On February 8, the Oregon Senate Rules Committee approved Governor Kotek’s appointment of Sam P. Johnson to the Port of Portland Commission.
"Sam’s operations experience and deep understanding of technology will bring great value to the Port of Portland Commission," said Curtis Robinhold, Port of Portland executive director. "I’m eager to hear his perspective on the issues we face, and on how the Port can continue to help shape the region, drive innovation, and create more opportunities for people who live and work in our community."
Johnson is vice president of Manufacturing and Operations and general manager of Facilities Technology Development at Intel Corporation, which he joined in 2020. Johnson came to Intel from the Raytheon Company, where he served as global business services senior director of facilities and real estate for the company’s missile systems business. Throughout his career at Raytheon, Johnson held several leadership positions, as well as program manager and chief engineer, as well as site leadership positions at Raytheon’s Space and Airborne Systems Manufacturing Center. He began his career in 1996 at Hughes Missile Systems Co. in Tuscon, Ariz.
A recognized industry expert with over 20 years of experience, Johnson received the Excellence in Operations Award in 2006 for his support in developing and implementing facilities production contingency strategies during Hurricane Katrina. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the International Facility Management Association, National Society of Black Engineers and the Oregon Business Council. Johnson earned bachelor’s degrees in mechanical & aerospace engineering from Tuskegee University and an MBA from Jackson State University.
"I am excited to join the Port of Portland as a new commissioner at an exciting time for the organization," said Johnson. "I look forward to leveraging my past experience as we continue to unlock new opportunities for the City of Portland and State of Oregon."
Johnson fills the vacancy left by Alice Cuprill-Comas, Commission president. Other members of the Commission are Michael Alexander, Commission vice president; Katy Coba, Commission treasurer; Ketan Sampat, Commission secretary; Mike DeVaughn, Katherine Lam; Richelle Luther; Meg Niemi; and Stuart Strader.
The nine-member Port Commission meets monthly. At least two commissioners must each live in one of the three counties in the Port district (Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties). The remaining members may live in any part of the state. Commissioners are unpaid volunteers who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and can be reappointed for an additional term. Commission presidents are selected by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Commission appoints the Port's executive director.
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