Memphis Logistics Summit

Welcome + Sponsor Recognition

Ted Townsend, Greater Memphis Chamber

Introduction

Dustin Crick, The Armstrong Company

Trends in Global Shipping and Inland Reach

Global trade flows are shifting, and inland hubs like Memphis are playing a critical role in connecting U.S. markets to international supply chains. This session explores global shipping trends, the impact of the Panama Canal, and opportunities to optimize inland reach through strategic port partnerships.

Moderator: Ted Townsend, Greater Memphis Chamber
Speakers:
Mickey Diaz, FedEx
Cindy Allen, Trade Force Multiplier
Michael Symonanis, Louis Dreyfus
Louis Terdan, NW Seaport Alliance

How AI is Reshaping Logistics

Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming how freight is managed, routed, and delivered. This session will showcase cutting-edge innovations in predictive analytics, digital twins, and real-time freight optimization.

Moderator: Nate Smith, Epicenter
Speakers:
Joel Tracy, IMC Companies
Daniel Booth, Straightline
Adam Smith, FedEx Data & Technology

What’s Next for America’s Ports

The pandemic brought historic backlogs at U.S. ports, followed by sharp declines in container traffic as tariffs and shifting trade flows reshaped global supply chains. This panel will feature leaders from FedEx, the Port of Memphis, Port NOLA, and the Georgia Ports Authority in a candid discussion on the volatility facing America’s ports and what lies ahead. Panelists will explore the role ports play in national infrastructure, the economic impact of shifting cargo flows, and major investments like Louisiana’s new Intermodal Terminal in St. Bernard Parish that aim to position the Gulf South for the future.

Moderator: Jen Amos, Dunavant Logistics
Speakers:
Randy Richardson, Port of Memphis
Amanda Coates, Port NOLA
Parrish Lawler, Alabama Port Authority
Louis Terdan, NW Seaport Alliance

Introduction 

Michael Scott, Riverhorse Logistics

Keynote

Donna Lemm
Chief Strategy Officer, IMC Companies

Get answers to your most pressing questions from a stellar panel of industry experts across logistics, ports, trade, AI, startups, and policy.

Speakers:
Dustin Crick, The Armstrong Company
Eric Ellis, CMC Logistics
Suzanne Drumwright, Limber Robotics
Andrew Hooser, Blue Current
Melzie Wilson, Global Zolutions
Richard Mallory, Mallory Alexander International Logistics

The Southern Corridor’s Role in US Manufacturing Revival

This panel explores how Southern states are capitalizing on nearshoring, reshoring, and advanced manufacturing trends through inland port and infrastructure investment.

Moderator: Tyler Chaffee, TVA
Speakers:
Kel Kearns, Amplify Cell Technologies
Eric Watkins, Union Pacific Railroad
Bill Dunavant, Dunavant Logistics
Janine Mansour, Port NOLA

How the Mid-South Is Rebuilding America’s Transportation Backbone

Transportation leaders from Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana will discuss how the Mid-South corridor is strengthening America’s logistics network through strategic investment, innovation, and collaboration. This fireside conversation will explore infrastructure priorities, workforce challenges, and the shared vision that’s positioning the South as the nation’s next transportation powerhouse.

Moderator: Ted Townsend, Greater Memphis Chamber
Speakers:
Commissioner Willie Simmons, Mississippi Department of Transportation
Dan Pallme, TN Department of Transportation
TBD, Arkansas Department of Transportation

Closing Remarks + Sponsor Recognition

Duncan Williams
Founder and Chairman, Duncan Williams Asset Management

Corner Bar at The Peabody Memphis

149 Union Ave #4, Memphis, TN 38103