Click here to watch the interview
Adams and Reese Government Affairs Advisor Laura DiBella was a featured guest on a Yachting USA podcast. DiBella joined host Rick Thomas to share her insights into the business dynamics of the maritime industry.
The two also explored port operations; intersection of aerospace and maritime; impact of the pandemic on harbor pilots; challenges facing North American shipyards; importance of manufacturing in economic development; future of waterfront property; and how vocational training is shaping the industry’s workforce.
At Adams and Reese, DiBella represents clients in economic development and at the intersection of business and government. She provides clients with legislative and executive branch representation, economic development strategy and consulting, site selection, recruitment and retention project assistance, international trade, venture capital, and knowledge of the processes of the State of Florida government. DiBella works with businesses looking to relocate into Florida, maximizing their investment opportunities. She is also experienced in business development, project management, marketing, planning, public relations, and public speaking.
Recently, DiBella was selected for an “Above & Beyond” award from the News Service of Florida, a daily publication covering state government, economy, policy, and politics. This award recognizes the 50 most influential Florida female leaders for their professional achievements and community contributions.
DiBella was Florida’s first female Secretary of Commerce. Additionally, DiBella was the former President of Business Development at FloridaCommerce; President/CEO at Enterprise Florida; President of the Florida Opportunity Fund (Florida’s Venture Capital arm), gaining knowledge of the state funded startup ecosystem; Executive Director of Florida Harbor Pilots Association; Port Director of Port of Fernandina Ocean Highway and Port Authority; and Executive Director of Nassau County Economic Development Board. She has also been a Florida licensed real estate broker for over 20 years.
DiBella has formerly served in leadership positions in the Aerospace Alliance, FDOT Freight Advisory Committee, Florida State College at Jacksonville District Board of Trustees, Florida Ocean Alliance Board, Florida Economic Development Council Florida 2030 Task Force, U.S. Constitution Scholarship Foundation Advisory Committee, MARAD America’s Marine Highway Advisory Panel, and FEMA National Business Emergency Operations Center.