Port Welcomes New Port Director

Todd Nicholson – Contributed photo

The Port of Friday Harbor Commission and staff are pleased to welcome Todd Nicholson as the new Executive Director at the Port of Friday Harbor, beginning July 5. After evaluation of more than 35 applications from around the country, Todd was chosen as the most qualified candidate to lead the Port.

A native of the northwest, Todd graduated from Tillamook High School in Oregon. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., graduating with honors and earning a Bachelor’s of Science in civil engineering. He served in the infantry of the United States Army as a platoon leader, executive officer, and operations officer.

Upon returning home to the Northwest in 1991, Mr. Nicholson created and managed a land surveying and development company until joining the Bonneville Power Administration in 2009. At BPA he served as the acquisition surveying supervisor and the manager of the civil engineering department.

He is a passionate advocate for building effective community partnerships, economic development, and empowering talented staff. Todd is an avid sailor and fisherman in his free time. He and his son are excited about becoming active members of the vibrant Friday Harbor community.

Todd commented that, “It would be hard to overstate how excited I am about joining the community of Friday Harbor. For over 30 years I’ve been coming to the San Juan Islands and this has always been the place that feels like home to me. I anticipate the most rewarding aspect of this position will be working with the Port staff in partnership with the broader community. The Port exists solely for the benefit of the San Juan Island community. I am looking forward to the intentional and consistent community engagement that allows us to be true to that mission.”

“I would like to thank Phyllis Johnson for having the courage to lead the Port during a difficult period. She along with the Port leadership team have been exceptional over the past months and have set the stage for what I believe is an exciting path forward for the Port and community.”

The Port Commission and staff look forward to working with Todd to engage the community in strategic planning and moving the organization forward.

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