By Tim Clifford

Early last week, on July 22, it was announced that Linda Styrk, managing director of the maritime division for the Port of Seattle, will leave her position to take over as the executive director for the Puget Sound Pilots. Styrk holds a Third Mate’s license with the U.S. Coast Guard and is married to a guide pilot.

“The Puget Sound Pilots are delighted to have Linda Styrk as our next Executive Director. She has a unique combination of sailing and maritime business background. Her understanding of what it takes for Puget Sound ports to compete successfully, her knowledge of ship operations, and her stature across the industry is extraordinary. She will be an outstanding ambassador for pilots and for our industry,” said David Grobshmit, President of the Puget Sound Pilots on their website.

She will be succeeding current Walt Tabler, who has held the position for the last 12 years.

After graduating from the California Maritime Academy with a BS in Nautical Industrial Technology Styrk began her career in Seattle in 2005. She has held numerous titles within the Port including Director Container Marketing and Director of Strategic and Facilities Planning.

As quoted on the Puget Sound Pilot’s website Styrk said of her new position “Besides being critical to marine safety and security, the pilots are key to the efficient flow of 80 billion dollars of commerce through our port gateway each year. The pilots are a critical piece of how we compete as a region for more maritime jobs, and I am looking forward to helping the Pilots, and the region, grow our marine economy.”