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March 24-25, 2026
Hilton University of Houston
Houston, TX

Events & Activities

Port of the Future Conference • March 24–25, 2026

Events & Activities

Special events, competitions, tours, and networking opportunities happening throughout the conference week. Click any event to see full details.

Port Grants Workshop
Workshop

Port Grants Workshop

April Danos (OD Grant Solutions LLC) leads an expert workshop with invited speakers from MARAD, the U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, the Department of Energy, and EPA on upcoming grant opportunities for U.S. ports.

When: Monday, March 23, 2026 • 2:00–5:00 PM
Where: The Hawaiian Room, Hilton University Houston
Zero Point Four book cover
Book Signing

Zero Point Four — Meet the Authors & Book Signing

Meet the authors and join the signing session—an informal, attendee-friendly way to wrap the day and connect with fellow participants.

When: March 24, 2026 • 5:00–6:30 PM
Where: Hilton University of Houston • Waldorf Astoria Ballroom
IRPT Gulf & Intracoastal Waterways Basin Meeting
Basin Meeting

IRPT Gulf & Intracoastal Waterways Basin Meeting

A focused, practical discussion on legislative priorities, federal updates, funding opportunities, and resilience for inland waterway stakeholders.

When: Monday, March 23 • 2:00–5:00 PM
Where: Hilton University of Houston
Networking Reception
Networking

Networking Reception

Cocktails, live music, and hors d’oeuvres in the Conrad Hilton Ballroom—followed by the Student Research Poster Contest Awards Ceremony.

Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Conrad Hilton Ballroom
Student Research Poster Contest
Student Competition

Student Research Poster Contest

A showcase of emerging research with recognition for top student posters—great for discovering new ideas and meeting the next generation of talent.

Details: Submission info, selection process, and in-person display
Tour of Port Houston
Port Tour

Tour of Port Houston

Step aboard for a guided look at Houston Ship Channel activity and Port Houston operations—an unforgettable, real-world view of port performance.

Tour length: 90 minutes
Cost: Free (reservation required)
USCGA Alumni Association Golf Outing & Dinner
Golf Outing

USCGA Alumni Association Golf Outing & Dinner

Tee up the conference with a day of camaraderie and connection—bringing together Coast Guard leaders and partners for golf followed by a dinner celebrating service and support.

When: Monday, March 23, 2026 • Check-in 12:30 PM, Shotgun Start 1:30 PM
Where: Bay Oaks Country Club, Houston, TX
Cost: $165–$200 (conference attendee rate: $165)