TTI Names Vince Mantero Director of the Center for Ports and Waterways as Jim Kruse Retires After 23 Years of Leadership

The Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) has named Vince Mantero as the next director of the TTI Center for Ports and Waterways (CPW), effective September 8, 2025. Mantero will succeed Jim Kruse, who has led the CPW since 2002 and will retire at the end of October after more than two decades of service. Kruse will continue to serve in a part-time advisory capacity following his retirement.

Following a national search, Mantero joins TTI from the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration, where he served as director of the Office of Ports and Waterways Planning. Based in the Washington, D.C., area, he plans to position CPW to capitalize on new and emerging maritime opportunities from the nation’s capital.

With more than 25 years of experience in maritime and freight policy, planning and program management, Mantero has held prior leadership roles with the Federal Highway Administration’s Office of Freight Management and Operations, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and in the private sector, supporting public agencies on freight systems planning and infrastructure investment strategies.

“We are excited to welcome Vince to TTI,” said Curtis Morgan, TTI senior research scientist and head of TTI’s Freight and Trade Division. “His expertise and national perspective will help position CPW for continued success as we look to the future of ports and waterways research.”

Kruse has led the CPW for 23 years, shaping it into a nationally recognized hub for maritime research and development. Under his leadership, the CPW has improved mobility, safety and economic competitiveness throughout Texas and the nation. Beyond his work at TTI, Kruse has contributed to the field through service on numerous boards, including chairing the Marine Group for the Transportation Research Board (2018-21), serving two terms on the Marine Transportation System National Advisory Committee (2015-21) and leading the Transportation Research Board’s Consensus Study Committee on Best Practices for the Efficient Supply of Chassis for Transporting Intermodal Containers.

“Jim’s leadership has left a lasting impact on CPW and the broader maritime community,” said Morgan. “His vision, dedication and guidance have shaped the CPW into the strong, respected institution it is today.”

Kruse will remain with TTI during the leadership transition before his retirement at the end of October. He will continue to serve in a part-time advisory capacity following his retirement.