Thomas Overacker

Executive Director, Cargo and Conveyance Security (CCS)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Thomas Overacker is the Executive Director of Cargo and Conveyance Security (CCS) at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Headquarters in Washington, DC. In this key role, Mr. Overacker provides leadership for the daily operations of CBP’s cargo processing, enforcement, and trade operations at Ports of Entry and Centers of Excellence and Expertise (Centers). He oversees port processes through new technology and expanded partnerships, including procurement and deployment of Non-Intrusive Inspection technology. As the foundation of CBP’s cargo processes, which include the Customs Trade Partnership against Terrorism and the Container Security Initiative, CCS ensures border security and facilitates legitimate trade and travel.

Mr. Overacker previously served as the Assistant Director of the National Targeting Center (NTC), Cargo Division, where he oversaw daily operations for tactical targeting of high-risk cargo. He was responsible for developing and implementing risk assessment methodologies for all cargo related targeting activities, including oversight of the Automated Targeting System cargo modules. He established the Integrated Trade Targeting Network, an operational network between all of CBP’s targeting assets, to improve communications, coordinate actions, and standardize procedures for more effective enforcement. Mr. Overacker played a critical role in the Air Cargo Advance Screening pilot and CBP’s collaboration with the Transportation Security Administration.

Mr. Overacker began his career with the U.S. Customs Service in 1997 as an Import Specialist in Cleveland. While part of the Office of Trade, he led the project team that created CBP’s industry-based Centers, the organizational structure and operating model for processing trade. He also served as Operations Manager in the Office of Intelligence where he managed programs for security targeting, and laid the groundwork for integrating the latest intelligence information into CBP’s risk-based processes.

Mr. Overacker graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations. He has completed the American University, Key Executive Leadership Program, and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Senior Managers in Government Certificate Program.

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