The Port of Tacoma has selected Karen Matthias, of Matthias Consulting, as its new Alaska consultant. Matthias has worked in Alaska’s business, economic and political arenas for seven years, and as Consul at the Consulate of Canada in Anchorage from 2004 to 2009. Matthias established Canada’s first presence in Alaska. She also worked for 10 years with the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
“We are very pleased to have Karen on our team,” says John Wolfe, Port of Tacoma chief executive officer. “Her skills, experience and network of contacts will benefit our port and our community by continuing to develop our relationships with the Alaska business community.”
Alaska is the Port of Tacoma’s third-largest trading partner, accounting for more than $3 billion in trade each year. Two major shipping lines, Horizon Lines and Totem Ocean Trailer Express Inc., both serve Alaska from Tacoma. A number of other Alaska-related companies – including Carlile Transportation, Lynden, The North West Company, the Odom Corporation and Trident – all have facilities at or near the Port of Tacoma.
Matthias will remain based in Anchorage, where she has lived since 2004. Through her involvement in the Alaska State Chamber, Resource Development Council and other business groups, she has an extensive knowledge of the state’s economic drivers and its potential large-scale resource development projects. She also has worked with Horizon Lines and TOTE representatives on the board of the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce.
