On November 20, 2024, Richard J. Hendrick, the CEO of the Port of Albany-Rensselaer, was unanimously elected as Vice Chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) Board during the Annual Convention held in Boston. The AAPA represents 140 seaports across the western hemisphere, and Hendrick's election highlights his leadership and advocacy for maritime gateways [410bef4a].
Hendrick will serve a two-year term in this prestigious role, having previously represented the North Atlantic Region on the AAPA Board and served as President of the North American Port Association. His extensive experience in the maritime industry includes overseeing significant growth and infrastructure investments at the Port of Albany since he joined in 2004 [410bef4a].
Cary S. Davis, President of AAPA, praised Hendrick for his commitment to advancing the interests of ports and the maritime sector. The recent 2024 Port and Maritime Industry Economic Contribution Report indicates that the maritime industry supports approximately 21.8 million American jobs and contributes nearly $2.59 trillion to the national GDP, underscoring the critical role ports play in the economy [410bef4a].
In addition to his new role, Hendrick has been recognized for his environmental efforts, as the Port of Albany recently received its eighth consecutive Green Marine certification. He is also a member of the Board of Commissioners of Pilots of New York and was named to City & State NY’s 2024 Transportation Power 100 list, reflecting his influence and contributions to the transportation sector [410bef4a]. Hendrick has actively participated in industry roundtables in Washington, D.C., further demonstrating his commitment to the maritime industry and its future [410bef4a].