also serves as Vice President of the World Jr BBQ League.  A non-profit that focusses on young people in developing “skills beyond the grill.”  She is also the Organizer of the BBQ festival in Memphis called SmokeSlam BBQ Festival.

Federico (Kiko) C. Zuniga graduated in 1979 from Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelors of Business Administration Degree in Finance.  After college, he worked at the Union National Bank of Laredo as a Bank Loan Officer in the International Department.  In 1983 he joined his father and brother in F. Zuniga Inc. CHB and became a licensed broker and one third partner in 1984, He is currently a 50% owner of F. Zuniga Inc., He is also a 50% partner in Diamond Distribution Center in Laredo, Texas.

Currently Federico Zuniga is the Director of the Educational Institute at the NCBFAA (The National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America).  Zuniga served as Chairman of the NCBFAA from March of 2006 thru March of 2010.  He now serves as a Senior Counselor for the Board.  Before his Position as Chairman, Zuniga served the NCBFAA as President from March of 2002 till March 2006. Federico also served as Vice President and Treasurer of the NCBFAA.  Zuniga participated on many committees within the organization such as, the Customs Committee (as a member, as well as Chair), Audit and Conference Committees.  He has also chaired the NCBFAA PAC. 

Zuniga is also a past Chairman of IFCBA (The International Federation of Customs Brokers Association).  Prior to serving as Chairman of IFCBA, Federico served as a Managing Director for four years.   

Prior to his involvement with the NCBFAA, Zuniga was the President of the Laredo Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association.  He was also instrumental in the addition of a new region within the NCBFAA organization (region 8 encompassing the southern border of the United States) at which time he began his service on the Board of Directors of the NCBFAA. 

Federico Zuniga served on the Department of Homeland Security COAC Committee, which has oversight on matters of International trade from 2004 thru 2008.

In addition to his role with F. Zuniga Inc., The Laredo Brokers and Forwarders Association, NCBFAA, and IFCBA Federico Zuniga has been and continues to be involved in many trade related as well as civic related organization. A few of the organizations he is involved with are the following: 

• Past board member of The Laredo Development Foundation.
• Present board member of The Boys & Girls Club of Laredo.  
• National Advisory Board member of BBVA Compass (Banco Bilboa Vizcaya Argentaria)/Compass.  A bank with US$69 billion in assets and primarily located in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, and Texas