Graduates of the program will be recognized during the NFI Board of Directors meeting in January of 2026 at the Global Seafood Market Conference

National Fisheries Institute Concludes Inaugural Board Leadership Program, Launching Next Generation of Seafood Industry Leaders

Reston, VA – The National Fisheries Institute has concluded the first year of its Board Leadership Certification Program. As part of its new Strategic Plan, NFI launched the classes in January to teach essential board skills and industry insights, as well as bring a collaborative perspective to enhance decision-making among industry leaders.

Developed in partnership with seafood industry veteran Derek Figueroa, President of North Star Strategic, the program is designed to equip participants with the skills and connections needed to secure board positions that will help actively shape the future of the seafood industry.

“We designed this program to develop strong leaders and serve as a catalyst for meaningful board service. Our goal was to equip participants with the skills, perspective, and networks to shape the future of our industry while advancing NFI’s strategic plan,” said Figueroa. “This inaugural class was a who’s who of seafood professionals who set a high bar. I’m proud of this group and am confident that their commitment to growth, leadership, and personal development will drive lasting impact on the industry and in their own careers.”

The six-month hybrid program was built around four core pillars: developing essential board skills, fostering a tight-knit leadership cohort, providing deep exposure to NFI’s work and priorities, and offering active support to help participants secure meaningful board service. The curriculum covered board structures, fiduciary duties, financial oversight, key committees, regulatory issues, strategic alignment, and future-focused topics like board performance and industry trends.

“We saw so many Future Leaders graduates in this first class, I couldn’t help but think of it as an industry master’s class,” said NFI President and CEO Lisa Wallenda Picard. “Given their rich backgrounds and clear interest in leading, the knowledge they’ve been given and the skills they’ve learned will be such a benefit to the industry as they pursue their own board positions.”

Graduates of the program will be recognized during the NFI Board of Directors meeting in January of 2026 at the Global Seafood Market Conference.  Recruiting for the second cohort of board leaders will begin in the Fall.

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