TTB 2026 draws strong operator turnout despite headwinds

Despite a challenging backdrop that included a partial federal government shutdown, severe weather, and several competing industry events, Marine Log’s Tugs, Towboats & Barges (TTB) 2026 conference drew strong participation from across the inland and coastal maritime sector.

Held in Mobile, Ala., the event brought together vessel owners and operators, shipyards, designers, technology providers, and service companies for two days of discussion focused on the operational, economic, and technological issues shaping the tug, towboat, and barge industry. Attendance from vessel owner and operator companies increased compared with last year’s event, reinforcing the conference’s role as a forum where working operators can exchange perspectives with the broader maritime supply chain.

“Given how hectic things were the day the event kicked off and the many choices people have in which to invest their time and money, we are always very grateful that the tug, towboat, and barge community chooses to attend TTB every year in support of the event and the community at large, said Gary Lynch, Marine Log‘s publisher. “A big ‘thank you’ to all of our attendees, speakers, and sponsors who helped make this year’s TTB a successful experience for all involved.”

Throughout the program, speakers addressed a range of topics—from data-driven insights on the U.S. inland marine market to the economics of vessel design, workforce development, cybersecurity, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence and automation on the river and in coastal waters. While the topics varied, many presentations returned to a common theme: the industry is balancing modernization and new technology with the practical realities of vessel operations, crew training, and capital investment.

Panel discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between vessel operators, designers, shipyards, and technology providers as companies evaluate newbuild strategies and operational upgrades. Other sessions explored how digital tools and automation are beginning to deliver measurable value in areas such as logistics coordination, maintenance planning, and safety systems.

The conference also underscored the continued focus on workforce development, with discussions centered on recruitment, retention, and training as companies work to attract the next generation of mariners and shoreside professionals.

“Putting together the TTB program each year is a real labor of care,” said Heather Ervin, editor in chief of Marine Log magazine and creator of Top Women in Maritime. “The agenda doesn’t always come together easily, and there are always challenges behind the scenes, but the goal is simple: to create conversations that matter to the tug, towboat and barge community. Seeing vessel owners, operators, shipyards, designers and technology providers all engaging with the discussions is what makes the effort worthwhile.”

Marine Log will continue coverage of key discussions and presentations from TTB 2026 in upcoming issues and online.

TTB 2027 returns to Mobile on March 22-23. If you’d like to submit a topic for discussion or offer feedback, please contact Heather Ervin at [email protected]. For sponsorship questions and opportunities, contact David Harkey at [email protected].