Host: Andy Shiles, Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s): Madison Lackey
Published: June 11, 2026
Length: 46:08
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary

Breaking into international trade can feel overwhelming, especially at a time when tariffs, enforcement, AI, and shifting regulations are changing the industry almost daily. In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Madison Lackey back to the show to discuss what it is really like to enter the trade compliance field as a young professional.

Madison shares her path from studying agriculture business at Cal Poly to earning her customs broker license and becoming a trade compliance consultant at Blue Tiger International. She offers honest insight into the pressure new graduates face, the importance of slowing down before choosing a job, and why certifications, conferences, networking, and mentorship can make a major difference.

The conversation also explores foreign trade zones, the growing knowledge gap as experienced professionals retire, and why young people have a major opportunity to step into the industry now. For students, early-career professionals, and managers building the next generation of trade talent, this episode offers practical advice and a fresh perspective.

Main Topic / Discussion

This episode focuses on career development in international trade compliance, especially for younger professionals entering the field. Madison Lackey discusses how her education, broker license, certifications, conference networking, and willingness to take on uncomfortable opportunities helped her build momentum early in her career.

The discussion also highlights the current complexity of trade compliance, including tariffs, CBP enforcement, foreign trade zones, AI, and the retirement of experienced professionals. Madison emphasizes that this is a challenging but promising time to enter the industry because companies need people who can research, ask questions, build relationships, and adapt quickly.

Key Takeaways

• The customs broker license and CCS certification can provide a strong foundation, even for professionals who do not plan to work as brokers.
• Young professionals should look beyond job titles and salary to understand company culture, responsibility, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
• Conferences, webinars, certifications, and networking can help build credibility and open career doors.
• Foreign trade zones are becoming more relevant as companies look for legal ways to manage duty and tariff exposure.
• Relationship-building with CBP, agencies, colleagues, and mentors is essential in a fast-changing compliance environment.
• Managers should challenge newer employees with meaningful work, not busy work, so they can build real-world skills.

Resources & Mentions

• Global Training Center
• Blue Tiger International
• International Compliance Professionals Association
• National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones
• Cal Poly

Credits

Host:
Andy Shiles – LinkedIn
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Guest(s):
Madison Lackey – LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

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