HOUSTON – July 1, 2026 – Blue Sky Maritime Coalition (Blue Sky) today announced the appointment of Rich Byrnes as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a new chapter of leadership as the organization continues to strengthen collaboration and accelerate innovation across the maritime industry.
Byrnes brings extensive leadership experience across the maritime and logistics sectors, with a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, fostering industry partnerships, and delivering measurable impact. In his new role, he will lead the Coalition’s efforts to strengthen member engagement, expand strategic programs, and further its mission to support a more efficient and sustainable maritime ecosystem.
“Rich is a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry,” said David Cummins, current President/CEO of Blue Sky. “His experience, vision, and collaborative approach make him exceptionally well-suited to guide the Coalition into its next chapter. I am confident that under his leadership, Blue Sky will continue to grow its influence and deliver meaningful value to our members and stakeholders.”
Ted Tregurtha, Chair of Blue Sky’s Board of Directors, also welcomed Byrnes. “On behalf of the Board, we are thrilled to welcome Rich Byrnes as President and Chief Executive Officer,” said Tregurtha. “As a member of Blue Sky’s Board of Directors since 2021, Rich’s strategic mindset and passion for industry advancement have brought great value to the Coalition over the years. We thank David Cummins for his dedicated leadership and the strong foundation he has built, and we look forward to working with Rich as we continue to accelerate the Coalition’s impact.”
Byrnes expressed enthusiasm about stepping into the role and building on the organization’s momentum. “I am proud to have been involved in Blue Sky as a member of the Board of Directors since the Coalition’s very beginning. It is an honor to step into this new position and leadership role,” said Byrnes. “The Coalition has established itself as a vital platform for collaboration and innovation in the maritime sector. This is an exciting time for Blue Sky and I look forward to working closely with the Board, members, and partners to expand our initiatives and help shape the future of the industry.”
Byrnes will assume full responsibilities as President and CEO on July 1, 2026.
About Blue Sky Maritime Coalition
Blue Sky Maritime Coalition, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is a strategic alliance formed to accelerate innovation and the transition of waterborne transportation in the United States and Canada toward greater efficiencies, lower costs and emissions, maximum waterborne trade volumes, and ultimately economically sustainable net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. The Coalition brings together industry, government, academia, and other stakeholders across the waterborne transportation value chain to facilitate meaningful discussion and action-oriented projects that remove barriers to accelerating development, encourage innovation, and promote policies in support of net-zero emissions.
Learn more at www.bluesky-maritime.org.
