The maritime industry is gearing up for what promises to be a landmark event in 2026, and the clock is ticking for professionals to secure their spot at the Port of the Future Conference. With the early bird registration deadline looming on January 15, 2026, industry leaders, port executives, and maritime professionals are encouraged to act quickly to take advantage of significant savings.
Scheduled for March 24-25, 2026, at the Hilton University of Houston in Texas, this conference is set to be the most comprehensive gathering of the year. It will bring together leaders from over 60 seaports across the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. This event is not just another conference; it’s a critical forum for addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities in modern port operations and maritime innovation.
The 2026 conference boasts an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, including RADM James Watson, USCG (Ret.), co-author of “ZeroPointFour,” and MG Jason Kelly, Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Other notable speakers include Tricia Lucas, President of Armada Growth Partners, Stephen P. Metruck, Executive Director of the Port of Seattle, Capitán Manuel Gutiérrez Gallardo from the Mexican government, and Darwin Telemaque, CEO of the Antigua Port Authority and Chairman of PMAC.
The conference will feature nine comprehensive tracks covering a wide array of critical industry topics. These tracks include ensuring America’s maritime security, port development, intermodal connectivity, port infrastructure 4.0, enhancing operational efficiencies, decarbonization and alternative fuels, port energy and sustainability, port security, cybersecurity, emergency management, and advances in dredging technology and techniques. Each track is designed to provide in-depth insights and actionable strategies for attendees to implement in their own operations.
Beyond the educational sessions, the conference offers a range of special events to enhance the overall experience. Attendees can participate in a Port Grants Workshop on March 23, 2026, featuring interactive sessions with federal grant program managers from MARAD, FEMA, USCG, DOE, and EPA. There will also be a book signing event on March 24, 2026, where attendees can meet the authors of “ZeroPointFour: How U.S. Leadership in Maritime Will Secure America’s Future.” A networking reception on the same day will provide an opportunity for attendees to mingle with drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and live country music.
Additionally, a student research poster contest on March 25, 2026, will showcase cutting-edge research from university students in port and maritime domains. For those looking for a unique experience, an exclusive evening tour aboard the M/V Sam Houston is available, though spaces are limited to 96 participants.
As Andrea Olivi, Global Head of Shipping at Trafigura, remarked, “This partnership marks an important step in Trafigura’s commitment to improving efficiency and sustainability across its maritime operations.” This sentiment echoes the broader goals of the Port of the Future Conference, which aims to drive innovation and collaboration in the maritime sector.
Søren C. Meyer, CEO at ZeroNorth, added, “We’re proud to partner with Trafigura – one of the largest players in global commodity trading and shipping. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing the use of technology and high-quality data, sending a clear signal to the industry about the vital roles these play in the energy transition.”
The Port of the Future Conference is more than just an event; it’s a catalyst for change. By bringing together industry leaders, visionaries, and innovators, it aims to shape the future of maritime operations and port management. With the early bird registration deadline fast approaching, now is the time to secure your spot and be part of this transformative experience.
For more information and to register, visit portofthefutureconference.com. Follow the Port of the Future Conference on social media to stay updated on the latest news and announcements.