Blog Archives

Blog Archives

Collin Michels

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I originally came across the transportation and logistics field during my time with UPS from 2017-2022. Although my positions were less involved at the time, I learned about the wider industry and eventually found a position with Nankai Transport as a customs entry writer in 2022.

Since then, I have been constantly working to better my knowledge of customs brokerage through all the many resources available in this field.

My primary role with Nankai is a little more specialized, prioritizing entry submissions for pharmaceutical shipments and ensuring timely release and delivery. Communicating with USDA and FDA when necessary and coordinating with clients to ensure accuracy of documentation.

William Jansen

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William is a Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and is currently Director of Customs Brokerage at Seko Logistics. William has had over ten years of experience with US Customs Brokerage, including managing a customs brokerage & trade advisory operation of a top 50 global freight forwarder and overseeing a customs compliance program of a top 150 importer. William currently serves as the Chair for the National Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder’s Association Antidumping & Trade Remedy Subcommittee in addition to serving on the Trade Support Network.

Jay Doyle

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Jason Doyle (“Jay”) has spent nearly 30 years working in and around global trade.He served in various leadership roles at Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (America) and is currently a Sr. Operations Manager at Scoular Global Shipping.

Jonni Amidon

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Jonni Amidon has been a Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) and Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) since 2020 and is currently the Integrator at Reilly International. 

Jonni has worked in Customs Brokerage and freight forwarding since 2004.  Prior to joining Reilly in 2024, Jonni worked at SEKO as Director of Customs Brokerage and started her career as an entry writer at CBC Customshouse Brokers. Jonni volunteers with the CCBFA as Secretary, is the Chair of the Customs committee, member of the Golf and Holiday party committee. 

Dawn Devlet

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Hello, my name is Dawn Devlet. I first began my career in the Customs Brokerage/Freight Forwarding industry in 1997, and have held my Broker’s license since 2009. I am currently the Chicago Branch Manager for Alliance Customs Clearances Inc. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with my customers and team members in an industry that is constantly evolving and changing, I am dedicated to continuing my education to remain knowledgeable in order to best serve my client’s needs.

Sonia Aulakh

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Sonia owns and operates Sonia Aulakh CHB (Customs House Broker), a company certified by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for handling import transactions, compliance, and clearance services. The firm is a Certified Trade Partner Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), a member of the NCBFAA, and supports importers with FDA/USDA needs across commodities like food and pharmaceuticals. She has over 15 years of experience as a Customs House Broker there, following roles as Import Manager at Barthco International and Imports at Kuehne + Nagel.

Lisa Waller

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Lisa Victoria Waller is Vice President and co-owner of BDG International, Inc. located in Elgin (Chicago) Illinois. BDG International, Inc. (BDG) has been in business since 1983 and is an international freight forwarder, U.S. Customs Broker and Letter of Credit Specialist. BDG is a proud recipient of the President’s “E” Awards for Excellence in Exporting in 2013.

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David Forgue

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David has been an attorney practicing in the area of international trade and customs law for over 25 years. As an associate, then partner at Barnes, Richardson & Colburn David has presented countless education seminars to CCBFA membership. This continues a 50-year relationship between the CCBFA and Barnes/Richardson, stretching back to the 1970s.

In 2017 David became a licensed Customs broker through the Port of Chicago. He utilizes his broker’s license through Barnes Global Trade, which is a wholly-owned customs brokerage and consulting firm.

I would like to continue volunteering with the CCBFA because I have seen the very good work the group has done over the years. Continuing to provide a local outlet for the field to interact with the agencies, recruit new talent, and provide educational opportunities are all vital activities. I would like to do my part in continuing those efforts.

Wesley Peterson

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Wesley Peterson is the Licensed Customs Broker and Director of Compliance for Clutch Global Logistics, Inc. located in Lombard, IL.

He has enjoyed serving on the CCBFA Customs Committee, Legislative Committee, and is happy to serve on the CCBFA board. He looks forward to contributing to the development and advancement of CCBFA while being an active peer to its board of directors and members.

Thankful for opportunity to be on the CCBFA board of directors, Wesley is happy to help CCBFA continue its legacy in the Chicagoland area.

Cynthia Wheelock

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My career began in domestic transportation in 1985, and I transitioned to international in 1990. With over 27 years of combined experience, I have been actively engaged in customs brokerage operations, sales, and compliance. I secured my Customs Broker License in 1994. In my early years I was highly motivated, and applied my credentials as qualified permit and corporate license holder.

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