North Star Port

DULUTHPORT.COM | 1 FIVE FOR FREIGHTING 5 Questions with Kevin Beardsley The American Association of Port Authorities hosted its annual convention in early October at the Quebec City Convention Centre. You've been to these events previously, but this was your first time attending as an execu- tive director. How did that change the experience? Attending the AAPA Annual Convention as an executive director brought a new level of engagement and perspective. In previous years, my focus was more on the AAPA Port Professional Manager program (PPM) and specific project areas. This time, the conversations were broader, centered on strategy, leadership and collaboration across the entire port network. It was rewarding to connect with peers from around the world and discuss how we, as leaders, can collectively strengthen the future of maritime trade and infrastructure. The Port Authority now has a new chief financial officer (see story on Page 16). What's one accounting tool or task that has changed most in that role from when you joined the Port Authority as CFO in 2014? The most significant change has been the shift toward more integrated and automated financial systems. When I started in 2014, much of our purchasing relied on manual processes, for example, handwritten purchase orders. Today, we use more advanced software that connects purchasing, purchase orders and project tracking in real time. It's not just about efficiency; it's about having better data to make more informed decisions for the organization. We continue looking for ways to be more automated, efficient and integrated in the future as new tech- nology and AI continue to progress. Also, I'm excited to welcome our new CFO, Nate Cavallin, who started Oct. 13. He'll be a great addition to our team at the Port Authority. Speaking of tools and tasks, is there any- thing new and extremely helpful you've implemented or discovered during your first six months as executive director? What stood out most in my first six months has been how wel- coming and supportive the maritime community has been. From industry partners to port colleagues across the Great Lakes and beyond, everyone has been incredibly generous with their time and insights. That collaboration and sense of shared purpose has been invaluable as I've settled into the role and continued the Port Authority's work of strength- ening regional and global connections. Once again, I'd like to give a shout-out to Deb DeLuca for her support and lead- ership during her time as the Port Authority's executive director. You're a dedicated pickup truck guy. If you could be director for a day at Ford Motor Company, what feature would you add or change in regard to the Ford F-150? If I were director for a day at Ford, I'd focus on enhancing versatility and durability for real-world work and recreation. Specifically, I'd add even more modular storage and built-in organization options in the bed and cab, making it easier to securely carry tools, g e a r a n d c a r g o . Small innovations like that can make a big difference for people who rely on their F-150 every day. In the spirit of the season, what's your favorite Thanksgiving memory? My favorite Thanksgiving memories are simply being around the table with family, sharing stories, laughing too loud and pretending we're not all going back for seconds. There's just something about the mix of good food, old traditions and togetherness that makes the day feel right. Of course, no Thanksgiving is complete without everyone pitching in with the kitchen duties and also watching football. That's especially memorable when the Vikings play on Thanksgiving Day. I still remember Barry Sanders running all over us one Thanksgiving (1995); it was a masterclass in heartbreak (Detroit 44, Minnesota 38; Sanders rushed for 138 yards, including a decisive 50-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter). Some years, the turkey's great, the company's better, and the football … well, let's just say being a Vikings fan builds character. As I write this, after yet another tough loss to the Chargers on Thursday Night Football, confirmed: character fully built. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Barry Sanders Ford F-150

• Cover