Port Tampa Bay Weekly Web Update
January 23, 2026
Port Tampa Bay Hosts First Maritime Expo
Port Tampa Bay, in partnership with the Propeller Club of the Port of Tampa, hosted its first Maritime Expo, welcoming approximately 800 students from Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.
The event brought together port tenants, maritime academies, military branches and education partners to introduce students to the wide range of career opportunities available within the maritime industry and across the port community.
Watch the Fox 13 news story on the Maritime Expo here.
Learn more at Port Tampa Bay’s web newsroom.
Port Tampa Bay Welcomes Stephanie Kinsey as Director of Business Development
Port Tampa Bay recently named Stephanie Kinsey as Director of Business Development, where she will lead strategic sales and business development efforts for container cargo in support of the port’s Vision 2030 master plan.
Kinsey brings more than 25 years of international logistics experience, including leadership roles with Fortune 500 cargo owners and global ocean carriers. Her expertise across supply chain partnerships and cargo growth will play a key role in advancing Port Tampa Bay’s long-term container strategy and customer-focused growth initiatives.
Learn more about Kinsey on the Port Tampa Bay newsroom.
Port Tampa Bay Welcomes Leadership Brandon
Port Tampa Bay recently welcomed members of Leadership Brandon for an on-site visit highlighting the port’s role as a key economic engine for West Central Florida.
The visit focused on the port’s impact on global trade, logistics, job creation and long-term regional growth, reinforcing Port Tampa Bay’s importance to Florida’s economy today and into the future.
Kelly Hendry Named 2025 Port Achievement Award Recipient
Kelly Hendry, president of Hendry Marine Industries Inc., will be recognized as the 2025 recipient of the Captain James McKay Port Achievement Award at the Anchor Ball on Jan. 24.
The award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to Port Tampa Bay and the maritime community. A third-generation family executive, Hendry continues a legacy of leadership and service, including long-standing involvement with the Propeller Club of the Port of Tampa and the Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundation.
Anchor Ball Benefit Gala Set for Jan. 24
Port Tampa Bay is looking ahead to the 2026 Anchor Ball, taking place Saturday, Jan. 24.
We extend a special thank you to City National Bank of Florida, the title sponsor of this annual fundraising gala supporting maritime workforce development and seafarer services.
Proceeds from the Anchor Ball benefit Tampa Port Ministries Seafarers Center and the Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundation, helping support the people and pathways that sustain our maritime industry. We are grateful to all sponsors and supporters who make this event possible.
Purchase tickets and learn more here.
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