NCBFAA Prestigious 2023 Keynote SpeakersDr. Kevin McGrath, Security Expert & Crisis Management Consultant Troy Miller, Acting Commissioner U.S. Customs and Border Protection |
To view full day's schedule, click on day/date lines below!
Click here for the 2023 Annual Conference Program Summary.
Pre-Conference Meetings:
Conference Meetings:
Pre-Conference Meetings:
Friday, April 21st
3:00 - 5:00 PM Grand Ballroom B | NEI Meeting |
5:30 - 8:00 PM Grand Ballroom A | APN Meeting (Regular Members Only) |
Saturday, April 22nd
8:00 - 9:00 AM Grand Ballroom AB | RAC (Regular Members Only) |
9:00 - 11:30 AM Grand Ballroom AB | Transportation Committee (Regular Members Only) |
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM Grand Ballroom AB | Customs Committee (Regular Members Only) |
2:00 - 5:30 PM Grand Ballroom C | Board of Directors (Regular Members Only) |
6:00 - 7:00 PM Waterbury | Sponsor Appreciation Reception (Invitation Only; All Sponsors & Their Invited Guests) |
Conference Meetings:
Sunday April 23rd
Program Sponsored by:
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7:15 AM | Bus departs Sheraton New Orleans Hotel to Golf Course |
8:00 - 8:15 AM | Golf Tournament Registration |
Co-Sponsored by: | |
8:30 AM - 1:30 PM Lakewood Golf Club | Golf Tournament (Additional Cost - $125) |
![]() | Co-Sponsored by: |
Bus departs Golf Course at 2:00 p.m. to Sheraton New Orleans Hotel |
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9:00 - 11:00 AM | New Orleans VIP City Tour (Additional Cost - $60) |
The New Orleans VIP City Tour will pick you up for an air-conditioned tour ride to some of the most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks in New Orleans. Tour stops include the French Quarter, Tremé, the Garden District, historic cemeteries, City Park, the 9th Ward, and Lake Pontchartrain. |
1:00 - 8:00 PM Napoleon Registration Desk | NCBFAA登记处/信息中心 |
Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine |
2:00 - 6:00 PM Lagniappe | NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering |
![]() | Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group |
6:00 - 7:00 PM Maurepas Room (3rd floor) | Stewart B. Hauser First-Timer Reception (by Invitation Only) |
Conference "First Timer" attendees are introduced to NCBFAA Officers, Board of Directors, Counsel, Affiliated Association Presidents, Annual Conference Committee, and Media. Please extend a very warm welcome to all "First Timer" attendees identified by the yellow ribbon on their badge. | |
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7:00 - 8:00 PM Grand Ballroom | Grand Opening of the Exhibitor MarketPlace |
Registrants can visit with this year’s exhibitors, as well as enjoy refreshments. | |
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8:00 - 9:00 PM Armstrong | Welcome Reception (Dinner Included; Attire is Business Casual) |
After the Exhibitor MarketPlace closes, everyone will then join the “Welcome Reception” for dinner. This gathering of old friends and colleagues is the perfect opportunity to make new friends and acquaintances as NCBFAA welcomes all registrants to its 2023 Annual Conference. | |
Co-Sponsored by: | |
Monday, April 24th
Program Sponsored by:
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7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Napoleon Registration Desk | NCBFAA登记处/信息中心 |
Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine |
8:00 AM Grand Ballroom | Exhibitor MarketPlace Reopens |
8:00 - 9:00 AM Grand Ballroom | NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
(Tables will be reserved for speakers) |
8:00 - 10:00 AM Grand Ballroom | Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
9:00 - 11:30 AM Napoleon C-D | NCBFAA 2023 Annual Meeting |
All Regular Members are requested to attend this once-a-year event, which includes Officer, Counsel, and Committee reports. | |
Presiding: Jose D. Gonzalez, NCBFAA President, Jose D. Gonzalez CHB | |
(Regular Members Only, Please) |
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Grand Ballroom | Break in the Exhibitor MarketPlace |
Sponsored by: PayCargo, LLC |
12:00 - 1:30 PM Napoleon A-B | Lunch |
Sponsored by: Affiliated Presidents Network (APN) | |
Keynote Speaker: Kevin McGrath, Security Expert & Crisis Management Consultant | |
Introduction: Jose D. Gonzalez, NCBFAA President, Jose D. Gonzalez CHB | |
NCBFAA 2023 Scholarship Presentations | |
Winner: Robert Whitley Introduced by: Len James, NCBFAA Annual Conference Chair, John S. James Co. Presented by: Karen Groff, President, Roanoke Insurance Group Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group | |
Winner: Elizabeth Hill Introduced by: Len James, NCBFAA Annual Conference Chair, John S. James Co. Presented by: Damien Stile, Chief Operating Officer, Alba Wheels Up International, Inc. Sponsored by: Alba Wheels Up | |
NCBFAA CCS Award Presentation | |
Winners: Jeremy Harn, Livingston International, Inc. Introduced by: Cynthia Whittenburg, NEI Executive Vice President, NCBFAA Presented by: Bill Todd, Business Development Executive, CargoWise Sponsored by: CargoWise | |
NCBFAA CES Award Presentation | |
Winner: George Joubran, DHL Express (USA) Inc. Introduced by: Cynthia Whittenburg, NEI Executive Vice President, NCBFAA Presented by: Kimberly Wakeman, Vice President, Regional Operations & Government Affairs, Avalon Risk Management Sponsored by: Avalon Risk Management |
1:30 - 2:00 PM Grand Ballroom | Dessert in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
Sponsored by: |
2:00 - 4:30 PM | Exhibitor MarketPlace Closes (Reopens at 4:30 PM) |
2:00 - 3:30 PM Napoleon C-D | RAC Town Hall |
Precis: Join the RAC Committee and PGA representatives to discuss the most recent PGA challenges that will effect your company and your clients. Bring your questions and concerns to this open forum. Let some of the industry's most experienced PGA experts bring you up to date on the latest items of interest. | |
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3:30 - 4:00 PM Napoleon C-D | The Future of Air Cargo: “The downside of passivity is too great to ignore” |
Precis: Safeguarding the future of Air Cargo and its economic importance and critical need for investment. Come hear how YOU can help safeguard the future of air cargo. | |
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4:00 - 4:30 PM Napoleon C-D | Broker Audit - What to Expect as Broker Modernization Unfolds |
Precis: A discussion on how regulatory audit will look at brokers with the changes in 19 CFR 111. A presentation on what to expect over this year with advice on how to prepare for a Customs audit. | |
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4:30 - 5:15 PM Napoleon C-D | Cyber Panel |
Precis: We have all read the headlines, large and small logistics companies are being hit with cyber security attacks for various reasons – ransomware demands, looking for client business information, or other data to sell. To understand the critical information and ways to protect yourself, we will hear from noted Cyber Security expert Chris Hetner on the current cyber threats and environment issues. To understand the responsibilities of customs brokers and freight forwarders, Kyle Griffin, CBP Office of Trade will address the government concerns and outline reporting responsibilities. Finally, Ralph De La Rosa will outline what customs brokers and freight forwarders will need to prepare for business resumption. | |
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4:30 - 6:30 PM | Exhibitor MarketPlace Reopens |
4:30 - 6:30 PM Maurepas | NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering in Exhibitor MaketPlace |
![]() | Sponsored by: Roanoke Insurance Group |
5:15 PM | Closing Announcements |
6:45 - 9:30 PM | Dinner on Your Own |
Tuesday, April 25th
Program Sponsored by:
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7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Napoleon Registration Desk | NCBFAA登记处/信息中心 |
Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine |
7:00 - 8:00 AM Grand Ballroom | NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
(Tables will be reserved for speakers) |
7:00 - 9:00 AM Grand Ballroom | Breakfast Buffet in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
8:00 - 8:30 AM Napoleon C-D | Trade Procedures into Mexico |
Precis: When our clients ask us to move merchandise destined for Mexico, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the requirements and process involved. In a joint collaboration between the NCBFAA Educational Institute and the Mexican Brokers National Association CAAAREM, we have developed a course which explains the process and responsibilities of all parties involved. This session will go over the highlights of this course. | |
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8:30 - 9:00 AM Napoleon C-D | Learn from the Past, Live in the Present, Prepare for the Future: Brokers & Forwarders Through the Decades |
Precis: The logistics industry has changed drastically over the past five decades. From the introduction of new technology to changing regulations, it has been a wild ride! Our panelists will take you on a journey through time from 1973 through present day, as they review 50 years of challenges and how they’ve impacted trade and transportation. They’ll explore how these challenges have transformed the industry and what to expect in the future. | |
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9:00 - 10:00 AM Napoleon C-D | Life Beyond the Entry Filing |
Precis: Post Entry, Voluntary Tender, Post Summary Corrections, 520 D, Drawback, Protest, Reconciliation, Prior Disclosure, Liquidation Extension/Suspension. What to consider when filing post-entry. | |
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10:00 - 10:30 AM Napoleon C-D | Modernized ACE Portal and 111 Regulations - How to ensure you are using the Portal correctly to comply with new 111 Regulations |
Precis: New Broker Regulations' reliance on the Modernized ACE Portal. How to enter and manage data to the ACE Portal to comply with 111 Regulations. Reports to consider to demonstrate supervision and control. Ensuring proper security settings are placed in the portal to protect personal identifying information. | |
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10:30 - 11:00 AM Grand Ballroom | Break in the Exhibitor MarketPlace |
Sponsored by: PayCargo, LLC |
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Napoleon C-D | La Junta |
Precis: Our annual meeting to review Southern Border crossing issues, both North and South, and discuss actionable items. | |
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12:00 - 1:30 PM Grand Ballroom | Luncheon in Exhibitor Marketplace |
12:00 - 1:30 PM Napoleon A1, 2, 3 | Legislative Committee Meeting (Lunch Provided) |
Have you ever had an interest in government? Have you ever wondered how a bill is passed into law? Do you have an interest in helping to get laws changed in the industry? If so, the legislative committee may be right for you! The NCBFFA legislative committee is actively seeking new members to join, and we are looking for dedicated individuals that are committed to the cause and assist with issues such as the Customs Business Fairness Act HR2261. This group is committed to helping shape the future of our industry! Please stop by if you are interested during lunch on Tuesday. |
1:30 - 5:00 PM Oak Alley (4th Floor) | ACE Portal Training Sessions |
Attention ACE Portal Users | |
Precis: Do you use the ACE Portal and find its functionality challenging? If you do, then you should participate in one of the eight ACE Portal Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25th, and Wednesday, April 26th, these 30-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask CBP Portal experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the Portal. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices. | |
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1:30 - 2:15 PM Napoleon C-D | The Impact of Ocean Shipping Reform Act (OSRA) and Federal Maritime Commission Issues Effecting the NVOCC Industry |
Precis: This panel will address impacts on the NVOCC industry regarding OSRA, Detention and Demurrage, Charge Compliance, National Shipper Advisory Committee (NSAC) recommendations and updates. | |
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2:15 - 3:00 PM Napoleon C-D | Your Business Beyond Brokerage & Forwarding |
Precis: In this panel we will explore aspects of our business beyond the basic freight and customs. We will discuss how we can better leverage artificial intelligence and other modern technology, people and business management, and social media tools to further our business goals. | |
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3:00 - 3:30 PM Grand Ballroom | Final Break & Raffles in Exhibitor MarketPlace |
Sponsored by: PayCargo, LLC |
3:30 - 5:00 PM Napoleon C-D | CBP/Census/BIS Export Initiative |
Precis: With the recent changes in export regulations, increased focus on enforcement, and the policy changes anticipated in the coming year, this panel is exactly what forwarders need. Join us as we dive into recent export regulatory actions, guidance and best practices for forwarders, enforcement, and future regulatory actions with Customs and Border Protection, Bureau of Industry and Security, and U.S. Census. Topics of discussion include the vehicle export process, Electronic Export Manifest, enforcement trends, common gaps in forwarder compliance, and more! | |
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4:00 - 6:00 PM Maurepas | NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering |
![]() | Sponsored By: Roanoke Insurance Group |
5:00 PM | Closing Announcements |
Wednesday, April 26th
Program Sponsored by:
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7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Napoleon Registration Desk | NCBFAA登记处/信息中心 |
Sponsored by: International Bond & Marine |
7:00 - 8:00 AM Napoleon A-B | NCBFAA Speakers' Breakfast |
(Tables will be reserved for speakers) |
7:00 - 8:00 AM Napoleon A-B | Breakfast Buffet in Napoleon Foyer |
8:00 - 8:45 AM Napoleon C-D | CBP Overview of Open Pilots: How to Participate & What They Entail |
Precis: CBP has recently initiated or extended several pilot programs that impact the brokerage and forwarding community. Our panelists will explain the program details for the Global Business Identifier, the expansion of Section 321, Steel and Pipeline Commodities, and Ocean House Bill AMS Simplification. The panel will discuss each of these pilot programs and the impact to their companies. | |
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8:45 - 9:30 AM Napoleon C-D | Continuing Education for Licensed Brokers |
Precis: Are you ready for the continuing education requirements for Licensed US Customs Brokers? As we inch closer to the mandatory requirements around continuing education, learn how some companies are preparing for the change in regulations. | |
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9:30 - 10:15 AM Napoleon C-D | FMC Commissioner Max Vekich |
Precis: FMC Commissioner Max Vekich will speak to us on important topics such as current FMC data initiatives, any changes to the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, and other timely subjects. | |
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10:15 - 10:30 AM Napoleon Foyer | Morning Session Break |
Sponsored by: PayCargo, LLC |
10:30 - 11:30 AM Napoleon C-D | Running Your Business Under Modernized 111 Regulations with Responsible Supervision and Control |
Precis: Recent changes to the broker regulations introduced the concept of a Responsible Supervision and Control plan. Even if you are not required to present one, should you develop one for internal uses and what would it contain? The responsible supervision and control criteria were also expanded to include tests of broker behavior regarding timeliness and communications. How can you implement sufficient internal controls to support your compliance with EACH of the supervision criteria and what tools may help? What kind of variety will CBP expect? | |
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11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Napoleon C-D | Best Practices for Managing Risk – New Broker Regulations and Other CBP Actions |
Precis: The recent changes to 19CFR§111 have posed additional risks to the customs broker industry. CBP’s enforcement initiatives, such as additional bond requirements, bond claims and forced labor, also have an impact on the industry. Attend this session to learn about insurance and surety solutions to mitigate those risks. | |
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12:00 - 1:30 PM Napoleon A-B | Lunch |
Keynote Speaker: Acting Commissioner Troy Miller, U.S. Customs and Border Protection | |
Sponsored by: Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. |
1:30 - 5:00 PM Oak Alley (4th Floor) | ACE Portal Training Sessions |
Attention ACE Portal Users | |
Precis: Do you use the ACE Portal and find its functionality challenging? If you do, then you should participate in one of the eight ACE Portal Training Sessions we have scheduled during the NCBFAA Annual Conference. Running from 1:30 - 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25th, and Wednesday, April 26th, these 30-minute first-come, first-served sessions are only being offered to fully registered attendees. This is your chance to ask CBP Portal experts for help in addressing any of your challenges with the Portal. Registrations are limited to on-site only; no pre-arrival registrations will be taken, and participants must provide their own devices. | |
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1:30 - 2:15 PM Napoleon C-D | State of CBP: Meet new CBP Leadership and receive an update from CBP on Priority Trade Issues |
Precis: Meet new CBP Leadership and receive an update from CBP on Priority Trade Issues, including Forced Labor, Cargo Release and Security. | |
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2:15 - 3:00 PM Napoleon C-D | FDA: Part of Our Lives |
Precis: Come for an up-to-date overview of all things FDA. From COVID to the FDA New Era of Smarter Food Safety Program, the FDA has become a regular part of our daily work and home life. Hear an update of old and new programs alike from the agency that has such far reaching impacts. | |
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3:00 - 3:45 PM Napoleon C-D | 21st Century Customs Framework: What is the Status of this Concept and What Will It Mean to Your Business? |
Precis: CBP is developing a whole new approach to the entry process. It will bring in more information earlier in the shipping process from new players in entry data. A discussion about who the new players will be, how they will contribute, and where brokers fit into the new program. New legislation and regulations will be needed to move it forward. Current ACE will not be able to service the new framework. This panel will include a discussion on ACE 2.0, its progress and expectations. | |
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3:45 - 4:00 PM Napoleon Foyer | Afternoon Session Break |
Sponsored by: PayCargo, LLC |
3:45 - 4:15 PM Maurepas | NCBFAA Hospitality Gathering |
![]() | Sponsored By: Roanoke Insurance Group |
4:00 - 5:00 PM Napoleon C-D | Supply Chain Congestion - Where are we now? |
Precis: Lessons learned by the White House Port Envoy's office and the port community on supply chain congestion and disruption; what actions, investments and data initiatives both the public and private sector need to take in order to minimize future occurrences. | |
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5:00 PM | Closing Announcements |
5:00 - 6:30 PM Maurepas | NCBFAA Outdoor Hospitality Gathering |
![]() | Sponsored By: Roanoke Insurance Group |
6:30 - 8:30 PM Napoleon A-B | Closing Reception, Keynote Address & 特殊的荣誉 |
This year we will be honoring longtime NCBFAA Customs Committee Chair Mary Jo Muoio with the highest honor we can bestow: the NCBFAA Centurion Award. | |
Sponsored by: Louisiana Maritime International Chamber of Commerce Inc. |