Good afternoon everyone,

As we step into 2026, I want to begin by saying how proud I am of the momentum we’ve built together at the Foreign Trade Association of Southern California. Last year was about strengthening our foundation. My predecessor, Nicole Wainwright, along with last year’s board, did an exceptional job establishing a strong, stable foundation for the board’s continued growth.

This year is about expansion, collaboration, visibility, and measurable impact.

Our focus for 2026 centers around five key initiatives:

First — Strategic Collaboration.

We are intentionally aligning with complementary associations to amplify our reach and value. That includes deeper collaboration with the LA Air Cargo Association, co-hosting scholarship programs, supporting a shared booth presence, and creating joint programming that unites ocean, air, and inland transportation communities.

We are also exploring partnership opportunities with the Los Angeles Transportation Club for a potential golf event, bringing together leaders across modes in a setting that fosters real relationship building.

And we will continue strengthening our World Trade Week collaboration with LACBFFA, ensuring our presence remains strong and relevant within the customs brokerage and freight forwarding community.

Second — Industry Visibility at Major Conferences.

We are planning a collaborative event during TPM in Long Beach — a focused, high-impact gathering that positions FTA as a connector of decision makers during one of the most important conferences in our industry calendar. This initiative is about brand positioning, sponsorship engagement, and strategic networking.

Third — Scholarship & Workforce Development.

Bringing back scholarships in tandem with our partners is not just a feel-good initiative — it is a workforce investment strategy. We are actively working to connect with universities, supply chain programs, and emerging professionals. If we want the next generation in trade and logistics, we must show up where they are.

Fourth — Revenue Diversification & Sustainable Programming.

In 2026, we will introduce more structured, member-driven programming — including low-cost webinars and educational sessions that are accessible but still revenue-generating. We will evaluate event pricing, sponsorship tiers, and cost structures to ensure that each initiative is financially responsible and aligned with our annual budget goals.

Fifth — Membership Growth & Marketing Modernization.

We are focusing on new member acquisition, improved newsletters, stronger social media presence, and upgraded marketing materials. Growth does not happen passively. It happens through consistent outreach, clearer value propositions, and intentional storytelling about who we are and why we matter.

Ultimately, 2026 is about positioning FTA as:

● A connector across modes

● A leader in collaborative programming

● A champion of workforce development

● And a financially disciplined, forward-thinking association

None of this happens because of one person. It happens because of this board — your ideas, your relationships, your willingness to step up and execute.

This year, I challenge us to think bigger, move faster, and collaborate more intentionally than ever before.

The future of our industry is evolving — and FTA will evolve with it.

Thank you all for your leadership. Let’s make 2026 our most impactful year yet.

James McNamee

2026 FTA President