
Conference Agenda
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8:00 - 9:00: Networking Breakfast
The Challenge of Striking the Right Balance Between National Security and Trade
From the China tariffs to Forced Labor to Export Sanctions, increasingly the U.S. has used trade reforms to address national security interests. How have these trade measures impacted legitimate trade and how should companies prepare for future trade restrictions that seek to address national security interests?
- Eugene Laney – President and CEO, American Association of Importers and Exporters
The Future of the Transportation and Logistics Industry
The transportation and logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Join industry leaders to hear about current challenges and future trends.
Moderator
- Kristi App – Vice President, J.W. Allen & Company, Inc.
Panelists
- Otis Tucker – Owner, Trucking Innovation LLC
- Drew Tessier – Senior Director of Public Affiars, Union Pacific Railroad
11:15 - 12:30: Networking Lunch
Selling the Louisiana Brand
The Louisiana brand is known across the world. Leaders from Louisiana’s leading brands will discuss how they have taken their brand global and explore challenges and opportunities to importing and exporting products from around the globe.
Moderator
- Erin Butler – Director, U.S. Commercial Service New Orleans
Panelists
- Alyssa Fletchinger Higgins – Vice President, Plush Appeal LLC
- Zach Foster – Chief Financial Officer, Louisiana Pepper Exchange
- Christa Cotton – Chief Executive Officer, El Guapo Bitters
Energy on a Global Scale
Louisiana is one of the world’s leading markets for energy production, processing, and transportation. It is a top producer of both crude oil and natural gas in the United States. What’s more, Louisiana is leading the way in the energy evolution. Join panelists as they discuss how global trends in the energy industry will impact Louisiana.
Moderator
- Lacy McManus – Executive Director of Future Energy, Greater New Orleans, Inc.
Panelists
- Heather Hohensee – Director of Government & Public Affairs, Tellurian Inc.
- Jack Koban – Sr. Business Development Manager – Gulf Coast, Fugro
Breakout Session: Export Bootcamp
U.S. Commercial Service New Orleans’ “Export Bootcamp” program is aimed at helping new-to-export companies and existing exporters in Louisiana grow their international sales. Each Bootcamp features information-packed presentations from members of the Louisiana District Export Council and other local, regional and national experts in international trade. Topics covered include:
- Logistics
- Trade Finance
- Market Selection and Entry
- Digital Marketing
- Legal & Regulatory Compliance
Bootcamps also include an interactive “Export Expert” session during which a Louisiana company describes their experience getting started in exporting, including the benefits gained, challenges overcome, and lessons learned along the way.
3:30 - 5:30: Post-Conference Cocktail and Networking Recption
Join us to celebrate the inaugural Louisiana International Trade Conference and network with trade and logistics professionals from across Louisiana.
Sponsors
Silver
Bronze
Partner