PARTNERSHIP. PRIDE. PROSPERITY.
At the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones, we connect global businesses with local communities through the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) Program. Our membership—which is comprised of public entities, public and private companies and individuals—works together to foster business growth, economic development, and U.S. employment.
FTZ Facts from the 2024 Foreign Trade Zones Board Annual Report (the most recent available)
IN MERCHANDISE RECEIVED
IN EXPORTS FROM FTZS
Source: 2024 FTZ Board Annual Report
Our Vision
To serve our members and partners as the premier U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones advocacy and educational organization, though public-private partnerships to promote the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Program as an economic development tool for job creation and investment.
Our Mission
The National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ), an association of public and private members, is the collective voice of the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Program. The NAFTZ is the Program’s principal educator and the leader in demonstrating the program’s value and role in the changing environment of international trade. NAFTZ is instrumental in supporting economic development objectives and global competitiveness of its members by providing a forum for disseminating relevant information, and advocacy support on international trade issues.
Our Leadership
Our Board of Directors is a distinguished group of volunteers who bring experience, diversity, and passion in trade. Our members elect the Board to provide strategic direction to the Association. Board members also serve as ambassadors for the Association.
Over the years, the NAFTZ has been privileged to extend honorary life memberships to individuals who have had a significant impact on the FTZ community. Honorary Life Members are elected by the recommendation of the Board of Directors and a majority vote of the members present at the Annual Business meeting. These individuals have served the NAFTZ in the capacity of a Director and Officer for a minimum of four terms; provided exceptional leadership for the NAFTZ; and although retired from the NAFTZ Board of Directors they have remained active participants and contributors to the NAFTZ.
NAFTZ also acknowledges and offers profound gratitude for the selfless service of the Past Chairpersons of the Association.
Honorary Life Members are elected by the Board of Directors. These individuals have served the NAFTZ in the capacity of a Director and Officer for a minimum of eight (8) years; provided exceptional leadership; and remain active participants and contributors to the NAFTZ.
About Our Team
Board of Directors
Katie Tangman
Chair
Patricia Cannon
Vice-Chair
Leigh Ryan
Treasurer
Robert Balli
Secretary
William Cawthern
Director
Danielle Converse
Director
Shana Head
Director
Ileana Klepeisz
Director
Sean Lydon
Director
Sarah Messeih
Director
Jessica Miserendino
Director
Christopher Smith
Director
Kelly Steward
Director
Miguel Zamora
Director
James Grogan
Immediate Past Chair
Trey Boring
Parlementarian
Staff
Jeffrey Tafel
President
Victoria Cartwright
CMP, Vice President of Events and Education
Kristine Wells
Director of Communications & Member Services
Melissa Irmen
Director of Advocacy and Strategic Relations
Olivia McDonald
Operations and Programs Coordinator