John Akre worked in the maritime shipping industry for 45 years, with the last 26 being with the Port of Portland marine department.. During his tenure with the Port, John led the marine operations and commercial groups. John retired from the Port in 2026 as the Marine Director.
In 1988, the Port of Portland joined the seven state wheat commissions from Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota to create the Wheat Marketing Center. The Port has played an active role on the Board of Directors to develop programs and priorities. John has served on the board since 2003, and as Treasurer since 2013. He notes that wheat continues to be the major export moving through the Port and that the Wheat Marketing Center plays a key role as a “bridge” connecting growers and customers through its education and research programs.