The Port of Tacoma has selected Louis P. Cooper Jr. as Director of Maintenance, according to a statement released Sept. 1. As Director of Maintenance, Cooper oversees all Port maintenance activities, including facilities, cranes, straddle carriers and mobile equipment – all under the care of more than 80 skilled maintenance employees.

“A well-run and efficient Maintenance Department is critical to the success of the Port and the success of our customers,” said John Wolfe, the Port’s Deputy Executive Director. “Louis brings a wide-ranging record of successful leadership to this important position.”

Before joining the Port, Cooper was Director of Housing Operations and Property Management for the Tacoma Housing Authority, where he oversaw leasing, property management and maintenance, including resident services and family and supportive services. Cooper was responsible for approximately 1,500 housing units and seven senior citizen high rise buildings.

Cooper brings 25-plus years experience in senior-level management to the Port. He has received several national awards from organizations such as the National Police Foundation, United Way and numerous awards for his regional work with minority and women businesses. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Physical Education from Doane College of Crete Nebraska, and a Master of Science degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is also a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School for Executive Management for Corrections Officials, the University of Washington Executive Management Program for Public Policy and Management, and the State of Washington Career Executive Program.

Cooper is a member of the National Football League Players Association Retired Players, the Urban League, the Tacoma Pierce County Black Collective, St. John’s Baptist Church, and he is a former Advisory Board Member of the University of Washington School of Business and Economic Development Program.