Maritime Division Director
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Maritime Division Director

Geir Eilif Kalhagen is the Maritime director.

Kalhagen brings significant experience in the global supply chain, with an emphasis and core proficiencies in the maritime sector, global logistics and international commerce. His experience has been acquired during international deployment in S.E. Asia, Asia, North America, and Europe.

His global experience in the private sector and tenure as CEO and executive director of the Washington State Public Port system has led to recognition and appointments to national and international organizations. He has served as the first vice president of the Americas for the International Association of Ports and Harbors. In addition, he served on the strategic sub-planning committee and the northwest caucus for the American Association of Port Authorities.

Kalhagen was equally recognized on the state level, serving as vice chair for the Washington Public Ports Association. He was appointed to the Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board.

He is recognized as an authoritative voice on the confluence of the private maritime industry and public port management and has been a guest speaker on several topics for the American Association of Public Ports. He has also contributed to discussions for Eastern Washington University MBA programs and guest speaking at the University of Oregon Executive MBA program. Kalhagen also partnered with Lamar University in the development of a port-focused master’s program.

Kalhagen holds an MBA from the University of Oregon and a bachelor's degree in philosophy and political science from the University of South Alabama. He has also earned a U.S.C.G. Limited Masters and a Six Sigma Black Belt.