The continuing education (CE) requirements for customs brokers went into effect on January 1, 2025, and the trade landscape has been evolving rapidly ever since. How do the new CE requirements work and how can you use them to your best advantage?
Meet Our Speakers
Michael D. Easton
President & General Manager
Licensed Customs Broker
Michael D. Easton, a licensed customs broker, has been with Star USA since 2004, specializing in import/export compliance, export controls, and supply chain security. He is dedicated to developing sustainable compliance solutions and driving operational excellence for businesses of all sizes.
A sought-after speaker and trainer, Michael is passionate about educating professionals in customs compliance. He provides on-site training and has shared his expertise with organizations such as the International Freight Association, Cleveland Freight Association, Institute of Supply Management – Akron, The Ohio State University, and Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
Areas of Expertise
- AI and software in trade compliance
- CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism)
- EAR, ECCN, and export licensing
- EEI (electronic export information) filing
- Forced labor
- Import and export compliance
- Incoterms ® and landed costs
- Internal compliance programs
- International sanctions
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Restricted party screening
- Routed versus nonrouted exports
- Supply chain security and management
- USMCA and other free trade agreements
Jo Harper
Principal
Licensed Customs Broker
Jo Harper, a licensed customs broker, joined Star USA in 2010. She specializes in classification, valuation, duty preference programs, compliance, licensing, and reporting. Known for her ability to quickly resolve challenges, Jo helps clients navigate audits, disclosures, enforcement actions, and jurisdictional issues.
An experienced trainer and speaker, Jo simplifies complex trade compliance topics through webinars and on-site training. She teaches the Customs Broker Exam Prep Course and presents on ITAR, prior disclosures, and duty recovery. Passionate about supporting women in international trade, Jo mentors the next generation of trade professionals.
Areas of Expertise
- ACE
- AD/CVD (anti-dumping/countervailing duties)
- Becoming a licensed customs broker
- Classification
- Disclosures and prior disclosures
- Drawback
- ECCN & export licensing
- Export screening
- Modernized customs broker regulations
- Post-entry options
- Practicing reasonable care in trade compliance
- Trade preference programs
- U.S. goods returned & Chapter 98
- Valuation
Nic Arters
Director
Nic Arters specializes in Supply Chain Security and Import/Export Compliance. He transforms regulatory requirements into strategic business opportunities, helping organizations leverage compliance as a competitive advantage.
Nic integrates compliance into core business strategies, enhances operational efficiency, and drives cost savings. He partners with C-Suite executives and operational leaders to unlock new market opportunities, mitigate risks, and enhance brand reputation.
Outside of his professional life, Nic finds joy in the simple things. He cultivates a deep appreciation for the land and community and believes that people are at the heart of every success story.
Areas of Expertise
- Import and export compliance strategies
- Competitive advantage through compliance
- Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) implementation
- Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and licensing
- International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) compliance
- Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions navigation
- Free Trade Agreement utilization (e.g., USMCA, NAFTA)
- Internal compliance program development
- Risk management in global trade
- Denied party screening and due diligence
- Supply chain visibility and traceability
- Trade technology and automation solutions
- Export control reform implementation
- Trade data analytics and reporting
Why Choose our Speakers?
Our experts leverage decades of hands-on experience to provide your business or team with actionable trade compliance insights. In each session with our speakers, you can expect:
- 30+ years of combined experience
- Industry-leading insights
- Engaging & practical training
- Tailored content for your needs
Tessa W.
"It was a privilege learning from and connecting with you. Thank you for your presentation, it was eye opening!"
Robin F.
"Excellent training, interactive and easy to follow. The presenter spoke very clearly and is very knowledgeable. Thank you!"
Berta G.
"Thank you for sharing your real-world insights with us! I appreciate Mr. Easton for providing such valuable learning opportunities!"