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SERAC Conference Opens in Cape Canaveral Highlighting Maritime Growth, Global Challenges

By  //  April 10, 2026

held at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port

The Southeast Region Annual Conference (SERAC) hosted by the Propeller Club of the United States officially got underway Thursday, April 9, with an opening reception at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port. In attendance on Thursday were Costis Frangoulis and Sang Yi. And John Murray. (left to right)

BREVARD COUNTY • PORT CANAVERAL, FLORIDA – The Southeast Region Annual Conference (SERAC) hosted by the Propeller Club of the United States officially got underway Thursday, April 9, with an opening reception at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port.

Southeast Region Vice President Kevin Jobes welcomed attendees, followed by remarks from Bruce Cameron, who greeted participants on behalf of the local chapter.

The conference featured international representation, including Costis Frangoulis, who addressed the audience and emphasized the importance of strengthening global maritime networks. Frangoulis highlighted the growing significance of collaboration among ports and maritime organizations as the industry navigates geopolitical challenges, including disruptions such as the Strait of Hormuz closure.

The Southeast Region Annual Conference (SERAC) hosted by the Propeller Club of the United States officially got underway Thursday, April 9, with an opening reception at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port.

John Murray, CEO of the Canaveral Port Authority, spoke on the continued evolution of Port Canaveral. Murray outlined the port’s transformation from a modest cargo and fishing hub into a major economic engine, now recognized as one of the world’s busiest cruise ports and a leader in liquefied natural gas fueling and space industry recovery operations.

Murray then introduced the evening’s keynote speaker, Sang Yi of the United States Maritime Administration.

Yi discussed the administration’s Maritime Action Plan, which includes initiatives aimed at revitalizing U.S. shipbuilding, expanding the U.S.-flag fleet and Merchant Marine, and strengthening workforce education and training programs.

The Southeast Region Annual Conference (SERAC) hosted by the Propeller Club of the United States officially got underway Thursday, April 9, with an opening reception at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port.

He noted the current level of federal focus on maritime policy is significant, calling it one of the most supportive environments the industry has seen in years.

Yi also stressed the ongoing challenge of raising public awareness about the Merchant Marine and its critical role in both national and economic security, not only in the United States but globally.

The SERAC conference continues through the weekend, bringing together maritime leaders, industry professionals and stakeholders to discuss key issues impacting the future of maritime commerce and infrastructure.