Transportation 2023: MICHAEL W. COLEMAN

In addition to leading CV International, his family-owned freight logistics and transportation company, Coleman is a Virginia Port Authority commissioner and chairs the century-old Virginia Maritime Association.

He’s also a board member of the Hampton Roads Shipping Association and sits on the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s Advisory Committee on International Trade. Coleman was appointed to the Virginia Board for Branch Pilots in 2019 and currently serves as its president, overseeing the licensing and regulation of harbor pilots in Virginia.

CV International has about 100 employees throughout the mid-Atlantic, including 55 in Virginia. It was established in 1984 by his father. Coleman was promoted to CEO in 2018. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond and a law degree from Louisiana State University.

ONE THING I’D CHANGE ABOUT VIRGINIA: Virginia needs to figure out a way to quickly establish shovel-ready sites for economic development opportunities, particularly in the Hampton Roads area.

HOW I BALANCE WORK AND PERSONAL LIFE: International shipping is a 24/7/365 commitment. It is important for me to be intentional about spending time with family and friends. A balanced life makes for a more successful life, both personally and professionally.