Posted on September 30, 2025
2025 WEDA Eastern Chapter Meeting
DoubleTree by Hilton, Portland, ME – October 14–16, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce an outstanding lineup of guest speakers for the upcoming WEDA Eastern Chapter Meeting! These leaders bring deep expertise in maritime infrastructure, coastal resilience, logistics, and workforce development—critical themes for the future of dredging and waterfront communities.
Featured Speaker: Colonel Justin R. Pabis, PE, New England District Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Colonel Pabis leads the New England District in delivering civil works and infrastructure across six states. With over 20 years of military engineering experience—including combat, strategic planning, and coastal resilience—he brings a powerful perspective on the Corps’ priorities for dredging, beneficial use, and regional infrastructure development.
Welcome Speaker: Matthew Burns, Deputy Director, Office of Freight and Business Logistics, MaineDOT
Matthew brings global maritime experience and leads Maine’s freight and port planning efforts, including offshore wind logistics. He’ll offer a forward-looking view of Maine’s evolving maritime infrastructure.
Keynote Speaker: Janet Waldron, VP for Financial & Institutional Services, CFO – Maine Maritime Academy
Janet will explore the intersection of maritime education, infrastructure investment, and workforce development—highlighting MMA’s role in shaping the future of the maritime industry.
Women of WEDA Luncheon Guest Speaker: Chelsea E. Pettengill, Executive Director, Maine Port Authority
From sea to shore, Chelsea’s journey exemplifies the dynamic roles women play in maritime leadership. She’ll share her vision for Maine’s port development and international logistics strategy.
Bissell Brothers Social Event Guest Speaker: Stacey Keefer, Executive Director, Maine Marine Trades Association
Stacey will highlight Maine’s collaborative maritime culture and the revitalization of its working waterfronts—key to sustaining resilient coastal communities.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the region’s top maritime minds.
Eastern Chapter Conference Details
When:
Tuesday, October 14th at 8 AM
-to-
Thursday, October 16th at 12:00 Noon
Registration:
The registration fee structure is as follows:
WEDA Member: $400
Non-member: $500
Gov’t Employee: $400
Courses: $150 each
- Dredging 101
- Dredging 201
Students: $200 for qualifying students
Where:Double Tree by Hilton
363 Maine Mall Road
South Portland, ME 04106
Phone: (available 24 hours a day)
1-207-775-6161
Be sure to ask for “WEDA Western Dredging Association”.
Online: CLICK HERE
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland, ME is conveniently located off I-95 just one mile from the Portland International Jetport (PWM). The DoubleTree by Hilton hotel is located just minutes from downtown Portland, Maine’s largest and most diverse city. Portland’s Old Port area offers dozens of unique shops, boutiques and area attractions. Portland’s Old Port District features many restaurants and boutique shops strolling along the historic Cobblestone streets from the Eastern Promenade to the majestic waterfront.
