AMIC Announces Upcoming Public Webinar: MAPping Maritime Prosperity Zones
As the United States accelerates efforts to revitalize its maritime industrial base, the concept of Maritime Prosperity Zones is quickly emerging as a critical framework for regional growth, national coordination, and long-term economic security.
Join us next week on April 23, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET for a dynamic, solutions-focused conversation hosted by Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder of AMIC, featuring insights from:
- RADM Jim Watson, USCG (Ret.) Co-Founder of AMIC
- Dr. Beatriz Canamary, Founder of SURE Strategy Group, Co-Founder of AMIC
- Commissioner Ryan Calkins, Commissioner of Port of Seattle
- Geir-Eilif Kalhagen, Maritime Division Director, TX DO
This 60-minute session will bring together leading voices from across the country to examine how regions are organizing, where opportunities lie, and what it will take to turn strategy into execution.
Developing Agenda:
- Welcome & Opening Remarks – Carleen Lyden Walker
- Policy Context: Maritime Action Plan (MAP) & Maritime Prosperity Zones – RADM Jim Watson
- Speaker Perspectives:
- Regional Snapshots – Ryan Calkins (Pacific Northwest), Commissioner of Port Seattle
- Geir-Elilif Kalhagen (Gulf Coast), Maritime Division Director, TX DOT
- Gulf Representative (invited)
- Discussion Round I: Vision & Current Status: Regional leadership, structure, and maturity of Maritime Prosperity Zone efforts
- Discussion Round II: Barriers & Federal Dependencies: Key challenges, funding considerations, and reliance on federal support mechanisms
- Discussion Round III: Coordination & the National Landscape: Opportunities for alignment across regions and the role of a national coordination framework
- Audience Q&A
- Closing Remarks
From regional capabilities and workforce development to federal dependencies and funding uncertainties, and ultimately to national coordination across competing regions, this discussion will provide a rare, inside look at how Maritime Prosperity Zones are taking shape in real time.
With audience Q&A and expert-led discussion guided by AMIC leadership, this working session will shape the future of the maritime industry.
About SHIPPINGInsight: Originally established in 2012, SHIPPINGInsight has grown steadily each year. Focusing on fleet optimization and innovation, the event provides a forum for industry and solution providers to exchange ideas and discuss challenges in facing the transformation of the industry. It also supports new technologies and solutions with its SHIPPINGInsight SHARK TANK. For more information, please visit www.shippinginsight.com
