PIANC USA is the United States national section of the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure (PIANC). Since 1902, PIANC USA members have worked alongside global experts to advance maritime and inland waterway development. Together, we contribute groundbreaking innovations in the planning, design, construction, improvement, maintenance, and operation of ports and waterways.
As the voice of the U.S. in this international forum, PIANC USA is committed to sharing expertise, fostering collaboration, and promoting progress across the waterborne transportation sector.
Connect, Collaborate, Contribute
PIANC USA is one of the most engaged national sections within PIANC, with members actively participating in nearly every technical working group and commission. Members have access to a global network of professionals dedicated to solving today’s most pressing challenges in waterborne transport infrastructure.
Membership Benefits Include:
– Direct involvement in international working groups shaping best practices and guidance
– Access to cutting-edge technical publications and reports
– Opportunities to collaborate with experts across the maritime and inland navigation communities
– Invitations to conferences, webinars, and networking events in the U.S. and worldwide
– Contribution to U.S. leadership in global waterborne transport solutions
Get Involved
Check out our recent and upcoming events, including technical workshops, webinars, and major conferences such as the PIANC Americas Conference and Smart Rivers. PIANC USA also provides opportunities for emerging professionals and students through the Young Professionals Commission (YP-Com).
Latest News
Introducing The Vessel: Volume 2, Issue 1
Introducing The Vessel: Volume 2, Issue 1
The latest edition of The Vessel is here! In this issue, we highlight key updates and opportunities across the PIANC community. This quarterly publication will keep you informed about current opportunities, upcoming events, and new members within the PIANC USA community. In our latest edition, highlights include: – Professional growth won’t slow in 2026 – mark your calendar for upcoming PIANC events!– How PIANC’s Young Professionals are transforming into the next generation of leaders.– Hear from PIANC USA leadership, including new Principal RecCom Delegate, Mark Pirrello. Check out The Vessel here Miss out on any previous issues of the PIANC […]
There are currently two open leadership positions for the role of PIANC USA Commissioner and Chair of Financial Commission (FinCom). These positions foster great connection and collaboration between PIANC USA and our international counterparts, as well as between PIANC’s Commissions and Working Groups. Current Vacancies – PIANC USA Commissioner (All Commissions) – Chair of Financial Commission (FinCom). CLICK HERE TO APPLY TODAY TO A CURRENT PIANC USA LEADERSHIP VACANCY!
Smart Rivers 2025 Concludes with Momentum for the Future
Smart Rivers 2025 Concludes with Momentum for the Future
Smart Rivers 2025 Overview From 8-12 September in Memphis, Tennessee, the Smart Rivers 2025 conference brought together a global community of professionals, researchers, stakeholders, and decision-makers to celebrate the world’s navigable rivers. Through engaging discussions and collaborative exchanges, participants addressed key themes such as sustainability, innovation, resilience, and system integration. While the next Smart Rivers conference won’t take place until 2028, we are confident that this gathering will sustain innovative and productive conversations in the inland navigation transportation community for years to come! By the numbers: Smart Rivers 2025 welcomed 350 attending guests, including 150 non-US registrants from 20 countries […]
Young Professionals: Apply to These Career-Building Opportunities!
Young Professionals: Apply to These Career-Building Opportunities!
PIANC De Paepe-Willems Award (DPWA) 2026 �The PIANC De Paepe Willems Award (DPWA) is a prestigious international prize encouraging Young Professionals to submit original technical papers in the field of waterborne transport infrastructure. �Why Apply? ✅ Gain international recognition for your technical paper ✅ Introduce yourself to an international network of experts in your industry ✅ Win a great cash prize and free PIANC membership: • 1st Prize: € 4,000 + 3-year free PIANC membership + travel & 3-night hotel stay to present at the PIANC Annual General Assembly (AGA) • 2nd Prize: € 2,000 + 1-year free PIANC membership • 3rd Prize: […]
We are pleased to announce that, following a decision made at the AGA 2025, PIANC has introduced a brand-new Free Student Membership category. This initiative is designed to broaden access and engagement among students worldwide who are interested in the waterborne transport infrastructure sector. Key details: – All student memberships are now free and valid for a fixed term of 2 years. – Access to PIANC publications is not automatic; students can request them via email at membership@pianc.org. – All other membership benefits, such as event discounts, remain available. – Existing paid student memberships will continue until their expiration date, […]
PIANC MarCom WG213 – ‘Design Guidelines for Marine Multipurpose Terminals’ PIANC has released its landmark Working Group Report No. 213: Design Guidelines for Marine Multipurpose Terminals (MPTs), offering comprehensive technical guidance for the planning and design of terminals that handle diverse cargo types and vessel sizes. Developed by international experts under the Maritime Navigation Commission, the report addresses key aspects such as terminal layout, equipment, environmental sustainability, operational flexibility, and financial frameworks. It includes case studies from various global ports and is particularly valuable for regions undergoing economic transition. This publication serves as a critical resource for stakeholders involved in […]
Strengthening the Civil Engineering Profession through Collaboration
Strengthening the Civil Engineering Profession through Collaboration
In July 2024, PIANC and Civil Engineering Certification, Inc. (CEC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance our collaborative efforts. This partnership aims to advance the civil engineering profession by recognizing each organization’s contributions in advancing the profession and promoting board certification as a means of professional growth. To learn more about how CEC can support your career advancement, visit www.asce.org/certification or contact cec@asce.org. View upcoming PIANC USA events here, and learn how PIANC USA events support your continuing professional education at www.pianc.us/pdh.
