Advancing Maritime Dialogue at AAPA Convention in New Orleans

INTERPORTPOLICE Secretary General and Commissioner Jay Grant joined maritime leaders and government officials in New Orleans for the American Association of Port Authorities’ 2026 Annual Convention and Expo. Grant, a Commissioner at the Port of Edmonds understands the value of reviewing opportunities and discussing significant port priorities of local and national issue ports face on an ongoing basis. During the forum Grant participated in several breakout sessions and worked to strengthen relationships across the port community. Regarless of the size of a port there were numerous relevant discussions to be had.

Grant welcomed the opportunity to meet AAPA’s new President and CEO, Sang H. Yi, and reconnect with longstanding colleagues, including Bethann Rooney, Port Director at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Grant and Rooney worked together on port security matters following the September 11 attacks. Soon after 9/11, Grant was appointed federal legislative counsel for the U.S. government Ports, working with the Federal government on new legislation and establishing grants; he also spent significant time working with police and security internationally.

Other discussions included Mark D. Johnson, Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration; Aris Kourkoumelis, Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; and Dale S. Revelle, a member of the Port of New Orleans Board of Commissioners. Grant also spoke with Dr. Brandy Hill about drone incursions in sensitive areas.

The exhibition also offered a lighter moment: a wildlife conservation exhibitor introduced Grant to a young alligator, providing a memorable encounter alongside the convention’s professional discussions.

- AAPA President and CEO Sang H. Yi with INTERPORTPOLICE Secretary General and Commissioner Jay Grant. * Grant is Commissioner at the Port of Edmonds, representing the area that encompasses the City of Edmonds and the Town of Woodway.