Richard J. Hendrick Elected AAPA Chairman

The American Association of Port Authorities has selected the Port of Albany CEO to lead its national board.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People

Richard J. Hendrick Elected AAPA Chairman

The American Association of Port Authorities elected Richard J. Hendrick as its new chairman. He currently serves as the CEO of the Port of Albany-Rensselaer.

Why it matters

This leadership change places the head of a major regional shipping hub at the helm of the organization representing over 130 public ports. His tenure as chair will guide the industry as it navigates ongoing infrastructure investment and operational expansion.

The American Association of Port Authorities represents more than 130 public port authorities across the continent. Hendrick has previously overseen $500 million in public and private investment during his leadership at the Port of Albany-Rensselaer.

The players

Richard J. Hendrick

He is the CEO of the Port of Albany-Rensselaer and a veteran administrator with decades of experience in port operations.

American Association of Port Authorities

This is a trade association representing more than 130 public port authorities in the United States and North America.

The details

The election took place during the association's annual convention in New Orleans. Hendrick has led the Port of Albany-Rensselaer since 2008 and has been associated with the facility since 2004.

The Port of Albany was originally established in 1932.
Richard J. Hendrick joined the Port of Albany-Rensselaer in 2004.
Hendrick became CEO of the port in 2008.
The port began receiving Green Marine certification in 2016.
Hendrick was elected AAPA chair on September 30, 2026.

Market Landscape

The Port of Albany-Rensselaer has maintained Green Marine certification since 2016, setting a standard for environmental compliance in the maritime sector. Hendrick's leadership of a certified facility aligns with the industry's broader shift toward standardized environmental sustainability.

For the average consumer and local business, this leadership appointment signals continued emphasis on port expansion projects. These investments often aim to improve supply chain reliability and port footprint efficiency in the long term.

The takeaway

The election of a veteran port CEO to a national board highlights the importance of experienced leadership in managing critical trade infrastructure. Port authorities continue to balance high-capital investments with evolving environmental standards.