WTDC Newsletter – February 14, 2025
In this week’s newsletter, please find the following headlines:
- U.S. imposes new Aluminum and Steel tariffs
- President’s Corner: PAW and Moodie Davitt Super Star
- PortMiami Handles Record Breaking Number of Cruise Ships
- Vendor Spotlight – LTL Express
- Intern Spotlight
- Sean Gazitua Recognized with two Moodie Davitt Super Star Awards
- Panther Alumni Week
- Live Like Bella 5k
President’s Corner
I was on FIU’s campus last week for Panther Alumni Week (PAW), an opportunity for FIU Alumni to share our professional experiences, offer career advice, encourage participation in school clubs and activities, connect with faculty, and answer student questions.
I am also very grateful to have been awarded two Travel Retail Superstar by The Moodie Davitt Report. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and camaraderie of Team WTDC.
This year is shaping up to be a big one for WTDC, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Stay healthy,
Sean Gazitua, President & CEO
U.S. imposes new Aluminum and Steel tariffs
On February 10th, President Donald Trump signed two Executive Orders increasing tariffs on steel and aluminum from 10% to 25%, expanding on 2018 Section 232 trade policies that previously included country and product-specific exemptions These exemptions for Canada, Mexico, China, and others will now be removed.
Additionally, goods subject to the new tariffs must be admitted into Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) under privileged foreign status, meaning they will remain subject to duties even if processed or manufactured into other products before U.S. entry. Duty drawback will also not be eligible for the effected shipments These tariffs will take effect March 12, 2025.
Reuters: Trump to announce 25% steel and aluminum tariffs in latest trade escalation
PortMiami Handles Record Breaking Number of Cruise Ships
On February 8th, PortMiami achieved another milestone: docking 10 cruise ships in a single day. An estimated 68,000 passengers passing through the Port on February 8. The cruises ranged from the worlds biggest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, along with vessels from Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, Oceania, Virgin Voyages, and Holland America.
The Maritime Executive: PortMiami Handles Record Number of Cruise Ships in a Single Day
Vendor Spotlight – LTL Express
On February 7th, WTDC was pleased to name LTL Express Inc. as our Vendor of the Month! LTL Express has been a reliable trucking partner since 2018, providing exceptional service and enhancing WTDC’s transportation network.
Special thanks to Miguel Gonzalez, VP of Operations at LTL Express Inc., for joining us at our Monthly Awards Ceremony, he is pictured with Castell Chavez, WTDC Transportation Manager. We look forward to continuing this great partnership!
Intern Spotlight
Welcome Amanda Garcia, New WTDC Sales and Marketing Intern!
Ms. Garcia is a sophomore at Florida International University majoring in International Business and is expected to graduate in 2027. Amanda is an involved member of the International Business Honor Society (IBHS) and travels to India this month on the FIU IBHS Bandhwari Project.
Welcome to the team Amanda!
Sean Gazitua Recognized with two Moodie Davitt Super Star Awards
WTDC President & CEO Sean Gazitua was recognized as a Travel Retail Superstar by The Moodie Davitt Report in two distinguished categories:
Humanity, Leadership & Inspiration – Back Office – Americas: “A standout example of leadership excellence, Sean continues to guide the company toward success while championing innovation and community service.”
Star Individual Award – Back Office – Americas: “Sean embodies passion, purpose, and professionalism, defining him as an exceptional Star Individual. His dedication and example inspire others to give back and support their communities.”
Congratulations, Sean on this well-deserved award!
Panther Alumni Week
On February 4th, WTDC President and CEO Sean Gazitua had the opportunity to speak to The Honors College at Florida International University (FIU) First Year Experience class as part of Panther Alumni Week. It was an inspiring session where he shared his journey post-graduation, the importance of getting involved on campus, and how internships can open doors to future careers.
Thank you to FIU Honors College for the invitation. WTDC is proud to support the next generation of leaders!
Live Like Bella 5k
On February 8th, WTDC employees, friends, and families participated in the Live Like Bella Superhero 5k at Tropical Park. As proud sponsors of this year’s event, WTDC supports Live Like Bella’s mission to fund research and assist families impacted by childhood cancer.
Live Like Bella made significant strides in 2024, funding research in collaboration with FIU that successfully treated a patient with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia. This personalized treatment has transformed the fight against childhood cancer, offering hope for families worldwide.
Team WTDC is enthusiastic to continue this partnership for years to come.
