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Global Port Leaders to Gather in Houston for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference

Posted to Maritime Reporter (by on March 9, 2026

Industry leaders in maritime security, infrastructure, sustainability, and port operations will come together March 24–25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Ports are undergoing a once-in-a-generation transformation.

From automation and cybersecurity to decarbonization and new cargo logistics models, the infrastructure that powers global trade is evolving rapidly. Governments, port authorities, and technology providers are now facing a central question:

How do we build the next generation of ports?

These challenges — and the opportunities they create — will take center stage at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, taking place March 24–25, 2026, at the Hilton University of Houston in Houston, Texas.

The conference brings together leaders from port authorities, government agencies, technology providers, engineering firms, and academia to examine the future of port infrastructure, logistics, resilience, and maritime commerce.


Featured Speakers

RADM James Watson

RADM James Watson

Co-Author, “ZeroPointFour” | USCG (Ret.)

A recognized leader in maritime safety, regulation, and security, Watson brings valuable insight into the risks and opportunities shaping the global maritime industry.

Dr. Beatriz Canamary

Dr. Beatriz Canamary

Founder & CEO, SuRe Strategy Group | Co-Founder, American Maritime Industrial Coalition

Dr. Canamary is a leading voice in maritime industrial policy, strategic growth, and resilience, with deep expertise in strengthening the U.S. maritime sector.

BG George H. Walter

BG George H. Walter

Commander, Southwestern Division | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

As commander of one of the nation’s most important infrastructure divisions, Walter brings a critical perspective on federal collaboration, port development, and resilient maritime infrastructure.

Stephen P. Metruck

Stephen P. Metruck

Executive Director | Port of Seattle

Metruck leads one of North America’s most forward-looking port authorities, with experience spanning sustainability, maritime decarbonization, and smart port operations.

Capitán Manuel Gutiérrez Gallardo

Capitán Manuel Gutiérrez Gallardo

Coordinador General de Puertos | Gobierno de México

Representing Mexico’s national port system, Gutiérrez Gallardo offers an international perspective on port modernization, strategy, and regional economic development.

Darwin Telemaque

Darwin Telemaque

CEO, Antigua Port Authority | Chairman, PMAC

Telemaque brings a Caribbean and global port leadership perspective, with expertise in growth, resilience, and advancing regional maritime competitiveness.


Key Themes for 2026

The Port of the Future Conference is designed as a working forum focused on practical solutions, cross-sector collaboration, and the technologies reshaping maritime trade.

  • Port Infrastructure 4.0 and smart port technologies
  • Intermodal connectivity and supply chain resilience
  • Maritime and port security
  • Decarbonization and alternative fuels
  • Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure
  • Emergency preparedness and disaster resilience
  • Advances in dredging and port construction

With decision-makers from ports, government, industry, and academia all in one place, attendees will gain practical insight into how maritime leaders are planning, funding, and implementing the next generation of port innovation.

Join the Leaders Defining the Future of Ports

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference is where maritime leaders, infrastructure experts, and technology innovators come together to tackle the challenges shaping tomorrow’s ports.

March 24–25, 2026

Hilton University of Houston | Houston, Texas

Reserve Your Spot

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