Dave Matsuda is a nationally recognized expert in transportation and maritime policy, bringing over 25 years of experience in leadership, oversight, and collaboration with federal transportation agencies. His extensive background has given him a deep understanding of how the federal government navigates critical transportation decisions.

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As the 17th U.S. Maritime Administrator, Dave oversaw more than $1 billion in federal investments supporting U.S. ports, shipyards, and shipbuilding projects. Under his leadership, the Maritime Administration emphasized maritime education and industry innovation, reinforcing one of the sector’s greatest strengths—its workforce of dedicated professionals.

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Before his tenure at the Maritime Administration, Dave played a key role in advancing high-speed rail and other national transportation initiatives. He served as the Assistant U.S. Secretary for Transportation Policy at USDOT and as Chief Transportation Advisor to U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg. His federal career also included positions with the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, as well as serving as a safety law attorney with the Federal Railroad Administration.

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Recognizing the needs of some of the most vulnerable in the maritime industry, Dave founded the Small Shipyard Grant Coalition in 2015 to help restart and sustain a critical federal grant program supporting small businesses. Today, he advises public and private organizations of all sizes, providing strategic guidance on federal policy, grants, legislative affairs, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure development.

 

Dave holds a B.S. in Engineering from Harvey Mudd College and a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law.

 

Practice Areas: Transportation, Maritime, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Grants and Funding