The 39th International Conference on Coastal Engineering (ICCE 2026) in Galveston, Texas

The global coastline is the frontier where human civilization meets the raw, dynamic forces of nature. Today, these regions are facing an unprecedented convergence of challenges: accelerating sea-level rise, intensifying marine storms, rapid urban development, and ecological degradation. Addressing these complex, interconnected issues requires a global community of forward-thinking scientists, researchers, and practitioners.

From May 17–22, 2026, the global coastal engineering community will gather in Galveston, Texas, for the 39th Annual International Conference on Coastal Engineering (ICCE 2026). As the premier event in the field, ICCE 2026 serves as the ultimate platform for knowledge sharing, technological innovation, and collaborative problem-solving.

This year’s conference is about more than just presenting papers; it is a call to action. ICCE 2026 is placing a deliberate spotlight on unique coastal systems facing intense natural and human-induced impacts, while championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)—with a particular focus on empowering women and under-represented groups in STEM.

Whether you are a seasoned coastal engineer, an academic researcher, a policymaker, or a student representing the next generation of talent, ICCE 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of our coasts.

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The Core Mission: Innovation and Global Knowledge Sharing

The primary objective of ICCE 2026 is to foster global knowledge sharing and showcase innovative coastal research and practice. Coastal engineering is no longer just about building heavier seawalls; it is about understanding complex hydrodynamics, sediment transport, and ecological systems to design resilient, sustainable solutions.

Attendees can expect a comprehensive program featuring keynote presentations from world-renowned experts, peer-reviewed technical sessions, panel discussions, and an expansive exhibition hall showcasing the latest technologies in marine instrumentation, numerical modeling, and coastal defense systems.

Key Thematic Areas of ICCE 2026:

• Coastal Hydrodynamics: Wave mechanics, tidal dynamics, storm surges, and tsunami modeling.
• Sediment Transport and Morphology: Beach nourishment, shoreline erosion, estuarine processes, and long-term coastal evolution.
• Coastal Structures: Design, maintenance, and failure analysis of breakwaters, seawalls, ports, and harbors in the face of climate change.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Sea-level rise projections, coastal flooding mitigation, and adaptive management strategies.
• Nature-Based Solutions (NbS): Integrating green infrastructure, such as living shorelines, mangrove restoration, and artificial reefs, with traditional engineering.

Galveston, Texas: A Living Laboratory for Coastal Challenges

There is perhaps no more fitting location for ICCE 2026 than Galveston, Texas. Situated on a barrier island along the Gulf Coast, Galveston represents the crucible of modern coastal engineering challenges and innovations.

Galveston’s history is inextricably linked with coastal resilience. Following the devastating Great Storm of 1900—still the deadliest natural disaster in United States history—the city undertook one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects of its time: constructing the iconic Galveston Seawall and raising the elevation of the entire city.

Today, the Texas Gulf Coast remains at the forefront of the climate battle, grappling with:

• Intense Hurricane Activity: Facing powerful storms like Hurricane Ike (2008) and Hurricane Harvey (2017).
• Severe Subsidence and Erosion: Managing some of the highest rates of relative sea-level rise in North America.
• Industrial and Economic Pressures: Balancing coastal protection with the needs of major economic engines, including the Port of Houston and vital petrochemical infrastructure.

ICCE 2026 attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate in technical field trips to witness these challenges firsthand. From exploring the historic seawall to learning about the massive, multi-billion-dollar Coastal Texas Project (often referred to as the “Ike Dike”)—one of the largest coastal storm risk management projects in U.S. history—Galveston serves as a living laboratory that will inspire meaningful academic and practical discourse.

A Spotlight on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

A defining feature of the 39th Annual Conference is its explicit advocacy for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). The impacts of coastal change are not felt equally; vulnerable, historically marginalized, and under-represented communities are often on the front lines of coastal hazards. To develop equitable solutions, the engineering community must reflect the diversity of the world it seeks to protect.

ICCE 2026 is dedicated to breaking down barriers for under-represented groups, with a special emphasis on women in coastal engineering. While women have made significant strides in STEM fields, engineering remains historically male-dominated, particularly in senior leadership, academic tenure, and industry executive roles.

DEI Initiatives at ICCE 2026 Include:

• Women in Coastal Engineering Forum: Special networking events, mentorship roundtables, and panel discussions highlighting the achievements and addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the industry.
• Geographic and Economic Inclusion: Dedicated pathways and support systems to ensure researchers from developing nations—who are often facing the most immediate threats from climate change—can participate and share their invaluable local insights.
• Inclusive Technical Sessions: Sessions that explore the intersection of coastal engineering and environmental justice, ensuring that engineering solutions benefit all sectors of society.

Developing the Next Generation: Promoting STEM and Youth Engagement

The future of our coastlines depends on the ingenuity of the next generation. ICCE 2026 aims to be a catalyst for young minds, actively promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields and developing young coastal researchers and engineers.

The conference provides an exceptionally welcoming environment for students and early-career professionals. Facing an era of rapid climate shifts, the industry urgently needs fresh perspectives, digital native skills in AI and machine learning, and passionate advocates for sustainability.

Opportunities for Students and Early-Career Professionals:

• Student Paper Awards: Recognition for outstanding research presented by undergraduate and graduate students.
• Career Development Workshops: Sessions focusing on academic publishing, grant writing, navigating the transition from academia to industry, and mastering advanced numerical modeling tools.
• Mentorship Programs: Pairing students with seasoned international experts to foster cross-generational knowledge transfer and career guidance.

How to Participate: Important Dates and Call for Abstracts

ICCE 2026 invites researchers, engineers, practitioners, and policymakers from around the globe to contribute to the technical program. Submissions detailing innovative research, case studies, field measurements, and theoretical advancements are highly encouraged.

Key Timeline (Anticipated):

• Call for Abstracts Opens: Summer/Fall 2024
• Abstract Submission Deadline: Early 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: Summer 2025
• Early Bird Registration Opens: Late 2025
• Conference Dates: May 17–22, 2026

Note: Please check the official conference website regularly for finalized deadlines and specific submission guidelines.

Official Links and Application Portals

To secure your place at the forefront of coastal engineering innovation, explore the official portals below to submit your abstracts, register for the event, or apply for sponsorship opportunities.

• Official Conference Website: Visit the main portal for the latest updates on the program, venue, and keynotes at the Official ICCE 2026 Conference Portal.*
• Abstract Submission Portal: Submit your cutting-edge research and case studies via the ICCE 2026 Abstract Submission Link.*
• Registration Portal: Access early bird rates, student discounts, and group registrations at the ICCE 2026 Official Registration Page.*
• ASCE-COPRI Home: ICCE is organized under the auspices of the Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute (COPRI) of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). For organizational insights and membership advantages, visit the ASCE-COPRI Official Site.*

(Please note: As the conference approaches, specific URL structures may be updated by the organizing committee. If a direct link redirects, navigate through the main ASCE or COPRI conference directory.)

Join Us in Galveston: Fostering Ingenuity, Diversity, and Opportunity

The challenges facing our coastal zones are immense, but they are not insurmountable. By bringing together the brightest minds from every corner of the globe—and ensuring that every voice, regardless of gender or background, is heard—ICCE 2026 will lay the groundwork for a safer, more resilient coastal future.

Join us in Galveston, Texas, from May 17–22, 2026. Bring your expertise, your passion, and your ingenuity. Together, we will advance global coastal knowledge, support the next generation of engineers, and turn the tide against the escalating challenges facing our world’s shorelines.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Lone Star State for an unforgettable week of science, engineering, and community.