https://www.portofthefutureconference.com/

Port of the Future Conference, Hilton University of Houston, Houston, TX (2026)

03/24/2026

Jan Hagen Andersen, Business Development Director- Americas, DNV will speak on “PANEL: Advances In Wind- Assisted Propulsion Systems” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

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.

Jan Hagen Andersen serves as Decarbonization Business Development Director, DNV Maritime Region Americas, with more than 30 years of experience in the maritime and shipping industry.

He started his

career at a marine engineering and service company in Seattle.

In 2005, he joined

DNV in the Machinery Section of the Maritime Technical Advisory Group based in

Norway. The Advisory group provides consultancy and non-class support services

to ship owners, shipyards, manufacturers, designers and other stakeholders. In

2010 he moved to the DNV office in Houston, Texas.

Andersen currently

serves as Business Development Director for DNV Maritime, Region Americas. In

this role, he focuses on decarbonization, alternative fuels, environmental

compliance, energy efficiency, digital and new technologies. He is a member of

the SNAME M-16 Panel on Propulsion Shafting and is on the North America

Environmental Protection Association (NAMEPA) Board of Directors.

Andersen is a

graduate of the University of Washington with an M.S. in Mechanical

Engineering. He completed the DNV Top Tech Executive Education at University of

California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business in 2013.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 50 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0 #

03/20/2026

Berto Ponce, Co-Founder and CEO at AI Strategic Solutions, will speak on “From Steel to Signals: How Connected Intelligence will redefine the next decade of Port Operations” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

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.

Berto Ponce is a data and systems engineering leader with more than a decade of experience helping ports, logistics operators, federal programs, and Fortune 100 enterprises modernize their most complex operational environments. With an engineering mindset and a background in analytics, architecture, and integration, Berto specializes in bridging legacy OT systems with modern IT and AI-driven platforms to improve decision- making, visibility, and operational flow.

He has led and supported large-scale modernization efforts across supply chain logistics, health, transportation, automotive, finance, and insurance. Today, he leads strategic initiatives at A&I Strategic Solutions, where he helps organizations evaluate, adopt, and deploy connected-intelligence solutions, including ForgeTrack, that enhance resilience across the full intermodal ecosystem.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 50 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0

03/19/2026

Join global port leaders, innovators, and researchers shaping the next generation of maritime operations. With representatives from 50+ seaports worldwide, the Port of the Future Conference delivers practical insights, strategic collaboration, and real-world solutions.
Network with executives, government leaders, and technology partners across the maritime ecosystem.
See proven port innovations in automation, data security, sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.
Bring back actionable ideas to improve operations, reduce risk, and accelerate digital transformation.
Register at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

03/19/2026

Rear Admiral Jim Watson, U.S. Coast Guard (Retired) will speak on the book “ZeroPointFour: How U.S. Leadership in Maritime Will Secure America’s Future,” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

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.

James Watson is currently an independent consultant providing business development services to maritime clients. He previously held the position of Senior Vice President of American Bureau of Shipping Global Government Services, where he was responsible for the government market sector across the four ABS divisions and technology. Before becoming Senior VP of Global Government Services, Watson was President and COO for the Americas Division where he was responsible for all operations of the American Bureau of Shipping in the Western Hemisphere.

Prior to joining ABS, Watson served as Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement at the US Department of Interior. In this role he provided regulatory oversight for energy exploration and production on the US Outer Continental Shelf.

Before becoming BSEE Director, Watson served as the US Coast Guard’s Director of Prevention Policy for Marine Safety, Security and Stewardship, where his responsibilities included commercial vessel safety and security, ports and cargo safety and security and maritime investigations. He was also designated as the Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the government-wide response to the Macondo incident in the Gulf of Mexico.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference will host representatives from over 60 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

03/18/2026

Join global port leaders, innovators, and researchers shaping the next generation of maritime operations. With representatives from 50+ seaports worldwide, the Port of the Future Conference delivers practical insights, strategic collaboration, and real-world solutions.

Network with executives, government leaders, and technology partners across the maritime ecosystem.
See proven port innovations in automation, data security, sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.
Bring back actionable ideas to improve operations, reduce risk, and accelerate digital transformation.

Register at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

03/18/2026

Shawn Newman, Chief Intelligence Officer, CISO, Armada Growth Partners will speak on “Inside the Wire: Navigating Threat Actor Negotiations With Precision & Principle” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

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.

Shawn is an accomplished professional with over 30 years of experience in cyber and traditional warfare within the .mil and .gov sectors. Backed by numerous professional licensures and certifications, Shawn brings a unique multidisciplinary skillset to the table supporting organizations. To name a few of his notable experience, he has established robust Threat Intelligence programs providing real time corporate situational awareness pertaining to threat actors. He was partnered on the implementation of DC3(Defense Cyber Crime Center) between the FBI and DOD. Shawn was part of the design of cyber warfare for offensive platform DDX (21st Century Stealth Destroyer). He is a sanctioned Threat Actor Negotiator (TAN) and has led and negotiated over 550 Incident Response engagements, demonstrating an extraordinary track record of success and a proven ability to drive results. Additionally, Shawn has experience serving as Incident Response (IR) lead for Fortune 100 companies, effectively navigating complex cybersecurity challenges. With a career marked by strategic leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Shawn continues to deliver impactful solutions and drive innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber defense and intelligence operations.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 60 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

03/17/2026

Dr. Beatriz Canamary, Founder and CEO, Sure Strategy Group / COO Seatrain / Co-Founder, AMIC_ American Maritime Industrial Coalition, will speak on “Modular Submersible Cargo Gliders- SeaTrain” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

SeaTrain ™ 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.

Dr. Beatriz Canamary is a strategic advisor specializing in maritime, port, and infrastructure operations. She co-founded the American Maritime Industrial Coalition (AMIC), which leads the U.S. Maritime Revitalization Agenda — coordinating shipyards, investors, and workforce programs to accelerate ex*****on of national maritime policy.

As COO of Seatrain, she is advancing autonomous submersible cargo transport from concept toward commercial deployment. She leads ZESTA's contributions to the IMO Maritime Safety Committee on the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code, providing direct engagement with the regulatory framework for autonomous shipping.

Dr. Canamary previously served as Executive Director at a $6.5 billion steel and port complex, and led negotiation of a joint venture with the Port of Rotterdam across three jurisdictions. She holds a Doctorate focused on sustainability innovation in U.S. ports and an M&A certificate from Harvard Business School.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 50 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0 #

03/16/2026

Stephen P. Metruck, Executive Director, Port of Seattle will speak on “Port Leaders Roundtable” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

A discussion of emerging technologies, possible opportunities and future challenges facing port leaders

As executive director of the Port of Seattle, Steve Metruck leads a county-wide special purpose government responsible for providing world-class trade, travel, and logistics services to one of the nation’s most dynamic and fastest growing regions. Metruck leads 1,900 employees who deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality services to the region while improving local economic opportunities and safeguarding our environment.

Metruck came to the Port of Seattle following a 34-year career with the U.S. Coast Guard, retiring as a Rear Admiral. He has experience across a diverse range of operations and executive level assignments on both coasts, the Great Lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico. As the Chief Financial Officer for the Coast Guard, Metruck was responsible for all Coast Guard financial management and ex*****on of the service’s $10 billion annual appropriation.

Throughout his career, Metruck has maintained a strong record of advancing a diverse and safe workplace. He is currently leading the Port through a groundbreaking effort to increase diversity in contracting and is supporting expansion of internal employee resource groups and efforts to increase diversity at the Port. Metruck emphasized employee safety and diversity during his Coast Guard career as well.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 60 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0

03/13/2026

Capt. Kate Higgins-Bloom, USCG, Capt of the Port & Sector Commander, U.S Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay will speak on “Strategic Discussion for Port Leadership: Navigating the new USCG Maritime Transportation System (MTS) Cyber Regulations” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

The session would be designed as both visionary and practical: looking at the role of digital ecosystems in supporting energy transition, physical and cybersecurity, automation, and smart logistics while grounding the conversation in measurable benefits like reduced downtime, higher throughput, and improved worker safety. Through a blend of technology insights and operational storytelling, the presentation would position ports not just as gateways for goods, but as next-generation innovation hubs, ready to meet global trade demands with resilience and efficiency.

Captain Kate Higgins-Bloom took command of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay in June 2023, where she leads 815 active duty, reserve, and civilian personnel: 2,100 Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers, and 17 Coast Guard field units across three states. Sector Delaware Bay is responsible for all Coast Guard missions – ranging from search and rescue to securing a marine transportation system that contributes over $90 billion annually to the regional economy - across much of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and all of Delaware out to 200 miles offshore.

Kate’s previous staff assignments included Chief of the Office of
Emergency Management and Disaster Response, where she set service wide policy and doctrine for Coast Guard emergency management and incident response. Prior to assuming leadership of CG-OEM, she was a member of the Coast Guard’s Office of Emerging Policy (CG-DCO-X). At DCO-X she led the Service’s strategic foresight program, Project Evergreen, and spearheaded the creation of enterprise strategies such as the 2019 Coast Guard Arctic Strategic Outlook and the 2020 tri-service maritime strategy “Advantage at Sea.” Other staff tours include Executive Fellow at the Brookings Institution and White House Fellow in the Executive Office of the President.

Kate has held a variety of operational leadership roles afloat and ashore. She led the Sector Hampton Roads Command Center to coordinate over 1200 “all hazards” maritime responses by 35 different
government agencies, saving 713 lives and safeguarding more than $95 billion in commerce. Afloat, she commanded USCGC BARANOF (WPB-1318) during a yearlong deployment in the Arabian Gulf. She has also deployed with incident management teams to oil spills and presidential inaugurations; serving as an action officer for the Principal Federal Official for Hurricane Katrina and for Operation Allies Welcome.
Kate graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government with a Master of Public Administration.

The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 50 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0

03/12/2026

Jide Akinyode, Co-Founder and COO, Persona AI will speak on “Robotics In Shipbuilding” at the 2026 Port of the Future Conference, to be held March 24-25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Register for the 2026 Port of the Future Conference at: https://portofthefutureconference.com/registration/

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.

Jide Akinyode is the COO and Co-founder of Persona AI, an embodied AI company building industrial-grade humanoid robots for skilled trades in heavy industry. With more than 20 years of experience in humanoid and heavy-duty robotic systems, he has led
multinational manufacturing programs and $100M+ product commercialization efforts across space, subsea, and industrial domains.

Prior to Persona AI, Jide spent a decade at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where he helped design and build multiple clean-sheet robotic platforms, including mobile rovers and humanoid systems such as Valkyrie and the Space Exploration Vehicle (SEV).

He later served as VP of Engineering at Nauticus Robotics, leading the development of Aquanaut—the first anthropomorphic underwater robot—from concept to production and helping guide the company to its IPO in 2022.
Jide holds an MSEE from the University of Southern California and a BSEE from the University of Cincinnati.

Outside of work, he enjoys soccer, basketball, and golf, and is passionate about mentoring students through internships, engineering competitions, and youth sports.
The 2026 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by New Wave Media International, will host representatives from over 50 ports worldwide from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This year’s event includes nine (9) informative tracks on Port Infrastructure 4.0; Increasing Ports Operational Efficiency; Ensuring U.S. Maritime Security; Developing Ports; Intermodal Connectivity; Decarbonization and Alternate Fuels; Port Energy and Sustainability; Port Security, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Management; Advances in Dredging Technology and Techniques and other relevant topics.

.0 #

Port of the Future Conference

03/24/2026

03/20/2026

03/19/2026

03/19/2026

03/18/2026

03/18/2026

03/17/2026

03/16/2026

03/13/2026

03/12/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category