2026 WPPA Port Academy Series – Fall Edition
Join us for the final Port Academy Series event of 2026 at the Port of Grays Harbor.
The Port Academy Series brings WPPA members together for hands-on, port-led sessions that explore how ports operate, plan, and address real-world challenges. Each session highlights a host port and provides an opportunity for practical learning, peer exchange, and discussion grounded in day-to-day port work.
This session will feature one of Washington`s most diverse and strategically important public ports. As the state`s only deep-water port on the Pacific Coast, the Port of Grays Harbor supports international cargo shipping, industrial property development, and a world-class marina. Participants will gain insight into how the Port balances economic development, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure investment while serving as a major gateway for global trade and supporting the regional economy.
Designed primarily for port staff, the Port Academy Series is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of port governance, operations, environmental stewardship, and long-range planning. Commissioners are also welcome to attend.
Agenda Highlights
- Welcome and introductions
- Overview of port governance, operations, and development strategy
- Current Port of Grays Harbor projects and initiatives
- Facilitated peer discussion and Q&A
- Interactive tour of port facilities
- Strategic planning discussion
Optional Activities – Wednesday, September 16
Satsop Business Park Tour
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Kick off the Port Academy experience with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Satsop Business Park, a nationally recognized redevelopment success story. Once home to the unfinished WPPSS nuclear power project, the nearly 2,000-acre campus has been transformed into a thriving center for advanced manufacturing, technology,
and industrial development. Attendees will learn how the Port leveraged long-term planning to create new economic opportunities for the region.
Welcome Gathering
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Mount Olympus Brewing
105 W. Heron Street
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Connect with fellow attendees and Port of Grays Harbor staff before the Academy begins. This informal networking event features a no-host bar and food available for purchase.
Registration Information
- Registration Fee: $100 plus applicable sales tax*
- Registration Deadline: September 4, 2026
- Capacity: Limited to 25 participants, so early registration is encouraged.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancellations received after the September 4 th registration
deadline will incur a $25 cancellation fee. - Lunch: Included
- Parking: Complimentary on-site parking is available.
*In 2025, the Washington State Legislature passed Senate Bill 5814, expanding retail sales tax to include
events such as workshops and seminars. As a result, WPPA is required to apply retail sales tax to event
registration fees.
Hotel Recommendation
Best Western Plus
701 E. Heron Street
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Located just a short drive from the Port of Grays Harbor offices.
We encourage attendees to arrive on Wednesday, September 16th , to take advantage of the optional Satsop Business Park tour and welcome gathering before the Academy begins. We look forward to seeing you in Aberdeen for another engaging, hands-on learning experience.