Virginia Port's New CEO McCoy Discusses Tariffs, Growth, and Advanced Crane Technology

Key Details Sarah McCoy has been permanently promoted to CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority, solidifying her position as one of the nation's emerging port leaders. The 11-year agency veteran and former chief counsel took the helm just weeks after delivering her first State of the Port address in April. Why It Matters McCoy now navigates a complex landscape where geopolitical tensions, tariff discussions, and infrastructure investment directly impact port operations and trucking efficiency. Virginia ranked sixth among U.S. container ports in 2025, handling 3.24 million TEUs annually. Port Competitive Edge During a recent FreightWaves interview, McCoy highlighted the port's newly acquired cranes, which she described as the most unique among American container hubs. This infrastructure advantage positions Virginia to handle growing cargo volumes and address supply chain disruptions. Industry Context As part of the new generation of North American port leadership, McCoy represents strategic thinking during an era where planning and investment are essential to managing chaos and change. Her background in legal and operational matters equips her to address emerging challenges facing U.S. maritime commerce and the trucking industry.