This month’s episode of Economic Development Secrets features Michael Collins, President and CEO of Port KC. In this capacity he is responsible for the strategic direction, organizational leadership and sustainability of the public interest development organization.
Michael currently oversees the quasi-governmental organization that is spearheading a diversified portfolio of transportation, trade, commerce and real estate development business lines; including, waterfront development along the Missouri River; creating intermodal inland port facilities; and enhancing river borne freight along the Missouri River regionally and internationally.
Previously, Michael served as a senior aide to Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond in Washington, D.C., and Kansas City, Mo. In this capacity, he was a senior advisor on transportation, economic development and commerce, financial services and appropriations policy.
Michael holds a degree in political science from Park University, an MBA from Rockhurst University and attended executive education at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard.
He currently serves as the chair for the Board of Trustees at Park University; is a member on the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Economic Advisory Council, Kansas City Streetcar Authority, KC SmartPort; and the Inland Rivers, Ports and Terminal (IRPT) trade association and The First Tee of Greater Kansas City.
Michael and his wife (Molly), have three children (Isabella, Olivia and Landon).
