2026 Port of the Future Conference

The US Center for Maritime Innovation is a new national research, development, and demonstration projects supporting maritime innovation in a range of potential subject areas. The scope of interest includes all types of vessels, port/port facility, and other marine transportation issues and covers the diverse issues of interest in different geographical regions of the country. David Walker and Dan Yuska provide an update to its strategic research priorities and progress in its initial innovative initiatives.

The United States lacks a discernible strategy to adequately control, manage, or profit from most forms of commercial maritime activity. Its shrinking influence over the construction and ownership of ships, the operation of ports, and the flow of goods through intermodal means, the U.S. has been relegated from maritime world leader to reluctant participant; trailing its allies and dangerously lagging behind its adversaries. The U.S. commercial fleet is in rapid and precipitous decline, seriously impacting national security.

Accurate positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) are essential to the maritime sector. Precision timing, primarily provided through the Global Positioning System (GPS), is particularly important. However, GPS signals are low-power and unencrypted, making them susceptible to both intentional and unintentional disruptions. Both China and Russia have developed layered, capable and resilient backups to GPS. The U.S. failure to do so has become a national security threat.

This panel discussion focuses on a variety of possible options for ports and pilots – offering critical solutions/alternatives to help protect, toughen or augment GPS to address national security, economy and public safety needs.

The weak state of the U.S. maritime industry risks National Security in five major ways: significant shortfall of military support vessels from the commercial fleet; wasteful government support programs creating “Zombie assets”; significant foreign ownership of the U.S. maritime sector; growing vulnerabilities from emerging technologies; and the rise of China as a maritime power.

A small and weak U.S. commercial maritime industry weakens U.S. Economic Security through: threats to the U.S. dollar dominated international trade; loss of critical influence over commercial shipping – a critical node in global trade; the same loss in influence over shipping can serve as a catalyst for an inflationary crisis; growing foreign influence over U.S. critical infrastructure sectors; and an estimated $6 trillion missed Blue Economy opportunities.

A small and weak maritime sector represents significant risks for U.S. energy and food security given the particular requirements of moving energy and food in specially adapted vessels (primarily tankers and bulk carriers). This panel discussion focuses on the key points of: lack of consensus over U.S. energy mix; shortage of U.S.-controlled vessels risks U.S. Energy and Food Security; vulnerability to foreign ownership of key food security assets; weak U.S. leadership over future fuels in shipping; and the risk created by a small U.S. fleet for a rules-based international order for energy and food security.

The shipping industry is at the mercy of a changing ocean and is an important driver of environmental change. Without a strong U.S. commercial fleet, the transition to less harmful shipping operations is likely to be slower at the very time when the pace of change needs to accelerate to avoid irreversible planetary tipping points. A strong U.S. maritime industry is a powerful catalyst for change.

There is no U.S. maritime industry without U.S. mariners – both a shoreside workforce and on vessels. The shortage of U.S. mariners presents a major threat to U.S. security. This presentation fosters a discussion on minimal needs (vessels and credentialed U.S. mariners) during peace, during war and in the “Future Competitive Fleet.”

ZeroPointFour offers a 57-Point U.S. Maritime National Action Plan intended to spur discussion, transform the U.,S. maritime industry and form the basis of a National Maritime and Blue Economy strategy to guide decision-making across all key agencies that touch the ocean. These points are intended as a beginning – not a limit to dialogue and actions to that end. This session is intended as an open discussion, engaging participants to voice recommendations and challenges to improve the status of the U.S. maritime sector.

The Louisiana International Terminal project is a significant public-private investment of $1.8 billion, with construction expected to begin in 2025 and an anticipated opening in 2028. This project aims to enhance the supply chain for container shipments on the Mississippi River and its tributaries, potentially creating over 17,000 new jobs statewide by 2050. The terminal will be located in Violet, Louisiana, and will serve vessels of all sizes, dramatically increasing Louisiana’s import and export capacity. The project is designed to leverage extensive transportation connectivity, including interstate systems and railroads, to facilitate efficient logistics. The terminal is expected to handle between 180,000 to 280,000 containers in its first year of operation. Additionally, the project incorporates sustainability measures and community input into its design

Galveston LNG Bunker Port (GLBP) is a joint venture by Pilot LNG and Seapath Group to develop, own and operate the first small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility on the U.S. Gulf Coast dedicated to serving the growing clean-energy marine fuels market. Texas City GLBP will supply LNG by fuel barge to the rapidly expanding fleet of LNG-fueled vessels in the greater Houston-Galveston region. It is optimally located to serve major ports, including Port Houston, the Port of Galveston and the Port of Texas City.

The program consists of building four new terminals (Petroleum and Cement Terminal, Petroleum Terminal and Cargo Terminals 1 & 2), and a new onshore administration building, The North Extension Stabilization Steps 1 & 2 and demolition of the existing terminals. Three cargo terminals currently operate year-round and provide 90% of Alaskans with critical goods making continuity of operations key. Two new cargo terminals will be built replacing the existing three terminals which will be partially demolished in a phased approach. The new terminals are designed longer to accommodate newer, larger vessels requiring two instead of the three existing terminals. The new terminals will have seismically capable structures built 140 feet seaward of the existing structure to reduce sedimentation impact, improve berthing safety and allow for continued port operations during construction.

At the crossroads of digital transformation and maritime logistics, Trinidad is ready to become the next strategic location for high density AI infrastructure. This presentation will unveil how the island’s unique convergence of ultra-low energy cost – powered by a nearby 720 MW plant, direct seawater access for efficient cooling, and dedicated subsea cable systems to the United States creates an unmatched environment for data center innovation.

This presentation outlines how Trinidad’s strategic energy infrastructure is transforming the country into a launch pad for hyper scale operators, redefining the role of ports in the digital economy and unlocking new opportunities for diversification, global connectivity and technological growth.

Colombia’s National Infrastructure Agency (ANI) has granted a 30-year port contract to Puerto Solo, a subsidiary of SeaOne Holdings. Located in the inner bay of Buenaventura, Colombia, the Puerto Solo multi-use energy port project is the largest permitted Pacific Coast energy hub and multi-use port development in the region. It will be the region’s largest energy hub and multipurpose port development on the Pacific coast.

The Puerto Solo Energy Hub port complex is intended to facilitate international trade by receiving and delivering imported natural gas to the Pacific region of Colombia, providing storage and pipeline infrastructure to store and deliver 1.8 million barrels of fuel to the Colombian market. The project represents a pivotal advancement in material handling technology at Sparrows Point. The new system incorporates high-capacity conveyors and hoppers, equipped with variable speed control and washdown functionality, allowing for seamless handling of diverse materials.

The Dominican Republic’s Samaná region is on the brink of a major transformation with the development of the Samaná Bayport Cruise Terminal. This cutting-edge facility is set to position Samaná as a premier Caribbean destination, drawing over one million tourists annually and boosting the local economy. The terminal’s arrival signals a new era of economic growth, fueled by eco-tourism, sustainable development, and an influx of high-value visitors eager to explore the region’s breathtaking beauty and cultural richness. The new terminal will feature a commercial plaza, water park, dining area, artisan market, cultural spaces, and docking facilities capable of accommodating two ships simultaneously.

SeaTrain ™ ‘s gliders are innovative, modular submersible cargo gliders powered by a patented variable buoyancy propulsion technology for commercial, defense and energy applications. This unique system allows gliders to move quietly underwater without engines, fuel, or emissions. Their autonomous, unmanned operation eliminates crew costs and enhances safety. The modular nature enables automotive-style mass production in shipyards, allowing rapid scaling to fulfill national strategic objectives.

The integration of automation, digitalization and IoT (Internet of Things) devices is enhancing the efficiency and reliability of intermodal transportation. The use of digital platforms to increase coordination and sharing of real time information between vessels, ports, rail, and trucking agents is crucial for enhancing inter-modal connectivity, improving the efficiency of cargo movement, and contributing to sustainability and resilience of freight transportation networks.

Glīders operate autonomously on private rail networks, bypassing the complexities of public road regulations while maintaining cutting-edge safety standards. By seamlessly transitioning between road and rail, Glīders eliminate bottlenecks at congested ports and yards, revolutionizing freight transportation speed. This rail-based solution reduces road congestion and accidents while meeting the highest safety standards set by rail authorities. Fully electric Glīders deliver superior range and efficiency compared to traditional diesel trucks, dramatically reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

The REGENT Viceroy “seaglider” is a proposed electric-powered wing-in-ground-effect vehicle under development by REGENT Craft Inc. of Rhode Island. The Seaglider has a 65 ft wingspan and operates exclusively over water in three modes — floating on the hull, foiling above the waves on hydrofoils, and flying in ground effect close to the surface of the water.

Its load capacity of 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) can be carried on flights of up to 180 miles (290 km) over coastal waters, with retractable hydrofoils used during the take-off run. Customer deliveries are expected to commence in 2026 to 2027.

This session explores how ports and their inter-modal partners can evolve from fragmented, legacy-based operations to connected, intelligent ecosystems that improve flow across vessel, yard, gate, rail, and trucking. Drawing on a decade inside major port environments, this presentation highlights why awareness, not automation, is the defining capability of the next decade.

A live demo featuring a 3D-printed mini port with real sensors, PLCs, and asset tags will show how legacy and modern systems can work together in real time across the inter-modal chain. Attendees will walk away with practical insights into how to modernize without disruption and build a more resilient, connected, and inter-modal port.

The Government Accountability Office issued a report to Congressional Committees in March 2024 on “Port Infrastructure: U.S. Ports Have Adopted Some Automation Technologies and Report Varied Effects.” Representatives from the GAO will speak on the report’s research process, findings, and recommendations.

U.S. ports’ ability to efficiently move containers into and out of terminals is crucial for the U.S. economy. In 2020, coastal ports handled cargo that accounted for nearly half of U.S. trade. Faced with increased container volumes and supply chain challenges, some ports in the U.S. and abroad have adopted automation technologies to improve performance and increase capacity.

With the acceleration of globalization and the rapid development of international trade, ports have become important hubs for logistics transportation, directly impact the efficiency of the entire supply chain and economic development. Enhancing Port Logistics efficiency has become a focal point for many countries.

Adopting electronic bills of lading (eBLs) can transform trade by streamlining processes, improving security, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable trade practices. Estimates show that replacing all paper-based bills of lading would save an estimated $6.5 billion in direct transaction costs with the capacity to facilitate up to $40 billion in global trade.

The container industry currently operates at 5 percent eBLs and has committed to operating at 100 percent by 2030. This will be a massive transformation in just a 5-year period. This transformation will also require standardization of maritime terms, and IMO initiative, to create a common global maritime language.

This panel discusses how businesses and ports can best prepare for the digital transition from paper-based to eBLs.

This panel, moderated by Boldyn Networks, brings together leaders from three major U.S. ports to discuss why they are exploring private managed networks and the critical use cases driving this transformation. The discussion will focus on the use of private networks to improve operational resilience and cybersecurity in high-risk environments and the enhancement to ports’ real-time data exchange for vessel traffic, cargo handling and in emergency response.

Key Use Cases will include IoT-enabled Asset Tracking for containers and equipment; Secure Communications for critical infrastructure and emergency operations; Automation and Remote Monitoring to improve efficiency and reduce downtime; and Video Surveillance and AI Analytics for perimeter and cargo security.

Port operations run on precision, and access to weather data and forecasts are a critical piece of that puzzle. While techniques for weather data have expanded in recent years with higher-resolution numerical prediction models, satellite deployments, and on-ship weather monitoring, there are critical gaps in legacy weather models and weather apps. As ports push for greater efficiency, sustainability, and safety, outdated forecasting models are no longer good enough.

Economic losses from storm-related port disruptions have been in the 10s of millions USD per day and the negative impacts on port operations from inaccurate forecasts can be measured in millions of dollars in lost efficiency per year. MarineLabs’ coastal intelligence helps mitigate hundreds of those occurrences per year. Through deployment of scalable real-time sensor nodes combined with AI, MarineLabs’ hyper-localized metocean forecasting correctly predicts up to 23% more port operation work shifts that could be impacted by weather and cause operational downtime. Optimizing and streamlining operations makes ports more efficient, keeping global supply chains moving and contributing to economic growth.

In this session, Dr. Scott Beatty will showcase a side-by-side comparison of Forecast AI against traditional models currently used in port operations and discuss how real-time weather data and hyper-local AI-driven forecasting is actively helping ports and maritime operators reduce chances of accidents and improve efficiency, which also leads to GHG reductions. Attendees will walk away with a clear, quantified picture of how access to real-time coastal weather data and hyper-local AI metocean forecasts can reduce downtime, minimize supply chain disruption, reduce fuel usage, improve safety, and save on costs. Recent

The application of modern technology is a crucial means to enhance port logistics efficiency. Introducing automated handling equipment can significantly reduce manual operations, minimize human errors, and improve operational efficiency.
Simultaneously, establishing a comprehensive port information system that enables real-time sharing and dynamic management of information on cargo, vessels, and transport vehicles can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of port operations.
Use of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology allows real-time monitoring of equipment status in the port, preventing failures, and ensuring efficient port operations.

The integration of robotics in shipbuilding is transforming the industry by automating repetitive and labor-intensive tasks, enhancing precision, and accelerating production timelines. Key applications include welding, cutting, material handling and painting with robotic systems offering unmatched precision and reducing errors. Augmented reality is also used to visualize complex designs and follow precise instructions during assembly to ensure production meets quality standards and engineering specifications. These advancements are part of a broader trend towards smart shipyards, where automation, intelligence, and environmental responsibility are driving competitiveness and sustainability in ship production.

This case study highlights Honeywell Port Solution’s use of low voltage systems meticulously engineered to transform conventional ports into state-of-the-art smart ports. By seamlessly integrating advanced telecommunication, data, voice, and security technologies, Honeywell facilitates robust communication and heightened operational efficiency across the entire port ecosystem. These solutions offer reliable connectivity via both wired and wireless networks, real-time data management, and unified system integration, forming the cornerstone for next-generation port automation and digital transformation.

In recent months, a significant number of large corporations, ship carriers, transport companies and major solution providers have quietly backed out of commitments made to achieve a Zero Carbon Footprint. Achieving” Net-Zero” is found to be expensive and difficult. While over five hundred companies worldwide pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, only 4 percent are on track to achieve these goals. This presentation addresses the reasons for this Zero-Emission rollback – what went right and what is hindering the Net-Zero initiative.

The adoption of hybrid vessel technology is gaining traction in the maritime industry due to its ability to reduce emissions, lower fuel costs, and enhance operational performance. Hybrid systems combine conventional diesel engines with battery power, reducing fuel consumption and operating emissions. These systems are being used in various vessel types, including RoRo and RoPax ferries, tugs, research vessels, and other special-purpose ships. The trend includes advancements in battery technology, increased use of fuel cells, and retrofits of existing ships.

Hybrid electric power systems allow for lower horsepower options and more compact engines, providing OEMs and vessel owners with an array of options to optimize their fuel or power choice based on energy preference and fuel availability.

Independent of the choice of alternative marine fuels, an approximately 30 percent vessel emission reductions may be reached through Marine Fuel additives, hull cleaning, hull and propeller coating, use of AI in voyage systems, – and there is no compelling reason to wait.

Wind propulsion in modern cargo vessels is not necessarily emblematic of a by-gone age. Wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) are increasingly being used by ship operators to reduce power demand by 20% and up to 60% with route optimization, reduce fuel consumption, meet energy efficiency regulations and minimize carbon emissions. Panel members discuss new designs and advances in wind propulsion technology enhanced by Artificial Intelligence.

As ports accelerate their transition toward net zero, the complexity of multi-vector energy system planning is growing. With mounting pressure from regulatory frameworks – in the EU, for example, brought in through the EU Green Deal and Fit for 55 – and from ports’ own net zero commitments, maritime stakeholders must make strategic decisions that balance sustainability, cost-efficiency and operational resilience.

In their transition to alternative fuels (electricity, hydrogen, propane, methanol, etc.), trucking companies evaluate market trends, technological advances in heavy engines, and the cost of low carbon emission fuels. An additional concern in the transition to alternative fuels is the ready availability and access to fuel pumps and charging stations. Ports have a hand in ensuring that these facilities are available to support drayage operations in their region

Propane improves air quality at our nation’s ports while reliably supporting global trade logistics. Propane refueling infrastructure is affordable, scalable, and readily available for the nation’s alternative fuel corridors. Propane keeps ports running by powering backup generators and prime power for cold ironing, charging, and other large industrial applications. Propane can be used to power port tractors, forklifts, soon reach stackers, empty container handlers, and rubber-tired gantry cranes.

The United States is advancing the creation of domestic and international green shipping corridors in support of the effort to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions from the international shipping sector by 2050. This panel discussion focuses on the creation of green shipping corridors in the Caribbean.

Ports are high-value targets for cyberattacks because of critical infrastructure with complex, interconnected systems, sensitive data, and high disruption potential. Unlike ordinary businesses, ports cannot afford downtime — making port systems more likely to be targeted.

The Port of Pascagoula has been singularly successful in establishing a clear roadmap for security port infrastructure. This case study examines Port Pascagoula’s proactive approach which maximized use of federal resources, tailored assessments, and best practices. Port Pascagoula established a cost-effective cybersecurity program in alignment with NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework. It established realistic goals to improve its security posture, while positioning itself to meet new cybersecurity regulations for the Marine Transportation System. It effectively improved its cyber resilience without incurring significant financial burden.

As the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) implements new cybersecurity regulations for the Maritime Transportation System (MTS), port leadership faces a critical juncture in safeguarding operational technology (OT), information technology (IT), and supply chain systems against evolving cyber threats. This panel will explore the strategic implications of the new MTS Cyber Regulations, offering actionable insights for port executives, facility security officers (FSOs), and IT leaders.

Key topics will include understanding the rapidly evolving threat landscape, aligning cybersecurity programs to meet regulatory requirements, and integrating risk-based approaches into port operations. The discussion will also focus on the importance of aligning to national and international frameworks, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive approach to managing cyber risks in the maritime sector. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to balance compliance with operational efficiency while fostering a culture of cyber resilience across the maritime industry.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection partnered with Brand USA to do Global Entry mobile enrollments in Japan and South Korea as part of Brand USA’s sales missions in Asia. The goal is “to implement a continuous flow of travelers to the greatest extent possible while maintaining the integrity of the CBP inspection process. By processing travelers on the move and without the need to stop, while properly segmenting travelers, CBP’s objective is to reduce processing times, improve the traveler experience, and increase throughput.”

USCBP has processed over 576 million travelers using facial biometrics for identity verification at air, land, and sea and captured 2,059 impostors who tried to fraudulently enter the United States

In today’s digital threat landscape, cyber extortion incidents are escalating in frequency and complexity. This session offers a behind-the-scenes look into the high-stakes world of ransomware negotiations. Drawing from real-world experience handling threat actor communications, participants will explore tactical, psychological, and strategic approaches to drive favorable outcomes—often under immense pressure and within legal constraints.

Through the lens of crisis response, attendees will gain actionable insights on how seasoned negotiators engage with threat actors while preserving organizational integrity, managing regulatory risks, and aligning responses with evolving threat intelligence. This session demystifies common misconceptions, presents negotiation archetypes, and highlights lessons learned from the trenches to build confidence and competence in future incident response engagements.

SeaPort Manatee, one of Florida’s fastest-growing deepwater ports, has partnered with Siemens to modernize its security operations with a fully integrated access control and video surveillance system. The upgrade features SiPassintegrated and Siveillance Video to enhance situational awareness across the port, automate compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and reduce processing times for cargo and personnel by 80%. Key to the success of the new port security system is extensive advanced customization to increase functionality and incorporate TWIC verification.

The maritime coastal security of the United States poses a significant challenge due to the vastness of its coastline and the complexity of its maritime borders. With approximately 95,000 miles of coastline, 360 ports, and 3.4 million square miles of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), securing the country’s maritime borders presents a formidable task. The coastline along the Great Lakes adds an additional 4,530 miles, and the country shares maritime borders with Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. This panel will explore how highly relevant and rapid Research and Development can close capability gaps, related domain awareness, law enforcement, search and rescue, environment protection.

An overview of recent notable dredging operations and case studies highlighting innovation, introduction of specialized equipment, and advancements impacting project design and operations

Modern ports depend on continuous dredging and sediment management to maintain safe navigation and operational efficiency. The challenge lies in managing large and diverse data from surveys, sensors, and models. This presentation introduces the Channel Explorer, a framework within BMT Deep that integrates hydrographic, environmental, and marine traffic data into one digital environment. Developed as part of BMT’s Adaptive Dredging program, it automates data ingestion, analysis, and visualization to support sedimentation assessment and long-term channel monitoring. The talk will focus on how the system was architected to handle data integration, automate survey comparisons, and enable predictive analysis to support adaptive and sustainable port operations.

A panel introduces the latest in equipment and systems used in surveying and dredging operations. The discussion includes the use of surface and sub-surface equipment and Unmanned Aerial Systems in dredging operations.

Sludge accumulation is a natural process impacting port operations and efficiencies, degrading the lifespan of port infrastructure, and limiting access by cargo vessels over time.
Presenters provide an in-depth discussion on the use of subsurface drones and advanced bathymetric survey technologies to obtain accurate and actionable data, laying the groundwork for effective tailored solutions. They will further discuss upgrades to hydraulic dredging services that provide systematic and environmentally responsible solutions to sludge accumulation in ports, harbors, and channels. The data collected is used to develop a research-based maintenance plan tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of each port – while ensuring the long-term sustainability of port infrastructure.

A panel discussion of environmental considerations and environmentally responsible equipment, solutions and techniques used to lessen the impact of dredging on the harbor, port, and channel eco-systems.