Will Isom is a lifelong Clatsop County resident who grew up in Knappa, Oregon. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Business with an emphasis in Accounting from Oregon State University, along with a minor in Athletic Administration. Will is also a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), bringing a strong financial and analytical foundation to his leadership role at the Port of Astoria.

Will began his professional career as an intern at the Georgia-Pacific Wauna Mill, where he gained firsthand experience in large-scale industrial operations and was later promoted to a full-time Cost Analyst. In 2010, he joined Columbia Memorial Hospital, working in the accounting department and collaborating with leadership and operational teams across the organization on budgeting, financial reporting, and capital improvement initiatives. These roles helped shape his understanding of how sound financial management supports long-term organizational stability and growth.

In early 2015, Will joined the Port of Astoria’s finance department. Over the following years, he served in multiple leadership capacities, including Finance Director, gaining broad exposure to Port operations, capital projects, tenant relations, and strategic planning. In June 2019, the Port of Astoria Commission appointed Will as Interim Executive Director, and after six months in that role, the Commission formally named him Executive Director in December 2019.

As a Clatsop County native and long-time resident, Will places a high value on the Port’s responsibility as an economic engine for the region. He views the Port as a catalyst for economic development—supporting maritime commerce, industrial growth, aviation activity, and waterfront redevelopment that collectively help create and sustain family-wage jobs. Will is particularly focused on ensuring that the Port’s investments and policies contribute to long-term economic resilience, workforce opportunity, and regional competitiveness.

Will approaches the role of Executive Director with a long-term perspective, recognizing that meaningful economic development requires patience, strategic planning, and consistent follow-through. He often notes that the work is never truly finished, and believes that maintaining a clear vision for the future—while balancing near-term operational needs—is essential to the Port’s success. Under his leadership, emphasis is placed on financial stewardship, infrastructure investment, and partnerships that align the Port’s assets with the broader economic goals of Clatsop County and the surrounding region.

Will and his family reside just east of Astoria in Svensen. He remains actively involved in the community, serving on the Knappa School Board and coaching youth sports. In his leadership role at the Port, Will is committed to public service, transparency, and community engagement. He believes the Port serves best when it listens to stakeholders, communicates openly with the public, and works collaboratively with local, regional, and state partners to support sustainable economic growth and a strong future for the community.

In his leadership role at the Port, Will believes in his duty to serve the community. He wants to do his best to keep the public informed and encourage involvement and feedback from county residents. Speaking on behalf of all employees at the Port, he says: