Beardsley took the helm of what he calls “Minnesota’s world port” in May after more than a decade as its CFO. Two years ago, the Duluth-Superior Port launched a transatlantic freight service that connects Duluth to Antwerp, Belgium, and the Mediterranean. In 2024, the port’s export cargo rose 17%, driven by gains in spring wheat and petroleum coke. “Regional manufacturers are using this service to reach global markets,” Beardsley says. In 2026, Beardsley hopes to develop a new strategic plan and to diversify the cargo portfolio.