Cindy Allen

Cindy established Trade Force Multiplier to assist international trade enterprises by identifying company and compliance risks utilizing data analysis; providing results driven reporting that demonstrates value, identifying mitigation strategies, and key investments for the C-Suite; outlining technology strategies that align with targeted risk levels; performing import and export focused due diligence for merger and acquisition activity; and providing valuable governmental agency and legislative insights and engagement services.

Cindy has been actively involved in the international trade industry on a consistent basis for 35 years and has held various positions in the import and export operations, consulting, compliance, and automation arenas. Previously, she served as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Compliance responsible for ensuring that FedEx Logistics remained compliant with current laws and regulations that govern business on a global basis. Cindy also served as the Executive Director of the ACE Business Office at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), as well as Vice President at several private sector firms.

Cindy testified before the Senate Finance Committee on customs modernization in February 2023, as well as before the House Committee on Homeland Security Committee in 2008 regarding cargo security. Cindy is a past member of the DHS Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC); an executive committee member of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Freight Logistics Optimization Works (FLOW); and an active member of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), International Compliance Professional’s Association (ICPA), and American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI). Cindy has been a frequent speaker at customs compliance seminars, roundtables, and conferences for many associations while in both the private sector and government employment.

A licensed customs broker since 1990, Cindy is also a Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and Certified Export Specialist (CES) through the NCBFAA.

Back to Top

Kristiann “Kristi” App

After many years of filing papers, making copies, and underpaid teenaged labor, Kristi officially joined J.W. Allen & Co., Inc. in 2001 upon her graduation from the University of Holy Cross. Over the course of her career at JW Allen, Kristi developed extensive experience with importing and exporting products ranging from poultry, chemicals, and project cargo to wood products, textile and apparel, and offshore vessel supplies. Today, Kristi is the Chief Operations Officer as well as a Licensed Customs Broker. 

Following in her father’s and CEO’s footsteps, Kristi strongly believes in both professional and civic involvement. Not knowing how to say “NO” along with a desire to promote and advocate for trade and transportation at the local, state, national, and international level, Kristi serves in leadership positions with various trade and economic develop organizations as well as government appointments. She is an unashamed trade nerd, yet her passion is promoting investment and advocating for the growth of trade in her home state of Louisiana.

Back to Top

Nicole Bivens Collinson

Nicole Bivens Collinson was appointed NCBFAA Legislative Advisor 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 and NPR.

Collinson has over 30 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.

Back to Top

Adrienne Braumiller

Adrienne Braumiller is the founder of Braumiller Law Group PLLC and an innovative force in the international trade law arena. With more than 30 years of experience, she is widely recognized as a leading authority in Customs, import, export, foreign-trade zones, free trade agreements and ITAR compliance.

Adrienne has been involved in every aspect of import and export compliance, from developing compliance programs to creating complex valuation methodologies, conducting audits and assessments, representing clients who are under investigation, preparing and submitting voluntary disclosures, preparing and filing classification requests and licenses, analyzing whether specific transactions should be pursued, providing tailored training on specific import/export topics, addressing penalty assessments, and serving as an expert witness in a number of trade cases. She is well-versed in numerous industries, from apparel and textiles to consumer goods, electronics, industrial goods, and mining, among others.

Adrienne is well-known in the customs and trade industry and has worked collaboratively and effectively to work towards the best possible outcome, whether it be through Customs and Border Protection, the Center of Excellence and Expertise, or any other governmental agency involved in trade.

Adrienne is frequently published and contributed a chapter on U.S. antidumping, anti- subsidy and safeguards in Chambers Global Practice Guides - International Trade 2018, a guide providing expert legal commentary on important developments in the most significant jurisdictions.

In addition, Adrienne has made presentations as a distinguished lecturer for such groups as the American Bar Association, the American Association of Exporters and Importers, the International Compliance Professionals Association, the National Association of Customs Brokers and Forwarders of America, the American Conference Institute, the American Petroleum Institute, and the National Association of Foreign Trade Zones, Practicing Law Institute, and the World Customs Organization. She is also a frequent speaker at non-Association sponsored event, such as Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance and Partnering for Compliance.

Back to Top

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is the President & CEO, as well as a partner at Avalon Risk Management. As one of Avalon’s founding managers, Michael opened the company’s Boston office in 1998 as the Regional Vice President.  He has served in various positions at Avalon including Senior Vice President of Sales and, most recently, Executive Vice President before assuming his current role in August of 2021. Before his involvement with Avalon Risk Management, Michael worked for another transportation-focused insurance broker (1991-1998) as a Regional Vice President. He is a graduate of Purdue University and holds Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and Certified Risk Manager (CRM) designations.

Michael is on the Directors Circle for the Transportation Intermediary Association (TIA) and serves on their Contracts, Education and Program Committees. He is also active with the NCBFAA, FIATA, and various regional and national trade and transportation associations.  Michael is a frequent speaker at national and international industry events regarding risk management and trade and transportation issues.

Back to Top

Kim Calicott

Kim Calicott is the Export Compliance Manager at Mallory Alexander International Logistics, LLC, where she has been a key member of the team for more than 20 years. With responsibilities for export compliance, CTPAT, and ISO programs, Kim works to ensure that international shipments adhere to regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

She actively contributes to industry advancement through her involvement in organizations such as the COAC Export Modernization Working Group and the NCBFAA. As the Chair of the NCBFAA Transportation Committee, Kim is dedicated to addressing regulatory challenges and developing solutions to improve global trade processes.

She is committed to fostering industry collaboration and a compliant and competitive global logistics landscape.

Back to Top

Brandon Carroll

Brandon Carroll is currently Vice President of Global Transportation at Mallory Alexander International Logistics. During his time in the industry he has taken every opportunity to learn about all aspects of international commerce and cargo transportation. He engages regularly with the national forwarding community by attending the NYNJFFFBA’s annual dinner and round table discussion as well as serving as Vice-Chair on the NCBFAA’s NVOCC sub-committee. Brandon attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where he earned a Masters of Science in International Business. 

Back to Top

Scott Carson

Scott has close to 40 years collective experience in the international and domestic logistics services industries in Australia, having previously held finance, operational, marketing, GM and senior management positions in companies and industry associations in the states of QLD and NSW, in addition to having previously owned and operated a leading national logistics based consulting service. 

With a track record that includes significant achievements in the areas of process efficiency, supply chain innovation and the development of leading edge service solutions, Scott has been highly successful in leading organizational growth and team building in each organization that he has been involved with.

As CEO of IFCBAA, Scott steers a passionate and highly effective team that forms the single independent and influential voice for international freight forwarders and customs brokers throughout Australia. 

Scott’s qualifications and professional memberships include MBA, CPL, FIPA, ACIS and Cert IV Training and Assessment.

Back to Top

Patrick Caulfield

Patrick J. Caulfield is a Partner at GDLSK’s New York office. Patrick has worked in international trade and customs his entire professional career. Prior to law school, Patrick worked in the freight forwarding and customs brokerage industry with various firms where he gained valuable experience in dealing with U.S. Customs matters (classification, valuation, and licensing). Patrick has been at GDLSK since graduating law school and has been involved in almost all areas of the field including classification, valuation, licensing, duty-savings programs, compliance, antidumping and countervailing duty matters and customs enforcement issues including detentions and seizures related to allegations of forced labor in supply chains. Patrick also works extensively on customs broker regulations and serves as customs counsel to the JFK Airport Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder Association.

Back to Top

Colleen Clarke

Colleen Clarke is SVP of Surety Trade & Relations for Roanoke with 36 years of surety underwriting, claims and brokerage experience, and a specialization in transportation-related bonds. She held various roles throughout her career, including that of a customs claims adjuster, customs bond underwriter, division manager, marketing director and Vice President.  Colleen has helped Roanoke maintain its position as the leading transportation/customs bond provider in the nation with her dedication to the industry.

Colleen’s experience and knowledge has assisted customs brokers, importers, insurance agents and Roanoke colleagues through various customs and transportation surety bond issues. Her expertise was acknowledged when she was appointed by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Treasury to Customs & Border Protection’s Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC), serving four years from 2009-2012.

Colleen is a member of the American Association of Exporters & Importers Board of Governors and is the co-chair of their customs committee. She also participates in numerous trade associations and is the Roanoke liaison with the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association. She previously served on the Executive Committee of the Trade Support Network’s Trade Leadership Council and, as a current member of the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation’s private sector working group, collaborates to promote the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement. Colleen is past President of the International Trade Surety Association (ITSA) and currently leads the Customs Surety Coalition.

In addition, Colleen supports the Roanoke service teams with updates to processes, procedures or communications affecting clients. She is also the relationship manager on several large national bond accounts, and maintains a Certified Customs Specialist designation and insurance broker license. 

Back to Top

Ashley Craig

Ashley Craig, chair of Venable's International Trade Group, advises clients on a wide range of domestic and international regulatory compliance matters. Ashley advises both domestic and international companies on transactional matters and cross-border legal, regulatory, and policy concerns, concentrating on export controls, economic sanctions, technology transfers, customs compliance, and transportation (all modes) regulation. In addition to serving clients before executive branch agencies and congressional committees, he also represents them in shipping- and logistics-related, foreign investment, and economic regulation matters.

Back to Top

Karen Damon

Karen Damon is Vice President, Regulatory Compliance at Mohawk Global Logistics. As a licensed Customs Broker, Certified Customs Specialist and Certified Export Specialist, Karen has extensive experience and knowledge in customs brokerage and regulatory affairs, providing leadership and guidance to enhance operational compliance.       

She serves as the treasurer of the National Customs Brokers & Forwarder Association of America and a board member of the Northern Border Customs Broker’s Association. 

Back to Top

Ralph De La Rosa

Ralph De La Rosa currently serves on the board of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) and as Vice Chair of the NCBFAA Customs Committee as well as chair of the NCBFAA Trade Interruption and Resumption Subcommittee. He has been a Board member of Florida Customs Broker and Forwarder Association (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 53 years. He received a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida International University and is a licensed customs broker.

Back to Top

Lenny Feldman

Lenny Feldman is a Managing Partner and Operating Committee Member at Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A., resident in the firm’s Miami office. He is recognized internationally as a leading strategic advisor, previously co-chairing the twenty-member Customs and Border Protection’s Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee. He provides strategic recommendations and guidance directly to CBP, Homeland Security and Treasury executives on issues such as forced labor, intellectual property rights, e-commerce policy, trade partnership programs and legal/regulatory modernization.

He currently serves as General Counsel and Customs Counsel to the National Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). He also serves on the board of governors of the American Association of Exporters and Importers and as one of their delegates to the World Customs Organization Private Sector Working Group in Brussels. Previously, Lenny served as lead counsel to the Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association and as a former chairman of the World Trade Center of Miami. 

Lenny has counseled thousands of companies in creating “comply chains” while increasing efficiencies and lowering costs. Mr. Feldman innovatively and resourcefully resolves complex issues pertaining to import compliance, valuation, trade preference, country of origin, seizures, penalties, antidumping and countervailing duty, CTPAT/border security, bonded facilities, FTZs and other government agency admissibility and licensing. 

Lenny was a senior attorney with Customs Headquarters in Washington, D.C., from 1991 to 2000. He issued several hundred national guidelines, directives, and administrative rulings and was a NAFTA negotiator. After leaving Customs, Mr. Feldman served as the chief compliance officer and vice president, international, for a trade and logistics software development company responsible for content and automation pertaining to the trade laws of more than 100 countries.

Back to Top

Rob Fickeisen

Rob Fickeisen is a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist, who works as a Customs Brokerage Compliance Supervisor in the Trade & Compliance Department at UPS Supply Chain Solutions.  He has been with UPS for over 18 years, with brokerage experience on the Northern Border, in air/ocean freight, small package/express, client support, and training.

Rob is a proud and active member of the NCBFAA, serving on the Regulatory Affairs Committee, the AD/CVD Customs Sub-Committee, and the Annual Conference Committee.  He also serves on the CBP TSN eCommerce Committee.

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

Back to Top

Fany Flores-Pastor

Fany serves as the primary operational and product management driver behind Descartes’ US Customs Brokerage and International Trade Management web solutions.  Starting as a software developer over 28 years ago, Fany joined Descartes Systems Group through an acquisition in charge of multiple development teams. 

In addition, Fany is an industry thought leader and serves on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Trade Support Network (TSN) Executive Committee. Furthermore, she is a Technical Advisory Group member as well as a Trade Ambassador representing software vendors in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) projects.  Fany has participated in multiple ACE and Partner Government Agency (PGA) working groups.

She is currently a trade leader in CBP's Ocean House Bill Release working group and is also participating in COAC's ACE 2.0, De Minimis working groups as well as CBP’s eBond and Ocean AMS Streamlining working groups. She is also part of the National Association of Foreign Trade Zones (NAFTZ) and is currently participating in a few of their committees.

Back to Top

Armando Goncalvez

Mr. Armando Goncalvez brings 37 years of federal law enforcement experience and is currently the Assistant Director, Trade and Cargo Security at the Tucson Field Office. Mr. Goncalvez oversees all trade, agricultural, compliance, enforcement, and facilitation activities at eight international ports of entry in Arizona. The Tucson Field Office annually facilitates approximately $31 billion in international trade and collects an estimated $244 million in revenue.

Mr. Goncalvez began his career in 1988 with the U.S. Border Patrol, Naco, Arizona. In 1991, he joined the U.S. Customs Service, Hidalgo, Texas. He accepted a promotion to the Tucson Field Office as a program manager in 2003 and served as the (acting) Port Director, Nogales, Arizona in 2009. He later served as the Supervisory Program Manager, Trade, Tucson Field Office.

Mr. Goncalvez has extensive experience and knowledge of trade, as reflected in his work with the U.S. Customs Industry Partnership Programs. He has served as the team leader for Mexico in support of the Americas Counter Narcotics Smuggling Initiative and was involved in developing and supporting the Land Border Carrier Initiative, as well as the Business Anti-Smuggling Coalition programs. These accomplishments have greatly enhanced the performance and efficiency of trade actions within the agency.

Trade continues to receive support from Mr. Goncalvez with his attention, dedication, and guidance provided to the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, the Free and Secure Trade, the Automated Commercial Environment, and the Global Entry programs. He most recently played a critical role in the creation and implementation of the bi-national Unified Cargo Process (UCP). 

Back to Top

Jose D. Gonzalez

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.

Back to Top

Amber Hagewood

Amber Hagewood is a licensed customs broker and certified customs specialist, serving as the Senior Manager of Regulatory Compliance for FedEx Logistics. In this role, she oversees compliance with U.S. customs laws and regulations, ensuring that policies, practices, and training for FedEx Logistics’ brokerage operations meet the highest standards.

Beyond her leadership at FedEx, Amber is actively engaged in the trade community. She is the co-founder and President of the Mid-South Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association (MSCBFA) and an active member of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). She also serves on the Trade Leadership Council within the Trade Support Network (TSN) and contributes to multiple COAC working groups.

Back to Top

William Jansen

William is a Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and is currently Director of Customs Brokerage Seko Logistics. William has had over ten years of experience with US Customs Brokerage, including managing a customs brokerage & trade advisory operation of a top 50 global freight forwarder and overseeing a customs compliance program of a top 150 apparel importer. William also serves as the Chair for the National Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder's Association Antidumping & Trade Remedy Subcommittee in addition to serving on the Trade Support Network. 

Back to Top

Donna Kavanaugh

Donna Kavanaugh is a Compliance Manger at A. N. Deringer, Inc., with a focus on U.S. export laws and regulations.  She has been a part of the Deringer team for over 26 years and she is heavily involved in the preparation of export training and risk management programs for Deringer. 

Donna obtained her individual Customhouse broker license in 1996, and she is also a Certified US Export Compliance Officer, Certified Customs Specialist and a Certified Export Specialist.  She is the Chair of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) Export Compliance Subcommittee and actively participates in many working groups on this committee, including being the lead for the Vehicle Export Working Group. 

Back to Top

Patrice Lafayette

Patrice Lafayette is the Regional Vice President of the Western Region and oversees both operations and sales in our Long Beach and San Francisco offices.  She began her career at Roanoke Insurance Group in 2007 and has held various positions, including managing a large book of business and working with our high profile clients bringing invaluable expertise in cultivating and managing client relations.  She has over 20 years of insurance and financial services experience with the last 19 years focused on the international trade community. 

Known for her insurance and international trade experience, Patrice is a well-respected advisor on risk management of insurance and bonds for the international trade community.  She frequently speaks at various local and national transportation association conferences, as well as conducts training workshops to help keep clients and the industry at large informed on the various changes taking place in logistics and transportation and the solutions available to respond to these changes.

Prior to joining Roanoke, Patrice worked for Underhill Insurance Agency in Woodland Hills, CA, gaining knowledge and expertise in Business and personal lines Insurance as well as life and health insurance.  Underhill Insurance is a family owned business that has been in operations for almost 70 years.

Patrice is a licensed insurance broker in both Property and Casualty and Life and Health in various states, and a graduate of California State University, Northridge where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Foreign Trade Association (FTA) and is also an active participant in numerous other West Coast trade associations.  She is a past board member of Women in International Trade Orange County.  In 2023, Patrice was recognized by Women We Admire as the top 50 women leaders in Los Angeles.

Back to Top

Victoria Lane

Victoria oversees corporate compliance for L.E. Coppersmith LLC/Coppersmith Global Logistics and its’ 9 branch offices nationwide. This includes compliance regarding Customs and Border Protection Regulations (import/customs broker) as well as export and corporate.

Victoria has been active in the International Trade Industry for over 40 years and a licensed customs broker since 1996, as well as a Certified Customs Specialist through the National Customs Broker & Forwarder Association of America (NCBFAA).  She is currently a Managing Director USA within the IFCBA (International Foreign Customs Brokers Association) representing the NCBFAA. 

Victoria has previously served as President and Chairwomen of the Pacific Coast Council, NCBFAA Vice President, NCBFAA Secretary, and NCBFAA Area 6 Board representative.

Back to Top

Sandy Langford-Coty

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 a member of the 17th Term of the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) and is active within US Customs and Border Protection’s Trade Support Network. In addition. Sandy also has served as 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).

In May 2024, Sandy was honored with the Marjorie M. Shostak Distinguished Service Award by the Foreign Trade Association during World Trade Week.

Sandy is a Licensed Customs Broker and a Certified Customs Specialist with a bachelor’s degree in Resource Economics from the University of Massachusetts.

Back to Top

Tom Lloyd

Tom Lloyd serves as the Vice President of Customer Relations & Data Services for Trade Tech. His career in the global ocean transportation industry spans forty years. He has been with Trade Tech for 15 years for a total of 23 years in logistics technology. Prior to that, Lloyd held various executive-level sales and management positions on the ocean carrier side of the industry.

Lloyd is a Licensed Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Practitioner (No. 1348), he represents Trade Tech at CESAC (Customs Electronic Systems Action Committee where he serves on the NVOCC Committee. He is a member of the Trade Support Network (TSN). 

Lloyd has traveled extensively, both domestically and abroad, and was an industry expert on the Committee to Review the Shipping Act of 1984 in Washington, D.C.

Lloyd is an alumnus of Bucknell University where he earned a B.A. in Economics.  

Back to Top

Stephen McDermott

Stephen McDermott is the Vice President and Chief Learning Officer at TraversEd, a leader in education for global trade professionals. With over 20 years of experience in corporate training and post-secondary education, Stephen is dedicated to equipping logistics professionals with the skills they need to excel in the global supply chain.

TraversEd, in partnership with the NCBFAA Education Institute (NEI), offers the globally recognized FIATA Diploma in the U.S., a certification that sets professionals apart in the logistics industry. The expert-designed online courses provide essential competencies and are accredited by NEI, with eligibility for CBP continuing education credits.

Stephen also serves as Director of Education for CIFFA and chairs the FIATA Logistics Institute (FLI), where he ensures the highest standards for the FIATA Diploma. His leadership is focused on advancing the careers of logistics professionals through world-class education.

Back to Top

Daniel Meylor

Daniel Meylor began his career in 1971 as a messenger for a Customs Broker at the Los Angeles International Airport. He joined Carmichael International Service in 1996 and is now the Director, Customs Administration and Compliance. Dan is active in the Trade Community. He is currently the area 9 member of the NCBFAA Customs Committee and serves on several other NCBFAA Committees. He is a past President of the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Assoc. and still co-chairs the Seaport CBP Committee for the LACBFFA. Dan is also the co-Chair of the Import Committee of the Pacific Coast Council of Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association, Inc. Dan has participated in several COAC working groups and he is an active member of several other trade organizations, both local and national.

Back to Top

Amy Morgan

Amy Morgan is the Vice President and Head of Trade Compliance at Altana. She leads global trade and compliance solutions for the enterprise and public sector alike, serving customers like Boston Scientific, L.L.Bean, Maersk, US Customs and Border Protection, and the UK Department of Business and Trade. Amy is a Licensed US Customs Broker with over two decades of experience working in international trade and compliance, and she regularly contributes her industry expertise at events like the Gartner Supply Chain Xpo, TPM, the CBP Trade Facilitation and Cargo Security Summit, AAEI Annual Conference, and many others. Prior to Altana, Amy served as Vice President, Cross-Border at Avalara where she was responsible for developing technology solutions to automate landed cost calculation and cross-border tax compliance. Amy began her career managing global trade and customs compliance operations for industry giants Amazon, Costco Wholesale, Nordstrom, and Microsoft, and is a Licensed US Customs Broker. Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government and a Graduate Certificate in Global Trade & Transportation Logistics Studies from the University of Washington.

Back to Top

Donna Mullins

In June 2020, Donna opened the USA offices of Kale Info Solutions, a division of Kale Logistics Solutions based in India.  Kale is a next-gen solutions provider with in-depth domain knowledge and technical expertise.  Kale has created a suite of comprehensive IT enterprise systems, including UPLIFT, our Airport Community System single window platform.  Kale’s community and enterprise solutions cater to a wide network of Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) who have strengthened and improved their operational and business capabilities globally. Donna still serves as President and CEO of Mullins International Solutions, LLC and Mullins International Academy.

Prior to starting Mullins International Solutions, a compliance training and consulting firm for the international trade industry, Donna served as Branch Manager for the Atlanta office of CV International.  Prior to joining CVI, Donna was President and CEO of Alpha Sun International an independent freight forwarder and customs broker. She had the company for 7 years before merging. In March 2010, Donna merged her company, Alpha Sun International, Inc in with CVI. While owning Alpha Sun International, Donna led the group through C-TPAT certification and assisted many customers in obtaining C-TPAT certification.

Donna has served in the international transportation community since 1982, where she began as an importer of wholesale merchandise. Upon leaving the import side of the trade, Donna started her career in the brokerage and transportation arena.

Donna’s list of nationally recognized service positions is the leading indicator of why MIS is the choice in compliance training.  These affiliations have put her in the position to help set the course of the logistics industry.  Because she is there on a national level communicating the policy changes and working hand in hand with CBP, BIS, FMC, TSA and others, she is well versed in the regulations and the other government agencies that can be involved in what seems like the most straightforward of transactions but in fact is very complicated.

In 1990 she received her US Treasury Customs Brokers License. Donna also holds a Certified Customs Specialist and Certified Export Specialist accreditation from the NCBFAA Educational Institute and is a Certified Logistics Technician by MSSC.

Ms. Mullins has held various volunteer positions including President and Chair of the AIFBA (Atlanta International Forwarders and Brokers Association); President and Chair of the AACA (Atlanta Air Cargo Association); Board of Director for the AMA (Atlanta Maritime Association); and currently serves as the Air Freight Subcommittee Committee Chair for the NCBFAA Transportation Committee and she was most recently NCBFAA Area 4 Director for eight years. Donna is the current chair for the Airport Congestion Committee and a previous board member of the AfA (Airforwarders Association), the TCA (Transportation Club of Atlanta) and the World Trade Center Atlanta. 

Donna has held an Adjunct Professor position with Clayton State University where she was involved in the Logistics and Supply Chain Management and teaches the ABC’s of Customs Brokerage as well as other international classes and courses.  She also serves on the Advisory Board for the Logistics and Supply Chain Business of Collage at Clayton State University and Atlanta Technical College.

Back to Top

Jerrod Nutt

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.

Back to Top

Jenette Prince

Jenette Prince, Vice President, Trade Control – Import & Export, Kuehne + Nagel, Inc. is a licensed U.S. Customs Broker, Master Customs Specialist, and Certified Export Specialist. She began her career in 1993 at Expeditors in San Francisco as an entry writer, quickly advancing to a supervisory role. In 1998, she joined Kuehne + Nagel, Inc., where she has held various positions across the United States.

In San Francisco, Jenette served as Customs Brokerage Supervisor, Manager, West Coast Regional Customs Brokerage Manager, and Import Manager for the local branch. In 2007, she was promoted to the corporate office in Jersey City, NJ, where she held roles including East Coast Regional Customs Brokerage Manager and Strategic Accounts Manager and was responsible for ACE Implementation and Training.

In 2015, upon assuming her current role as Director of U.S. Trade Control – Import, Jenette relocated to Tampa, FL, where she led Kuehne + Nagel Inc.’s U.S. Trade Control - Import Team. She also led the Automated Invoice Interface Working Group with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Trade Support Network.

Jenette is actively involved with the National Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association, serving on the Legislative Committee, Transportation – Air Freight Subcommittee, and as Chair for both the Political Action Committee and the NEI’s Content Committee. She is currently the Chairwoman of the Florida Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association (FCBF), a leading trade association for industry professionals in the import and export community. She is also involved with Organization of Women in International Trade and CESAC.

Jenette recently graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s in Legal Studies. During her studies, she served as President of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Treasurer of the Student Justice Association. She plans to begin law school in the near future.

Back to Top

Ryan Raynak

Ryan is a licensed Customs Broker, Certified Customs Specialist and Managing Member of HG Enterprises LLC, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  He has 20 years of industry experience, which began with his time at a German Freight Forwarder but he quickly found that his interest lied in Customs work.  As part of a small Brokerage team, Ryan is involved in all facets of day-to-day operations of the business and frequently provides consulting services to his clients nationwide and in Germany on a range of import related topics. 

Ryan is also a recent addition to the NCBFAA Customs Committee and a member of the Annual Conference Content Committee.

Back to Top

Rich Roche

Rich Roche has worked in the NVOCC field for the last 30 years in Syracuse NY where he is currently 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 is currently serving a three-year term on the National Shippers Advisory Committee to the FMC.

Back to Top

Kim Roebke

Kim Roebke is the Director of Regulatory and Compliance at RIM logistics, ltd., where she has been an invaluable team member for 10+ years. With 25 years of experience in the logistics and customs industry, Kim holds the esteemed titles of Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist and is a member of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarder Association of America (NCBFAA), Customs Committee.  Over the course of her career, she has demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead and mentor, overseeing the Chicago Branch’s Brokerage and Compliance teams with a strategic focus on both operational excellence and regulatory integrity. Today, Kim leads the Corporate Compliance team at RIM, where her influence extends across the organization, ensuring that regulatory adherence is not only maintained but continuously improved.

Back to Top

Bruce Rodgers

Bruce Rodgers has been an active participant on the Board of Directors for CIFFA Corp (formerly the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association) since 2009 and became Executive Director in October 2018. Bruce has several years of senior executive experience with several large transportation organizations, where he successfully bolstered revenue and maximized profitability by combining his high level of business acumen, strong leadership and a continued focus on results. Bruce is well-known for his high level of commitment to anything he becomes involved in, strategic approach, mastery in considering multiple perspectives and solving problems, and ability to connect and collaborate with others at all levels.

Bruce also believes in giving back to the communities he’s involved in, and for much of his career has served on the Board of Directors of various industry associations including the Toronto Transportation Club and Canadian Courier & Logistics Association.

Back to Top

Gabriel Rodriguez

Gabriel Rodriguez is the President of A Customs Brokerage, a Cargo Concierge® company founded over 40 years ago. ACB is an international customs brokerage and logistics management company with a network of agents internationally. The company specializes in global transportation, warehousing, customs brokerage, and logistics solutions for businesses worldwide. A licensed US Customs Broker for over 20 years, Gabriel has brought his expertise in sales, customer service and compliance to the company as it continues to grow and expand.

Former President for the Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association, area 4 representative for the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Associations, as well as former Chair for the Miami Dade Beacon Council Trade and Logistics Committee, Gabriel is dedicated to building the talent in our industry, connecting innovative LogiTech companies with established organizations and raising the collaboration within Florida and the International Trade community.

In September of 2021, Gabriel was named to the Federal Maritime Commission, National Shipper Advisory Committee (NSAC). The Committee is comprised of 24 members, that will advise the Commission on policies relating to the competitiveness, reliability, integrity, and fairness of the international ocean freight delivery system. Gabriel hopes to use this role to highlight the perspective of smaller businesses within the reality of our current supply chain and advocate for tangible solutions.

Back to Top

Neto Roser

Neto Roser began his career in the customs broker industry in the family business in 1974… He became a licensed broker in 1977. He started his own business in 1986 and was the first Customs Broker in the Laredo Customs District and second broker along the Southern Border to be approved for Automated Broker Interface (ABI) the same year.  He merged his company with his partner, John F Cowen in 1997 to form Roser and J Cowen Logistical Services Ltd… He has been Past President (8 terms) of the Brownsville Licensed Brokers Association.  He is a Past Vice President of the Texas Brokers Conference Association… He is a Past Director of the National Customs Brokers Forwarders Association of America representing Area 8 (Southern Border).  He is currently on the NCBFAA Customs Committee representing Area 8 and on the Trade Support Network (TSN) Release Sub Committee, Business Resumption Sub Committee, the Multi Modal Manifest Sub Committee, National Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) Sub Committee and National Nominating Committee…

He was selected to participate in three Special Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) Work Groups on the Role of the Broker, Revenue Modernization and currently on the Work Outages Group….

He also runs an underground group called the Border Broker Brothers (the BBB’s), which assists Southern Border Brokers on common issues within their areas.

Neto and his wife, Gail, reside in Harlingen Texas. Meghan Roser has returned from Indiana to work with Roser & J Cowen Logistical Services Ltd in their Hidalgo office. He and Gail are grandparents to Mason James Wheeler and Colton Thomas Wheeler… He and Meghan graduated from Saint Joseph’s College in Rensselaer Indiana ’74, Meghan class of ’05… 

He retired after 20 years coaching the Junior Varsity Boys and Junior Varsity Girls Basketball at Saint Joseph Academy (alma mater) in Brownsville…

is currently back playing on the tennis circuit….

Back to Top

Meghan Roser

I am a graduate of Saint Joseph's College '05 in Rensselaer, Indiana (the same College as my Dad, Neto Roser, '74). I am a seasoned professional with over 13 years of experience in the marble and granite industry, honing my skills at Cathedral Marble & Granite in Whitestown, IN. In 2019, I made the decision to return home and contribute to our family business.

One of my proudest accomplishments was passing the Custom's Broker exam in October of 2023, showcasing my dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. Currently serving as the secretary of the Brownsville Licensed Customs Broker Association, I am deeply involved in shaping the future of our industry.

Having previously held the position of secretary for two years at the Mid-Valley Broker Association, I have a proven track record of organizational excellence and leadership. My commitment to detail and efficiency sets me apart in all that I do.

My greatest joy comes from being a loving and devoted parent to two wonderful children, Mason James and Colton Thomas.

Back to Top

Craig Seelig

Craig Seelig joined Cargowise in February of 2010 to manage Cargowise’s US Customs products. Craig has over 35 years of experience in the software industry with executive level responsibilities in Information Technology, customer service, and program management.  Craig is a Trade Ambassador with the Trade Support Network (TSN) and also a member of the Technical Advisory Group of the TSN.  Craig is also a member of the of 17^th term of COAC. 

Prior to WiseTech Global, Craig was Vice President of IT, Americas at OHL International and Vice President of Software Development at Theta Systems, Inc. 

Back to Top

Joanne Slapinski

Joanne has over 30 years of industry experience, including both Surety and Supply Chain management. She helped start up Avalon Risk Management, a specialty surety brokerage over 25 years ago, overseeing Underwriting, Claims and Subrogation. She also spent 10 years managing import compliance for large and mid-size shippers before returning to the surety side with International Bond & Marine, applying her broad appreciation for the transportation industry.

Back to Top

Christine Sliwinski

Christine Sliwinski currently serves as a Customs Brokerage (CHB) Responsible Supervision and Control Manager at Maersk Customs Services USA, Inc. With over 30 years in the industry, she possesses extensive expertise in customs, imports, exports, regulatory compliance, and PGA matters.

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

Christine is a Licensed Customs Broker and CCS Certified, Christine's commitment to regulatory compliance underscores her professional dedication and leadership in the field.

Back to Top

Merit Tremper

Merit-Elizabeth Tremper has been in the Transportation and Logistics industry for more than 40 years. She received her U.S. Customs Brokers License in 1997 and prides herself as being a “Compliance Geek.”

Merit currently holds the position of Logistics SubCommittee Chair to the Transportation Committee.

Merit previously served as the Area 5 Representative to the NCBFAA Transportation Committee and is the liaison to CESAC. Merit also serves on the NEI Committee, Drawback Committee and contributes her time and expertise whenever needed.

Merit serves the Chicago Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association CCBFA) as a Director and has held that position since 2003. She serves on the Education Committee, Scholarship Committee, Membership Committee, the Website Committee, and enjoys coordinating training seminars in Chicago that help train our local Industry.

Merit lives in San Tan Valley, Arizona and is the proud mother of two.

Back to Top

Kevin Valsi

Kevin Valsi is the Co-Founder and CEO of OpenTrack, the leading end-to-end container visibility software for many of the largest global ocean freight forwarders, NVOCCs, BCOs, drayage and intermodal trucking companies. Kevin, along with Co-Founder, CTO Martin Hendleman (prev. Co-Founder, Cargomatic) have been building logistics technology together for over a decade.

He holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a B.A. from the University of Maryland, where he was awarded the United States Department of Homeland Security Scholarship.

Back to Top

Pat Vangtan

Pat Vangtan is the Director of Customs Brokerage Operations at Western Overseas Corporation. She is a licensed customs broker and a Certified Customs Specialist. In this capacity, she oversees customs operational excellence, enhances operational processes, and promotes continuous development and standardization.

Ms. Vangtan previously served as President of the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association (LACBFFA) and currently chairs its board. Furthermore, she is the Chair of the PGA Committee and the Program Chair for WESCCON within the Pacific Coast Council PCC). Additionally, she serves as the alternate Area 9 representative on the Customs Committee of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association (NCBFAA). She was honored to be invited by CBP to participate and graduate from the inaugural U.S. Customs and Border Protection Citizen Academy in 2017.

Back to Top

Rene Vidal Rodríguez

Lic. Rene Vidal Rodríguez is a distinguished customs broker with extensive expertise in international trade and cross-border relations. Born in Tucson, AZ, on October 9, 1981, he holds dual citizenship in both the United States and Mexico, providing him with a unique perspective on transnational commerce.

Rene earned his Bachelor's degree from the University of San Diego in 2005 and went on to complete a Master's in Business Administration by 2009. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his career in international trade and customs brokerage.

Currently serving as the Director of Corporativo Vidal Asociados CVA SC since 2005, Rene has demonstrated leadership and innovation in the field. His professional journey includes significant roles such as President of the Mexican Customs Brokers Association in Nogales, Sonora (2018-2021), and Vice President for Transfrontier Issues at CAAAREM (2021-2023). He is currently involved with the International Relationships Commission at CAAAREM (2023-2025).

In 2015, Rene obtained his Mexican Customs Broker Patente 1703, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His commitment to fostering international relationships and enhancing the efficiency of cross-border trade makes him a sought-after speaker and authority in the industry.

Back to Top

Kimberly Wakeman

Kimberly Wakeman is Vice President of Regional Operations & Government Affairs at Avalon Risk Management.  She is a licensed Insurance Broker, a Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS).  When Kimberly joined the company in 2018, she served as the Divisional Vice President for Avalon’s Southern Division, before assuming her current role in 2021. Kimberly has an extensive background in the global logistics industry, spending the last 30 years working with some of the largest logistics companies. She has strong supply chain experience with deep knowledge and understanding of US Customs, FTZ, domestic and global logistics, and distribution services and strategies. 

Kimberly helps Avalon achieve continuous operational excellence by executing reliable business strategies, which lead to increased revenue and decreased risk and expense.  She monitors current events for regulatory changes and works with federal agencies and international trade associations concerning modifications that impact the global logistics industry and Avalon’s products. Kimberly is a member of various industry associations such as Trade Supply Network, NCBFAA, ICPA, CSCMP, Beacon Council, and AWESOME. She currently is the secretary for the International Trade Surety Association (ITSA).

When Kimberly isn’t working, she loves traveling, shopping, and enjoying sporting events, especially baseball with her family. Oh, and we can’t forget her love for all things sparkly!

Back to Top

Michael Webber

Mr. Webber has spent more than thirty years in airport and air cargo marketing, as well as three years in international trade and banking. He began his aviation career leading the marketing departments of two U.S. airport operators.

Webber has provided cargo consulting to the largest U.S. international cargo gateways, including those in Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and New York, as well as dozens of smaller airports. International work has included assignments in India, Thailand and the People’s Republic of China in Asia, Kenya and Cape Verde in Africa, Jordan and Abu Dhabi in the Middle East, as well as Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Panama in Latin America. He recently completed multiple assignments focusing on Central Asia for the World Bank.

Webber is part of the leadership of ACI-NA’s Air Cargo Committee and of the Airport Congestion Task Force of the Airforwarders Association (AfA). Webber co-authored a chapter on air cargo’s role in economic development for a World Bank publication and is currently co-authoring an update to cargo facilities planning guidelines for the Transportation Research Board’s Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP).

Back to Top

Cynthia Whittenburg

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 12 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. Over the course of her 32+ year career at U.S. Customs and CBP, she was blessed with being able to share her knowledge in the trade realm, visiting several nations in Central America and Africa. She is a licensed customs broker and is also 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. She is a recent past president of the Executive Women in Government 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.

Back to Top

Federico "Kiko" Zuniga

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 in charge of Business Development for the Educational Institute at the NCBFAA (The National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America).  Zuniga served as Executive Director of the Educational Institute from 2011 thru 2022. 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) a position he held for four years.  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.
• Past board member of The Boys & Girls Club of Laredo.  
• Past 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

Back to Top