The Port of Tacoma’s second season of its Ports and Popcorn speaker series is underway, offering the community a chance to learn more about the Port and the region’s maritime industry through a lineup of free public presentations. 

Hosted at the Grand Cinema in downtown Tacoma, the series brings together maritime professionals, historians, and industry experts for informative talks.  

The first event, Port of Tacoma: A Journey Through Time, is March 12 and features historian and retired Port employee Rod Koon. His presentation will trace the pivotal moments that shaped Tacoma and the broader Puget Sound region for more than a century. The presentation features historic photos and rare film footage illustrating how the Port was established and grew into a leading container gateway. 

The next presentation in the series, TOTE Maritime: Built for Alaska, will be held Thursday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Joey Halverson, VP of Operations at TOTE Maritime Alaska. Since 1975, TOTE has supported Alaskan communities by delivering a third of the state's goods, from groceries to building supplies to vehicles. Halverson will share an inside look at the innovation, efficiency, and dedication that make TOTE the 49th state's dedicated shipping partner. 

The final presentation of 2026 will be ILWU Strong: Longshore at the Port of Tacoma, and is scheduled for Thursday, May 7 with speakers Zack Pattin and Brian Skiffington. Both are longshore workers and members of Inter­na­tion­al Long­shore and Ware­house Union (ILWU) Local 23.  

Tickets are free, but advanced registration is required. Seating is limited and events reach capacity quickly. 

In 2025, series speakers included Port Captain Drew Kerlee of Foss Maritime, Maritime Pilot David Melin of Puget Sound Pilots, and historian Rod Koon, whose research documents the Port’s evolution.  

Community members interested in attending can find details on the Port’s website. To be notified of upcoming presentations, subscribe to Pier Side, the Port’s monthly newsletter.