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2026 NCBFAA Annual Conference

JW Marriott San Antonio
Hill Country Resort & Spa

NEI logo

2026 NCBFAA Annual Conference Schedule

── ✧ Diamond Sponsors ✧ ──

Avalon Logo

Cervo AI Logo

OpenTrack-logo

Reform-Logo

Program Sponsored by: 

EPIC IB&C Logo &   Tokio Marine HCC Logo

 

NCBFAA Prestigious 2026 Keynote Speakers  

Lauren DiBella, Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission
Hon. Leo M. Gordon, Senior Judge, United States Court of International Trade

 

To view full day's schedule, click on day/date lines below!
Printable Program Summary Available Here

 


Pre-Conference Meetings:

Friday, April 10th

2:30 - 5:00 PM
Larkspur & Indian Paintbrush
NEI Meeting
5:30 - 8:00 PM
Grand Ballroom K
APN Meeting (Regular Members Only)
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Saturday, April 11th

8:00 - 9:00 AM
Grand Ballroom K-L
RAC (Regular Members Only)
9:00 - 11:30 AM
Grand Ballroom K-L
Transportation Committee (Regular Members Only)
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Grand Ballroom K-L
Customs Committee (Regular Members Only)
2:00 - 5:30 PM
Grand Ballroom K-L
Board of Directors (Regular Members Only)
6:00 - 7:00 PM
Greenhouse Garden Lawn
Sponsor Appreciation Reception (Invitation Only; All Sponsors & Their Invited Guests)

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Conference Meetings:

Sunday April 12th

Program Sponsored by: 
EPIC IB&C Logo &   Tokio Marine HCC Logo
8:15 - 8:45 AMGolf Tournament Registration
 Co-Sponsored by:
 
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 
TPC San Antonio
Golf Tournament
(Additional cost - $125 [Regular Member discounted rate]; $150 [General registration rate])
 Co-Sponsored by:
2026 NCBFAA Golf Flyer

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
San Antonio Riverwalk & Alamo Tour
(Additional cost - $75)
*Space limited; subject to cancellation if minimum numbers not met
 Experience the essence of San Antonio in a thrilling adventure that includes cruising and strolling. Glide through the city on a private Go Rio River barge cruise, uncovering its history with a guided narration. Afterwards, head on over to visit the iconic Alamo, steeped in Texas history. Here guests will get a narrated tour and interpretation of the battle, before heading inside and experience the complex themselves. This is the best opportunity to experience the number one and number two most visited attractions in Texas, The Alamo and The Riverwalk.
1:00 - 8:00 PM
Registration Desk
(Ballroom level Corridor)
NCBFAA Registration Desk/Information Center
 Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine Brokerage, Ltd.
2:00 - 5:00 PM 
Ventana Cabana (Pool Area)
NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering
2026 Annual Conference Hospitality Gathering

Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group
6:00 - 7:00 PM 
Greenhouse Garden Lawn
Stewart B. Hauser First-Timer Reception (by Invitation Only)

Conference "First Timer" attendees are introduced to NCBFAA Officers, Board of Directors, Counsel, Affiliated Association Presidents, Annual Conference Committee, and Media. Please extend a very warm welcome to all "First Timer" attendees identified by the yellow ribbon on their badge.
 Sponsored by: Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
7:00 - 8:00 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Grand Opening of the Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Registrants can visit with this year’s exhibitors, as well as enjoy refreshments.
 Sponsored by: Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
8:00 - 9:00 PM
Event Lawn 1
Welcome Reception (Dinner Included; Attire is Business Casual)
 After the Exhibitor MarketPlace closes, everyone will then join the “Welcome Reception” for dinner. This gathering of old friends and colleagues is the perfect opportunity to make new friends and acquaintances as NCBFAA welcomes all registrants to its 2026 Annual Conference.
 Sponsored by: Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
9:00 - 11:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Bingo
 Join your friends and colleagues after the Welcome Reception for a friendly game of Bingo. The winner will receive a gift card and all who attend will be provided with one additional drink ticket to be used during the game. To ensure proper accommodations for all players, please indicate during the registration process if you plan to participate in this event.
 Sponsored by:   Cervo AI Logo Cervo AI

 

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Monday, April 13th

Program Sponsored by: 
EPIC IB&C Logo &   Tokio Marine HCC Logo
6:00 - 7:00 AM
Morning Yoga
 
Start your conference day centered, refreshed, and ready.
Join Raft for an all-levels yoga session designed to energize you before diving into key sessions. Guided by Megan Serratore, Raft’s Sales Operations Manager and certified yoga instructor, you’ll reset your mind and body while adding the same kind of flow and focus that Raft brings to your business operations through AI automation. Yoga mats provided. Just bring a towel, a water bottle, and an open mind. Sign up here!
 Sponsored by:  Raft
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Registration Desk
(Ballroom level Foyer)
NCBFAA Registration Desk/Information Center
 Sponsored by:  International Bond & Marine Brokerage, Ltd.
7:30 - 9:30 AM
Coffee Bar
Grand Foyer
2026 Annual Conference Coffee Bar


Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group
7:30 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Exhibitor MarketPlace Reopens
7:30 - 9:30 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 (Tables will be reserved for speakers)
7:30 - 9:30 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
8:30 - 11:00 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
NCBFAA 2026 Annual Meeting
 All Regular Members are requested to attend this once-a-year event, which includes Officer, Counsel, and Committee reports.
 Presiding: Jose D. Gonzalez, NCBFAA President; President, Jose D. Gonzalez CHB
 (Regular Members Only, Please)
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Break in the Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Foyer

Emotional Support Animals with Raft

 
Unwind, smile, and reset your afternoon with Raft’s favorite friends.
Between the exciting conference sessions, take a break filled with wagging tails and puppy energy. Stop by, meet some adorable pups, and let a few minutes of joy refresh your spirit for the rest of the day. The puppies come from an ethical provider, and this playtime helps support their healthy socialization.
 Sponsored by: Raft
12:00 - 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Lunch
 Sponsored by: Affiliated Presidents Network (APN)
 Keynote Speaker: Lauren DiBella, Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission
 Introduction:  
 NCBFAA 2026 Scholarship Presentations
 Winner:  Eveling Gutierrez, CEVA Logistics
Introduced by: Steven Powell, NCBFAA Annual Conference Chair; Vice President, C.H. Powell Company
Presented by: Karen Rzeszutko, President, Roanoke Insurance Group
Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group
 Winner: Robert Whitley, Peter Wittwer North America Inc.
Introduced by: Steven Powell, NCBFAA Annual Conference Chair; Vice President, C.H. Powell Company
Presented by: Damien Stile, CEO, Alba Wheels Up International, Inc.
Sponsored by: Alba Wheels Up International, Inc.
 NCBFAA CCS Award Presentation
 Winner: Matthew Huth, FedEx Logistics
Introduced by: Cynthia Whittenburg, NEI Executive Vice President, NCBFAA
Presented by: Timothy Josupait, Regional Sales Manager, CargoWise
Sponsored by: CargoWise
 NCBFAA CES Award Presentation
 Winner: Seth Malvoisin, GHY USA Inc.
Introduced by: Cynthia Whittenburg, Executive Vice President, NCBFAA Educational Institute (NEI)
Presented by: LaDonna Blackwell, Vice President, Southern Region, Avalon Risk Management
Sponsored by: Avalon Logo Avalon Risk Management
1:30 - 2:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Dessert in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
2:30 - 4:30 PMExhibitor MarketPlace Closes (Reopens at 4:30 PM)
2:30 - 3:15PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
CBP Leadership Chat: EAC Susan Thomas & EAC Diane Sabatino
 Attendees will hear directly from CBP EAC Susan Thomas and EAC Diane Sabatino regarding the agency’s regulatory priorities, key areas of focus, emerging risks, and compliance expectations for brokers and their clients. 
 Panelists:

Diane Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of the Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
Susan Thomas, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of the Office of Trade, U.S. Customs and Border Protection   
 Moderator:

Karen Damon, Vice President, Regulatory Compliance, Mohawk Global
3:15 - 4:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
FDA
  
 Speaker:
4:00 - 4:30 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
DEA Regulatory Overview
 
DEA Special Agent Joshua Craven and Diversion Investigator Leticia Neris will review current regulatory requirements, as well as risk factors and indicators brokers should watch for.
 Panelists:

Diversion Investigator Leticia Neris
Special Agent Joshua Craven 
 Moderator:

Rob Fickeisen, UPS Supply Chain Solutions
4:30 - 5:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
TBD
 
 
 Panelists:
 Moderator:
4:30 - 6:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Exhibitor MarketPlace Reopens
4:30 - 6:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering in Exhibitor MarketPlace

Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group
5:00 PMClosing Announcements
6:45 - 9:30 PMDinner on Your Own
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Tuesday, April 14th

Program Sponsored by: 
EPIC IB&C Logo &   Tokio Marine HCC Logo
6:00 - 7:00 AM
Morning Yoga
 
Start your conference day centered, refreshed, and ready.
Join Raft for an all-levels yoga session designed to energize you before diving into key sessions. Guided by Megan Serratore, Raft’s Sales Operations Manager and certified yoga instructor, you’ll reset your mind and body while adding the same kind of flow and focus that Raft brings to your business operations through AI automation. Yoga mats provided. Just bring a towel, a water bottle, and an open mind. Sign up here!
 Sponsored by: Raft
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Registration Desk
(Ballroom level Foyer)
NCBFAA Registration Desk/Information Center
 Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine Brokerage, Ltd.
7:00 - 8:00 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 (Tables will be reserved for speakers)
7:00 - 9:00 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Breakfast Buffet in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: OpenTrack-logo  OpenTrack Inc.
7:00 - 9:00 AM
Coffee Bar
Grand Foyer
2026 Annual Conference Coffee Bar


Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group
8:00 - 8:30 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
A Freewheeling Conversation with APHIS
 Join APHIS representatives Jon Daniels and Jacob McDowell for "A Freewheeling Conversation with APHIS," an interactive discussion on timely and relevant topics for Brokers and their clients, led by Adam Lees.
 Panelists:

Jacob McDowell, MRP, APHIS
Jon Daniels, MRP, APHIS
 Moderator: 

Adam Lees, Alba Wheels Up International, LLC
8:30 - 9:00 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Your IT Backlog isn't Getting Shorter: How to Find Relief with Small Wins in Compliance-Heavy Workflows
Diamond Sponsor Session:
OpenTrack-logo
Every team has a list of manual workflows that are too small to justify an IT project but too painful to keep doing by hand. This session will explore how no-code platforms can help tackle exactly those problems. No deep technical knowledge required, no six-month implementation, no massive budget. Just a practical look at what's possible right now, and how you can start small and prove value fast.
 Panelists:
 Moderator:
9:00 - 10:00 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
CBP Refund & Broker Enforcement
 CBP Office of Trade leadership will discuss updates regarding CBP’s refund process and Broker Enforcement priorities.
 Panelists: 

Brandon Lord, Executive Director, Trade Programs, U.S. Customs & Border Protection, Office of Trade
Shari McCann – Director, Commercial Operations, Revenue and Entry Division, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade
C. Shane Campbell, Acting Executive Director, Cargo and Conveyance Security, U.S. Customs & Border Protection, Office of Trade
 Moderator: 

Mary Jo Muoio, Director, Customs and Trade Programs and Product, Amazon Customs & Trade
Sandy Coty, Director of Operational Development, A.N. Deringer, Inc
10:00 - 10:30 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Tariffs and Exposure for Today's Customs Broker: Leveraging E&O, T&Cs and POAs

Customs brokers and logistics service providers are facing unprecedented levels of legal complexity, financial exposure, and operational risk. Classification, value and origin "engineering" can quickly escalate to enforcement actions and costly claims and litigation against importers leaving the broker in a precarious position.
This panel will examine the critical role that Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, properly structured Terms & Conditions of Service, and well-defined Powers of Attorney play in protecting brokerage firms and their clients.

 Panelists: 

Karen Rzeszutko, President & CEO, Roanoke Insurance Group 
Lenny Feldman, Managing Partner, Operating Committee, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
 Moderator: 

Patrice Lafayette, Regional Vice President, Roanoke Insurance Group Inc
10:30 - 11:00 AM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Break in the Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: OpenTrack-logo  OpenTrack Inc.
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
From Pilot to Production: How to Deploy AI Without Breaking Ops
Diamond Sponsor Session:
Cervo AI Logo
You've seen the demos. Maybe you've even run a pilot. The difference between pilots that stall and deployments that scale almost always comes down to the same handful of decisions. In this session, Cervo AI co-founder Thomas Jiang sits down with customs broker Raul S. Villarreal to unpack what real deployment actually looks like on the brokerage floor. Drawing on implementations ranging from 2-person brokerages to Top-5 global forwarders, Thomas and Raul walk through the most important decisions: where to start, how to scale without breaking what's working, and how to bring your team along for the ride.
 Panelists:

Thomas Jiang, co-founder & Co-CEO, Cervo
Raul S. Villarreal, PG Customs Brokers
 Moderator:
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
CPSC, Are You and Your Clients Ready for July 8th?
 Join CPSC eFiling Specialist Kat Rickerson for a lively and timely discussion on the mandatory eFiling requirements for CPSC certificate of compliance data.  Are you scared yet?  You should be!
 Panelist:

eFiling Specialist Kat Rickerson
 Moderator:

Monica DeMars, C.H. Robinson International, Inc.
12:00 - 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Luncheon in Exhibitor Marketplace
 Sponsored by: OpenTrack-logo  OpenTrack Inc.
12:00 - 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom Q-S
Legislative Committee Meeting (Lunch Provided)
 Have you ever had an interest in government? Have you ever wondered how a bill is passed into law? Do you have an interest in helping to get laws changed in the industry? If so, the Legislative Committee may be right for you! The NCBFFA Legislative Committee is actively seeking new members to join, and we are looking for dedicated individuals that are committed to the cause and assist with issues pertaining to our industry. This group is committed to helping shape the future of our industry! Please stop by if you are interested during lunch on Tuesday.
1:30 - 5:30 PM 
Grand Ballroom P
ACE Portal Training Sessions
 Attention ACE Portal Users
 Do you use the ACE Portal and find its functionality challenging? If so, then you should participate in one of the eight ACE Portal Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14th, and Wednesday, April 15th, these 30-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask CBP Portal experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the Portal. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices.
 Trainers:

Bianca Carr, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Ruben Barberena, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
1:30 - 5:30 PM 
 Grand Ballroom N
APHIS Import Tools Training Sessions
 
Do your clients import agricultural commodities or animal products regulated by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)? Do you struggle to determine what documentation and permits apply to imported shipments?  Are you unsure how to use the APHIS on-line tools, ACIR (Agricultural Commodities Import Requirements) and VSPA (Veterinary Services Permitting Assistant)? 
 
If so, then you should participate in one of the eight ACIR and VSPA Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14th, and Wednesday, April 15th, these 45-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask APHIS experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the ACIR and VSPA tools. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices.
 Trainers:

Chloe Campbell, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Jeremy Whisenhunt, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 
1:30 - 2:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Build It Yourself: How Companies Are Designing Their Own Workflows With AI
Diamond Sponsor Session:
Reform-Logo
Most logistics companies have a long list of operational improvements, but those ideas often stall while waiting for IT. In this session, we’ll explore a different model: ops teams building their own workflows. Reform empowers users to deploy complex automations themselves while AI continuously checks the work, flags exceptions, and ensures compliance with internal SOPs and regulations. Join the conversation with Reform's CEO Omar Abuhashish and CITTA Brokerage Client Success and Process Improvement Manager Jerry Cunningham to learn how this forward-thinking duty drawback provider implemented their own processes on Reform, accelerating turnaround times and freeing their team to focus on higher-value activities.
 Panelists:

Omar Abuhashish, Owner, CEO, Reform
Jerry Cunningham, Client Success and Process Improvement Manager, CITTA
 Moderator: 

Cindy Allen, TradeForce Multiplier
2:00 - 3:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Got Marine Insurance?
 With cargo theft on the rise, ship sizes growing, and significant weather events becoming more the norm, it has never been more crucial to ensure you have an adequate marine policy in place. This panel will explore best practices in marine insurance,  bringing claims forward, including carrier direct, policy response, and General Average process.
 Panelists:

Daniel Stevenson, Regional Vice President, Roanoke
Grant Goldsmith, Vice President, Corporate Sales Development, Avalon
 Moderator:

Rich Roche, Mohawk Global
3:00 - 3:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
Final Break & Raffles in Exhibitor MarketPlace
 Sponsored by: OpenTrack-logo  OpenTrack Inc.
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
The Journey of an Air Export Shipment
 Every stakeholder in the air export value chain is regulated. Some by multiple agencies.  The cargo transporters and handlers have TSA compliance considerations in every air export shipment they touch or have transportation involvement.  Certain entities are directly regulated by TSA and others are indirectly regulated by TSA – but all are regulated and have to implement safety and security programs.  In this session we will hear from the Indirect Air Carrier, the Authorized Representative, the Ground Handler, (Screener), and the Airline to hear their different responsibilities in security and compliance as it relates to TSA regulations and how YOU can learn the do’s and don’t of exporting cargo from the US by air.
 Panelists: 

Vicente Herrera, American Airlines
Kurt Schenkemeyer, Argents
 Moderator: 

Donna Mullins, President, Mullins International Solutions
4:30 - 5:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Penalty Kicks & Paperwork: How Entry Decisions Change the Game For Drawback & Reconciliation
 
Your entry-filing decisions serve as key passes, setting up the play for successful reconciliation and drawback claims.
We’ll break down how entry requirements, tariff order, entry cancellation implications and splitting derivatives values, can be your winning penalty kick or unexpected red card. Get ready for real-world examples and actionable strategies. 
 Panelists: 

Michael Cerney, Charter Brokerage
Dave Corn, Comstock Holt
Patty Tschaepe, J&K Fresh, LLC
 Moderator: 

Anne-Marie Busch, Veritrade International
5:00 - 6:00 PM
San Antonio Terrace
NCBFAA Happy Hour
 Co-Sponsored by:
 
5:00 PMClosing Announcements
7:00 - 10:30 PM
Grand Ballroom J-M
The 53rd NCBFAA Annual Conference Tuesday Night Dinner: Diamonds, Denim & Dice
NCBFAA 2026 Tuesday Dinner Flyer

Co-Sponsored by:

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Wednesday, April 15th

Program Sponsored by: 
EPIC IB&C Logo &   Tokio Marine HCC Logo
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Registration Desk
(Ballroom-level Foyer)
NCBFAA Registration Desk/Information Center
 Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine Brokerage, Ltd.
7:00 - 8:00 AM
Grand Ballroom K-M
NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast 
 (Tables will be reserved for speakers)
7:00 - 8:00 AM
Grand Ballroom K-M
Breakfast Buffet in the Grand Ballroom
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
8:00 - 9:00 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
The Export Compliance Playbook: New Rules, Emerging Risks, Proven Practices
 In an era of continually changing export controls and heightened export enforcement, maintaining a robust export compliance program is a strategic necessity.  This panel will provide an updated playbook for trade compliance professionals navigating rapid regulatory shifts and increased scrutiny of global supply chains.  We will hear from experts at the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the U.S. Census Bureau. 
 Panelists:

Kiesha Downs, Census
Kim Calicott, Western Overseas
 Moderator:

Donna Kavanaugh, A.N. Deringer
9:00 - 9:45 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Embracing the New Normal
Diamond Sponsor Session:
Avalon Risk Management
Real-world strategies to reduce risk and increase efficiency in today’s chaotic world of international trade
 Panelists:

Mike Brown, President/CEO, Avalon Risk Management
Brian Barber, LCB, CCS, Vice President, U.S. Brokerage & Government Affairs,  Willson International Inc.
 Moderator: 

Kimberly Wakeman, Senior VP, Regional Operations & Government Affairs, Avalon Risk Management
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Ballroom-level Foyer
Morning Session Break
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Extra Time Tactics: Winning Moves For Metal Valuation
 
The match is on! Our all-star panel of attorneys and a veteran broker will serve as your coaches. The panel will break down the toughest challenges and help build your playbook of best practices.
 Panelists:

James A. Amyx ST&R            
Ryan Raynak,  HG Enterprises LLC
 Moderator:

Lori Mullins, Rogers & Brown Custom Brokers, Inc.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
 Mastering PSC, Protests, And Surety Exposure Like a World Cup Referee
 The world of customs compliance is like a high-stakes soccer match, where every move is reviewed.  This session takes you through the lifecycle of Post Summary Corrections (PSC) to Protest, tracking every play from initial corrections to filing and their effect on bonds.
 Panelists:

Lenny Feldman, Managing Partner, Operating Committee, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
Joanne Slapinski, International Bond & Marine Brokerage, LTD.
Jason Kenner, Member & Litigation Practice Leader. Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
 Moderator: 

Karia Herrera, Customs Compliance Manager, R.L. Jones Customshouse Brokers
12:00 - 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom K-M
Luncheon with Keynote Speaker
  
 Keynote Speaker: Hon. Leo M. Gordon, Senior Judge, United States Court of International Trade
 Introduced by: Jose D. Gonzalez, NCBFAA President; President, Jose D. Gonzalez CHB
 Sponsored by: Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
1:30 - 5:30 PM
Grand Ballroom P
ACE Portal Training Sessions
 Attention ACE Portal Users
 Do you use the ACE Portal and find its functionality challenging? If so, then you should participate in one of the eight ACE Portal Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14th, and Wednesday, April 15th, these 30-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask CBP Portal experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the Portal. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices.
 Trainers:

Bianca Carr, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Ruben Barberena, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
1:30 - 5:30 PM
 Grand Ballroom N
APHIS Import Tools Training Sessions
 
Do your clients import agricultural commodities or animal products regulated by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)? Do you struggle to determine what documentation and permits apply to imported shipments?  Are you unsure how to use the APHIS on-line tools, ACIR (Agricultural Commodities Import Requirements) and VSPA (Veterinary Services Permitting Assistant)? 
 
If so, then you should participate in one of the eight ACIR and VSPA Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14th, and Wednesday, April 15th, these 45-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask APHIS experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the ACIR and VSPA tools. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices.
 Trainers:

Chloe Campbell, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Jeremy Whisenhunt, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 
1:30 - 2:15 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Fox In The Box: Compliance Striker - Scoring With ACE and Automated Technologies

Lace up your boots—compliance is all action! Learn what tools exist. ACE and automated technologies can help your team boost compliance, spot discrepancies and keep pace with regulations while safeguarding confidentiality.  
 Panelists: 

Sam Basu, Amari AI
Amber M. Hagewood, Fedex Logistics 
Cindy Allen, Trade Force Multiplier LLC  
Lenny Feldman, Managing Partner, Operating Committee, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
 Moderators: 

Christine Sliwinski, Maersk Customs Services USA, Inc
2:15 - 3:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Avoiding The Red Card: Customs Broker's Approaches to Managing Inquiries and Reviews
 
Discover how to avoid costly fouls by ensuring your responses to CBP are on point.

This session will help guide brokers on how to handle CF-28s, CF-29s, audits, and investigations.  Learn how to effectively navigate and respond to CBP inquiries and know when to consult Customs Counsel.
 Panelists: 

Lenny Feldman, Managing Partner, Operating Committee, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
Ralph De La Rosa, Imperial Freight Brokers, Inc.
 Moderators: 

Pam Brown, Future Forwarding
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Ballroom-level Foyer
Afternoon Session Break
 Sponsored by: Reform-Logo Reform
3:15 - 4:15 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Pressure Points in the Supply Chain: Disruption, Labor, and Logistics Challenges
 
Ongoing supply chain disruptions continue to challenge forwarders and NVOCCs, from geopolitical instability and labor actions to transportation bottlenecks and workforce shortages. Port congestion, infrastructure constraints, limited equipment availability, and rising fuel and labor costs all contribute to delays and increased operational pressure.

This high-level will provide a concise overview of the most common logistics challenges impacting supply chain performance today and how they affect transit times, costs, and customer expectations. Speakers will highlight practical operational considerations and lessons learned, focusing on where companies are feeling the greatest strain and how they are adjusting in real time.
 Panelist:

Ashley Craig, Partner and Co-Chair, International Trade and Logistics Group, Venable
Melzie Wilson, CEO, The Global Zolutions
 Moderator: 

Merit Tremper Pardo, President, Merit Trade Consulting Services LLC
4:15 - 5:00 PM
Grand Ballroom G-I
Shaping North American Trade: Customs Brokers at the Front Lines of USMCA/CUSMA/T MEC Review and Cross Border Government Engagement
 North American trade doesn’t move itself — customs brokers do. Join leaders from the NCBFAA and the North American Customs Brokers Alliance as they reveal how industry expertise is driving the USMCA/CUSMA/T MEC review, influencing government decision making, and solving real world border challenges. From trilateral diplomacy to global influence at the World Customs Organization, this is a behind the scenes look at how brokers are redefining the future of trade in the region.
 Panelists:

USA – Federico C Zuniga, Chair, North American Customs Brokers Alliance (NACBA), NCBFAA Representative
Canada – Kim Campbell, NACBA Member, CIFFA Representative
Mexico – Carlos Martinez, NACBA Member, CAAAREM Representative (Mexican Customs Brokers Association)
5:00 PMClosing Announcements
5:00 - 6:00 PM
San Antonio Terrace
NCBFAA Happy Hour
 Co-Sponsored by:
 
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Grand Ballroom K-M
Closing Reception, Keynote Address & Special Recognition Awards
 This year we will be honoring Amy Magnus, a longtime NCBFAA Member, Past President, and Senior Counselor of the association, with the highest honor we can bestow: the NCBFAA Centurion Award in appreciation of her outstanding vision, leadership, and dedication to the betterment of the international freight transportation community.
 Sponsored by: Louisiana Maritime International Chamber of Commerce Inc.
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Speaker/Moderator Bios

Omar Abuhashish 

 

Omar Abuhashish is the Co-Founder and CEO of Reform, an AI platform that helps companies automate the complex workflows driving global trade. He works with leading freight forwarders and customs brokers worldwide — conducting process reviews, documentation audits, and hands-on implementations. Holding degrees in Computer Science and Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering from New York University, Omar combines deep technical expertise gained at high-growth startups in San Francisco with a sharp understanding of trade operations. He went through Y Combinator and built a team of exceptional engineers and industry experts dedicated to blending cutting-edge AI with human expertise to streamline compliance, accelerate processing, and recover lost revenue across the supply chain.

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Kim Calicott 

 

Kim Calicott is the Vice President of Global Logistics & Export Compliance at Western Overseas Corporation, where she leads international freight operations and oversees transportation compliance strategy. With over a decade of experience in global logistics, Kim specializes in U.S. export regulations, transportation and supply chain compliance, and operational process improvement.

She is actively involved in industry leadership through the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), currently serving as Chair of the Transportation Committee and previously as Chair of the Export Compliance Subcommittee. Kim works closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders on regulatory initiatives.

Kim is focused on strengthening compliance programs while driving practical, efficient solutions that support global trade operations.

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Dave Corn 

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 vice chair for the NCBFAA’s Drawback Subcommittee, as the co-chair for AAEI’s Drawback and Duty Deferral Committee, 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). In January 2024 he was reappointed to serve on the 17th term of COAC where he was selected by CBP and his peers to be the COAC Trade lead.

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.

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Jon Daniels 

Dr. Jon Daniels is an Assistant Director with USDA APHIS–Plant Protection and Quarantine, where he leads a team of National Policy Managers responsible for national programs that safeguard U.S. agriculture while supporting efficient, predictable trade, including oversight of imported cargo policy, risk‑based sampling, USDA treatments, wood‑packaging material, and more. As a headquarters liaison to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, he plays a central role in resolving cargo‑related issues, shaping policy direction, and supporting the brokerage and logistics community that manages the vast majority of U.S. import and export entries. A former U.S. Marine Corps infantryman, Jon holds advanced degrees in Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Microbial Forensics, and he applies this expertise to protect the nation’s farms, forests, and supply chains from invasive threats. He lives with his family on a 100‑acre homestead in West Virginia, where he is building a self‑sustaining farm rooted in resilience, stewardship, and community service.

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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 Vice President of the National Customs Brokers & Forwarder Association of America and a board member of the Northern Border Customs Broker’s Association.

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Rob Fickeisen 

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 experience in brokerage 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, serving on the Regulatory Agencies Committee, the CPSC RAC Sub-Committee, the AD/CVD Customs Sub-Committee, and on the Annual Conference Committee.  He also serves on the currently in hiatus TSN eCommerce Committee.

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

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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.

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Mary Jo Muoio 

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.  In May of 2024, Ms. Muoio was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame—marking the first time this recognition has been 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 served on the Board of the American Association of Exporters and Importers where she has been a career-long member.

Ms. Muoio was appointed as a Trade Ambassador of the Trade Leadership Council and sits on the Trade Support Network committees and several joint TSN-CBP working groups. 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. In her spare time, she is active in the lives of her children and husband. Every once in a while, she gets the ironing done.

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Katherine Rickerson 

Kat is in her 17th year with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, first serving as a Compliance Investigator, and now as the eFiling Program Specialist in the Office of Import Surveillance. The new eFiling requirement will help CPSC more efficiently run its risk-based import surveillance program, to interdict the highest-risk imported shipments, while lowering stops and delays for importers who have demonstrated compliance.

Before joining the CPSC, Kat worked at US Customs and Border Protection and the former US Customs Service under the Department of the Treasury, serving in various roles at several ports of entry. Kat is also a US Army veteran. 

The CPSC table will have information available on upcoming eFiling requirements for US importers of consumer products.  Please come see us at the CPSC table with your eFiling questions.

Contact: Kat Rickerson eFiling Program Specialist, CPSC Office of Import Surveillance, 4330 East West Hwy, Bethesda, MD 20814, email krickerson@cpsc.gov 
For all eFIling program related inquiries, please contact eFilingSupport@cpsc.gov 


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Rich Roche 

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.

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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
 

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Christine Sliwinksi 

Christine Sliwinski is a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist with over 35 years of experience. She serves as the Customs Brokerage Responsible Supervision and Control Manager at Maersk Customs Services USA, Inc., specializing in imports, operational efficiency, trade compliance, and Partner Government Agency (PGA) matters.

Christine is committed to advancing education and professional development within Maersk, mentoring and guiding colleagues through her industry expertise and passion.

Throughout her career, she has demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to innovation and industry excellence.

In addition to her role at Maersk, Christine also serves as Vice President of the Boston Customs Broker & Freight Forwarders Association (since 2017) and, in 2025, was appointed to the NCBFAA Board of Directors for Area 3 (Boston). She is also an active member in both the NCBFAA Customs Committee and Regulatory Affairs Committee (RAC).
 

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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.

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Melzie Wilson

Melzie Wilson is CEO of The Global Zolutions, a supply chain consultant in Memphis, Tennessee.  With 40 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
  • Member of the NEI Content Committee
  • Area 7 Representative of the Transportation Committee
  • Former Chair of the Transportation Committee.
  • Former Vice Chair of the Transportation Committee
  • Former Chair of the Logistics Sub-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.

Vice President of the Mid-South Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association.

WESCONN Transportation Programming Chair.

Advisor to the Board of the Memphis World Trade Club.

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.” 

 

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Frederico (Kiko) C. Zuniga

Federico (Kiko) C. Zuniga graduated in 1979 from Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelors of Business Administration Degree in Finance. 

Zuniga served as Executive Director of the NCBFAA 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 is also a past Chairman of IFCBA (The International Federation of Customs Brokers Association) a position he held for four years. 

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

During the 2023 NCBFAA Annual Conference, Zuniga received the coveted Centurion Award in recognition of his years of service to NCBFAA.

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