South Carolina Ports Welcomed New Ambassador Class

The 2026-2027 Port Ambassador Program class includes 31 professionals from across the state.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Transportation

A towering industrial gantry crane stands over a coastal waterway at a shipping terminal with stacks of cargo containers. — South Carolina Ports has selected 31 professionals for its 2026-2027 Port Ambassador Program, an initiative designed to enhance public understanding of state maritime operations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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South Carolina Ports has selected 31 new professionals to participate in its 2026-2027 Port Ambassador Program. This initiative aims to increase public understanding of the critical role state maritime operations play in the economy.

Why it matters

The program helps build transparency and public support by educating local leaders on the logistical infrastructure that powers the state economy. Participants gain firsthand insight into how port facilities sustain commerce throughout South Carolina.

SC Ports operations support 260,000 jobs and drive $87 billion in annual economic development throughout South Carolina. More than 250 individuals have completed the program since its 2016 launch.

The players

South Carolina Ports

This is the state-owned authority responsible for managing the maritime commerce and port infrastructure in South Carolina.

Review and Oversight Commission on the State Ports Authority

This body provides legislative scrutiny and guidance regarding the management and operations of state-run port facilities.

The details

Participants meet over nine months during six sessions to tour terminal facilities, including the Wando Welch Terminal and inland ports. The class members were chosen following nominations from SC Ports leadership and the Review and Oversight Commission on the State Ports Authority.

The Port Ambassador Program was first launched in 2016.
The current program runs throughout the 2026-2027 period.
A State of the Port Address is scheduled for 2026 in Charleston.

Market Landscape

The Port Ambassador Program follows a broader industry trend of large-scale infrastructure entities investing in regional community outreach to maintain local support. This positioning helps South Carolina Ports solidify its regional influence compared to private logistics competitors.

Residents may see an increase in port-related community outreach and public tours as these new ambassadors begin their advocacy work. The ongoing economic activity generated by the ports remains a significant factor in local job stability and state revenue.

The takeaway

By cultivating a network of informed ambassadors, the port authority effectively translates complex maritime logistics into a tangible community resource. This long-term engagement strategy ensures that the public remains aligned with the economic interests of state infrastructure projects.

What happens next

The 2026 State of the Port Address is scheduled to take place in Charleston, providing a future opportunity for the new ambassadors to engage with port leadership.