March 20, 2025
Black History Month may be over, but the Port of Seattle celebrates the accomplishments of our amazing team members all year long.
African Americans have played a crucial role in shaping labor history, particularly in transportation, logistics, and infrastructure. Today, the Port honors this legacy by working to advance equity in the workplace, ensuring that all employees have access to opportunities for growth, leadership, and success in the maritime and aviation industries.
Read about the journeys of two Port employees who play essential roles in maintaining and advancing Port operations.
Katrina Taplin, Bus Driver
Katrina is currently a bus driver at the Port of Seattle Rental Car Facility. She is responsible for transporting passengers safely efficiently, providing excellent customer service, and
maintaining high safety standards.
Katrina began her career as a professional driver for the Tukwila School District before becoming a transit operator for King County Metro, serving the greater Seattle area. Her excellence in these roles earned her several honors, including the Good Service Award and the Safe Driving Award.
Katrina later joined the Port as a landside supervisor intern, overseeing daily landside operations, coordinating with various departments, and ensuring the smooth transit of passengers. However, her passion for driving interacting with passengers led her to return to her role as a bus driver.
One of Katrina’s most memorable moments was receiving a heartfelt thank you letter from a passenger who praised her kindness and professionalism. This experience reinforced her commitment outstanding service and left a lasting impact.
Breaking stereotypes
As a Black woman working in the transportation industry, Katrina has worked to break stereotypes and advocate for equal opportunities. Despite these hurdles, her resilience and determination have propelled her forward.
Katrina credits her mentors, including former experienced colleagues, for their invaluable guidance and support. Their mentorship has shaped her career and helped her navigate the industry’s complexities.
She advises those entering the field to stay focused on goals, seek mentors, and never hesitate to voice their opinions. She believes that perseverance and a supportive network can lead to significant accomplishments.
Personal interests
Outside of work, Katrina cherishes spending quality time with her family. She enjoys candle making and entrepreneurship, which allow her to express her creativity and business acumen.
Michael Whiteside, Construction Project Manager 1
Michael currently works as a construction project manager on the Port Construction Services (PCS) team. He manages smaller construction projects and assists with larger, more complex ones.
Before joining the Port, Michael worked as a laborer at the Seattle School District for six months. In October 2021, he joined the Port as a union laborer on the PCS crew, where he spent a couple years learning the trade. After completing an internal internship as a construction project manager in 2023, Michael applied for an open Construction Project Manager 1 position and emerged as the top candidate. Since then, he has been a key member of the team.
During his time at PCS, Michael has made notable contributions, including:
- Reworking checkpoints 2 and 3 to update them with Automated Screening Lanes (ASLs)
- Earning certification as an Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Building Inspector to help manage and test hazardous materials
- Collaborating with PCS crew members to complete the Pier 69 lobby video wall
- Working on the Terminal 86 Shoreline Restoration Project, which strengthened his bonds with his crew and had a positive environmental impact
Navigating the workforce as a Black laborer
As a Black laborer at the Port, Michael accessed resources that helped him explore career pathways in construction. The Port’s internal internship program, where employees spend time learning about another department, introduced him to construction management, providing a broader perspective on the industry.
Navigating the workforce as a minority presented challenges, but Michael found a fulfilling career path. His willingness to learn and openness to feedback helped him succeed.
Mentors and role models
Mentors and role models have played a significant role in Michael's career. His colleague and fellow construction project manager Justin Williams guided him and provided insight into the construction industry. Through Justin's mentorship, Michael gained new perspectives that helped him grow professionally.
For those entering the field, Michael advises being open to learning and trying new experiences, even if they feel outside their comfort zone. He believes such experiences foster personal and professional growth.
Personal interests
Outside of work, Michael enjoys science fiction films, finding new restaurants, and road trips.
Appreciation
We express our heartfelt appreciation to Michael for his unwavering dedication and contributions to the Port and the broader community. Thank you for being an inspiration to us all.
