VMA Maritime Breakfast Briefing Focuses on Workforce Opportunities & Challenges

The Virginia Maritime Association welcomed members and industry partners on June 3, 2026, for its Maritime Breakfast Briefing, Working in a Multi-Generational Workplace and Attracting Talent to Your Business.

As workforce challenges continue to impact maritime and supply chain industries, the discussion focused on practical strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining employees across multiple generations. Attendees heard valuable insights from moderator Zail Singh, Regional Internship Manager for Campus757 at the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, along with panelists Erika Snow, Vice President of Human Resources at The Port of Virginia, Andrew Jenkins, Logistics Coordinator at Givens Logistics, and Sara Lockett, Ed.D., Director of Career and Technical Education for Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

Panelists shared perspectives on workforce development, employee engagement, career pathways, and the evolving expectations of today’s workforce, underscoring how rapidly the talent landscape is changing. Their insights made clear that no single organization can address these challenges alone; instead, progress depends on strong partnerships between employers, educators, and workforce organizations working toward a shared goal of building Virginia’s future maritime talent pipeline.

That message carried directly into one of the briefing’s central themes: the power of cross-sector collaboration. As someone who works closely with both students and industry leaders, I was encouraged to hear repeated emphasis on early exposure, hands-on learning, and making maritime careers visible and accessible. The panel reinforced what I’ve seen firsthand: when employers, educators, and workforce partners align their efforts, we create real momentum for the next generation of maritime leaders.

During the briefing, VMA recognized Casey Murphy, Assistant Director of Customs and Compliance Services at CV International, Inc., as the recipient of the Clifton Styles Jr. Beacon Award. The award honors professionals whose leadership, dedication, and commitment to others make a meaningful impact on their organizations, colleagues, and Virginia’s maritime community. Casey was recognized for her exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and support of her team during one of the most challenging periods in recent customs compliance history, helping navigate evolving tariff requirements and ensuring compliant cargo movement through Virginia’s ports. VMA congratulates Casey on this well-deserved recognition.

Thank you to our sponsors whose support made the event possible: Bay Power Solutions, Port Captain Sponsor; CMP Global, Inc., Beacon Sponsor; and Moran Norfolk, Bowsprit Sponsor.

Mark your calendar for the next Maritime Breakfast Briefing, scheduled for September 2, 2026. Click here to register.